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—however, without it, your furnace can’t function.

In this blog, Verona HVAC will share the key signs of a bad gas valve. Whether you’re dealing with issues or just want more information about how a furnace works, this guide for Santa Clarita, California, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to call the experts at Verona HVAC.

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

To begin, it's important to understand what a furnace gas valve is and what it is responsible for. The furnace gas valve manages 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 won't give off any heat.

Also an important safety feature, the furnace gas valve is supposed to close automatically when an issue arises—preventing a potentially dangerous gas leak. A typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10–20 years. While replacement price can change based on the model of furnace and whether any other components need fixing, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of $300 to $800.

Furnace Not Igniting

One of the signs you may need to replace your furnace gas valve is if the furnace is not igniting or if the pilot light won't light. Gas is what fuels the burner. Without adequate 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 also could be signs of  other mechanical breakdowns, such as a faulty flame sensor, a problem with the thermocouple or a pressure drop in the gas line. If you notice these signs, it's important to call a certified HVAC technician for an inspection. They'll safely determine whether the problem a thermocouple vs gas valve issue, or if there's another reason your furnace won't light.

Gas Leak

One clear sign of a malfunctioning furnace gas valve is a noticeable gas smell in your home. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance problem—it’s an emergency. A gas leak can lead to fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, evacuate the home immediately, call your gas company or 911, and then phone Verona HVAC for emergency furnace repair.

Your Furnace Keeps Starting and Stopping

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling is when a furnace runs in short bursts instead of running a full cycle. This might be occurring because a faulty furnace gas valve can cause inconsistent gas flow. A valve issue also could trigger your furnace to turn off to avoid causing a gas leak.

However, sometimes furnace short cycling has other causes, so it's important to reach out to 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 crucial that you take action immediately.

First, cut off the gas supply to avoid additional danger, then cut power to your furnace. Don’t attempt to repair the valve without a professional. DIY gas valve repair can pose a safety risk and also may void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or malfunctioning in some other way—gas valve repair isn’t a good do-it-yourself task. Besides, when it comes to deciding between gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's usually recommended to replace a gas valve instead of repairing it. 

Call Verona HVAC to Be Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Santa Clarita, California, Winter

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Santa Clarita, California, HVAC company—Verona HVAC. Our trained technicians know exactly what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll identify the problem, perform 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 put your home at risk. Call 661-449-9765 today for gas valve replacement services from Verona HVAC.