Heating Troubleshooting
Gas Furnace Won’t Ignite?
Tampa cold snaps arrive suddenly (30°F nights in Jan/Feb). If your gas furnace won’t ignite, here’s what to check first and what to call a tech for.
Quick Answer
Furnace won’t ignite in Tampa = 4 causes: (1) pilot light out (gas tanks), (2) thermocouple/thermopile failure, (3) failed gas control valve, or (4) igniter failure (newer electronic ignition units). Relight pilot per manufacturer sticker first. If won’t stay lit: thermocouple replacement $279. Gas control valve $299. Igniter $279-$399. If gas smell: LEAVE and call gas company + us. Call (813) 343-2212.
4 Causes of Won’t-Ignite Furnace
Pilot Light Out
Symptom: Older gas furnace, pilot light window dark.
Follow relight sticker on unit. If won’t stay lit: thermocouple issue ($279).
Failed Thermocouple/Thermopile
Symptom: Pilot lights but immediately goes out when you release the button.
Pilot/thermopile assembly replacement $279.
Failed Gas Control Valve
Symptom: No gas to burners even with pilot lit, or clicking without ignition.
Gas control valve replacement $299.
Failed Igniter (Electronic Ignition)
Symptom: Newer furnaces with no pilot light. Clicks but no flame.
Hot surface igniter replacement $279-$399.
What to Do Right Now
- Check thermostat: set to HEAT, temperature above room temp.
- Check breaker: reset if tripped.
- For gas: check pilot. Relight per manufacturer instructions.
- If GAS SMELL: leave the house. Call TECO: 813-275-3700 + us.
- Call Home Therapist for any unresolved issue.
Thermocouple: $279. Gas control valve: $299. Igniter: $279-$399. Full furnace replacement: $6,000-$12,000 — usually not needed for ignition issues.
FAQ
Can I light the pilot myself?
Yes — follow the sticker on your unit. If pilot won’t stay lit after release of the pilot button, thermocouple is failing.
Gas smell during relight?
Brief whiff when opening pilot valve: normal. Ongoing gas smell: STOP, leave the house, call gas company. Don’t operate switches.
Why does it cycle pilot on/off?
Likely thermocouple has weak output. Works enough to start but fails safety check. $279 fix.
Is my furnace too old?
Furnaces 20+ years old can have parts shortages. If a major part fails, replacement ($6,000-$12,000) often wins.
Tampa doesn't get that cold — do I need this fixed fast?
When cold snap hits at 30°F for a few nights, you’ll wish you’d fixed it. Yes, get it fixed before next cold forecast.
Need Help With a furnace that won’t ignite?
Same-day Tampa Bay service. $279 minimum labor includes diagnostic. (813) 343-2212.