Understanding when to replace your furnace gas valve is a critical part of keeping your home comfortable, protected and cost-effective. The gas valve is an often overlooked part of your heating system—and without it, your furnace can’t function.

In this blog, North Mechanical Heating and Cooling will break down the key signs of a broken gas valve. Whether you’re dealing with issues or thinking proactively, this guide for Payson, Arizona, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to call the experts at North Mechanical Heating and Cooling.

What is a Furnace Gas Valve and Why is It Important?

To begin, it's important to know what a furnace gas valve is and what it controls. The furnace gas valve regulates the flow of natural gas or propane into the unit's burner assembly, allowing the combustion process to occur and make heat. If gas can't flow, a gas-powered furnace can't make any heat.

Also an important safety feature, the furnace gas valve is engineered to cut off gas flow in the event of a mechanical issue—preventing a potentially deadly gas leak. The typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10–20 years. Though replacement price varies depending on the type of furnace and if any additional repairs are needed, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of between $300 and $800.

The Furnace Won't Light

One of the signs it could be time to replace your furnace gas valve is if the furnace is not igniting or if the pilot light won't light. Gas is the energy source for combustion. Without proper gas flow through the system, a furnace won’t start up. Occasionally, homeowners also hear that the igniter clicks but there's no flame.

However, a furnace not igniting or a pilot light that won't light or stay lit also could be signs of  other mechanical breakdowns, such as a faulty flame sensor, an issue with the thermocouple or insufficient fuel supply. If you experience these problems, it's important to contact a certified HVAC technician for an inspection. They'll accurately assess whether the problem a thermocouple vs gas valve issue, or if there's another reason your furnace won't start or the pilot light won't stay lit.

Furnace Smells Like Gas

One clear sign of a gas valve problem is a strong odor of gas in your residence. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance concern—it’s an potentially deadly hazard. A gas leak can create a fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, evacuate the home immediately, call your gas company or 911, and then reach out to North Mechanical Heating and Cooling for emergency furnace repair.

Furnace Keeps Short Cycling

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling is when a furnace turns off and on frequently instead of going through its full cycle. This might be occurring because a faulty furnace gas valve can cause inconsistent gas flow. A valve failure also could cause your furnace to shut down to prevent creating a gas leak.

However, sometimes furnace short cycling has other causes, so it's important to seek out a licensed furnace specialist for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

What to Do If Your Furnace Gas Valve Isn't Working?

If you think your furnace gas valve has malfunctioned, it’s critical to take the situation seriously.

First, cut off the gas supply to prevent any further risk, then cut power to your furnace. Don’t attempt to repair the valve without a professional. DIY gas valve repair can create a deadly gas leak if not done right and also could void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or has some other issue—gas valve repair isn’t a DIY job. Plus, when it comes to weighing gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's almost always recommended to replace a gas valve instead of repairing it. 

Call North Mechanical Heating and Cooling to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Payson, Arizona, Cold

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Payson, Arizona, HVAC company—North Mechanical Heating and Cooling. Our HVAC experts know exactly what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll identify the problem, handle the gas valve replacement safely and ensure your system is running smoothly. To save even more power, we can even pair your system with one of our smart thermostats or offer furnace installation service to help you replace your old, unsafe furnace.

Don’t delay critical repairs. Call 928-263-6494 today for gas valve replacement services from North Mechanical Heating and Cooling.