Understanding when to replace your furnace gas valve is a critical part of keeping your home safe, warm and energy efficient. The gas valve is an often overlooked part of your heating system—but without it, your furnace can’t function.

In this blog, Miller Climate Control LLC will share the key signs of a bad gas valve. Whether you’re troubleshooting a potential problem or thinking proactively, this guide for Georgetown, Texas, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and how to reach out to the trusted team at Miller Climate Control LLC.

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

To start, it's important to know what a furnace gas valve is and what it is responsible for. The furnace gas valve regulates the flow of natural gas or propane into the unit's burner assembly, enabling the combustion process to occur and produce heat. If gas can't flow, a gas-powered furnace won't give off any heat.

Also a beneficial safety feature, the furnace gas valve is supposed to cut off gas flow in the event of a mechanical issue—preventing a potentially dangerous gas leak. The typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10–20 years. Though replacement price can change based on the kind of furnace and whether any additional repairs are needed, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of roughly $300–800.

The Furnace Won't Light

One of the indications 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 the energy source for combustion. Without enough gas flow through the system, a furnace won’t start up. Sometimes, 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, a malfunction in the thermocouple or insufficient fuel supply. If you notice these signs, 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 your furnace won't start or the pilot light won't stay lit.

Gas Smell Coming from Furnace

One serious sign of a gas valve problem is a strong odor of gas coming from your furnace. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance issue—it’s an emergency. 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 Miller Climate Control LLC for emergency furnace repair.

Furnace Keeps Short Cycling

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling describes when a furnace runs in short bursts instead of going through its full cycle. This is because a faulty furnace gas valve can cause inconsistent gas flow. A valve malfunction also could trigger your furnace to power off to avoid creating a gas leak.

However, sometimes furnace short cycling has other causes, so it's important to reach out to a qualified heating expert for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

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

If you believe your furnace gas valve has malfunctioned, it’s crucial that you take action immediately.

First, cut off the gas supply to stop the flow of gas, then cut power to your furnace. Don’t attempt to repair the valve on your own. DIY gas valve repair can create a deadly gas leak if not done right and also has the potential to void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or malfunctioning in some other way—gas valve work isn’t a task for someone without specialized tools and training. Besides, when it comes to comparing options between gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's usually recommended to replace a gas valve instead of fixing it. 

Call Miller Climate Control LLC to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Georgetown, Texas, Cold

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Georgetown, Texas, HVAC company—Miller Climate Control LLC. Our experienced professionals 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 furnace is running at peak performance. To save even more power, we can even match your system with one of our smart thermostats or connect you with furnace installation service to help you replace your old, unsafe furnace.

Don’t put your home at risk. Call 512-379-6873 today for gas valve replacement services from Miller Climate Control LLC.