Knowing when to replace your furnace gas valve is a vital part of keeping your home safe, cozy and energy smart. The gas valve is an often overlooked part of your heating system—but without it, your furnace won’t run properly.

In this blog, B & G HVAC will share the key signs of a bad gas valve. Whether you’re trying to diagnose a suspected problem or just want more information about how a furnace works, this guide for Marshalltown, Iowa, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to contact the professionals at B & G HVAC.

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

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

Also a beneficial safety feature, the furnace gas valve is designed to shut if a problem is detected—preventing a potentially life-threatening gas leak. A typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10 to 20 years on average. While replacement price depends on the kind of furnace and whether any additional repairs are needed, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of $300 to $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 can't ignite. Occasionally, homeowners also report 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 can sometimes be symptoms of  other mechanical breakdowns, such as a faulty flame sensor, an issue with the thermocouple or low gas pressure. If you experience these problems, it's important to call 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 the furnace won't ignite.

Furnace Smells Like Gas

One serious sign of a gas valve problem is a strong odor of gas in your residence. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance issue—it’s an potentially deadly hazard. A gas leak can cause a fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, leave the home right away, call your gas company or 911, and then phone B & G HVAC for emergency furnace repair.

Furnace is Short Cycling

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling is when a furnace turns off and on frequently rather than turning on and continuing through its cycle as usual. This is because a faulty furnace gas valve can cause inconsistent gas flow. The valve malfunction also could trigger your furnace to shut down to avoid causing a gas leak.

However, sometimes furnace short cycling is the result of different underlying issues, so it's important to seek out a professional HVAC technician for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

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

If you suspect your furnace gas valve is broken, it’s crucial that you take action immediately.

First, cut off the gas supply to avoid additional danger, then cut power to your furnace. Don’t try to repair the valve on your own. DIY gas valve repair can pose a safety risk and also has the potential to void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or has some other issue—gas valve work isn’t a task for someone without specialized tools and training. Besides, when it comes to weighing gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's almost always recommended to replace a gas valve instead of fixing the broken one. 

Call B & G HVAC to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Marshalltown, Iowa, Cold

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Marshalltown, Iowa, HVAC company—B & G HVAC. Our experienced professionals know just what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll diagnose the issue, perform the gas valve replacement safely and make sure your furnace is running efficiently again. To save even more power, we can even pair your system with one of our smart thermostats or connect you with furnace installation service to help you replace your aging, inefficient furnace.

Don’t compromise your safety or comfort. Call 641-649-4649 today for gas valve replacement services from B & G HVAC.