Knowing 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 ignored part of your heating system—but without it, your furnace won’t run properly.

In this blog, Pepper AC & Heat will break down 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 Justin, Texas, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to call the experts at Pepper AC & Heat.

What is a Furnace Gas Valve and How Long Does It Last?

To start, it's important to know what a furnace gas valve is and what it controls. The furnace gas valve manages 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 an important safety feature, the furnace gas valve is designed to cut off gas flow in the event of a mechanical issue—preventing a potentially life-threatening gas leak. A 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 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 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 issues, such as a bad flame sensor, a problem 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 clear sign of a malfunctioning furnace gas valve is a gas smell coming from your furnace. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance problem—it’s an urgent safety risk. A gas leak can cause a fire, explosion or even carbon monoxide poisoning. If you smell gas, get everyone out of the building quickly, call your gas company or 911, and then contact Pepper AC & Heat for emergency furnace repair.

Furnace is Short Cycling

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling describes 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 result in inconsistent gas flow. A valve failure also could trigger your furnace to shut down to prevent causing a gas leak.

At the same time, sometimes furnace short cycling has other causes, so it's important to reach out to a professional HVAC technician for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

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

If you suspect your furnace gas valve is broken, it’s critical to take the situation seriously.

First, turn off the gas supply to stop the flow of gas, then cut power to your furnace. Don’t try to fix 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 isn't working for another reason—gas valve repair isn’t a task for someone without specialized tools and training. In addition, 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 repairing it. 

Call Pepper AC & Heat to Be Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Justin, Texas, Chill

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Justin, Texas, HVAC company—Pepper AC & Heat. Our experienced professionals know just what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll diagnose the issue, handle the gas valve replacement safely and ensure your furnace is running efficiently again. 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 aging, inefficient furnace.

Don’t put your home at risk. Call 940-305-6803 today for gas valve replacement services from Pepper AC & Heat.