The Bryant Plus 90 furnace is a popular heating system known for its reliability and efficiency. However, like all gas furnaces, it depends on a properly functioning pilot light to ignite the burner and provide warmth. If the pilot light goes out, the furnace won’t operate, leading to discomfort during cold seasons. This article provides comprehensive, step-by-step guidance on safely troubleshooting and relighting the Bryant Plus 90 furnace pilot light, along with maintenance tips to prevent future issues.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Causes for Pilot Light Outage | Drafts, dirt buildup, faulty thermocouple, gas supply interruption |
| Safety Precautions | Turn off gas, avoid open flames, check for gas smells |
| Relighting Procedure | Locate pilot assembly, turn gas valve to pilot, ignite pilot, hold valve |
| Maintenance Tips | Regular cleaning, inspection of thermocouple, checking gas pressure |
Common Reasons the Bryant Plus 90 Furnace Pilot Light Goes Out
The pilot light on a Bryant Plus 90 furnace may extinguish due to several factors. Drafts or strong airflow can blow out the flame, especially if the furnace is placed near doors or vents. Accumulated dirt and debris around the pilot assembly can prevent proper ignition. A worn or damaged thermocouple—the safety device that senses the flame—can fail to keep the gas valve open. Additionally, interruptions in the gas supply due to valve issues or utility service problems can cause the pilot light to go out.
Safety Precautions Before Attempting to Relight
Safety is paramount when working with gas furnaces. Before relighting the pilot, ensure the gas valve is in the off position and allow gas to clear from the combustion area to avoid fire hazards. Detect any gas odors around the furnace; if you smell gas, do not proceed and immediately call a professional or your gas provider. Work in a well-ventilated area and keep open flames or sparks away from the furnace until the pilot is lit and stable.
Step-by-Step Guide to Relight the Bryant Plus 90 Furnace Pilot Light
Locate the Pilot Light Assembly and Gas Valve
Open the furnace access panel to locate the pilot light assembly. This typically includes a small burner tube, a gas supply valve, and the thermocouple sensor. The valve usually has settings labeled Off, Pilot, and On.
Turn the Gas Valve to the Pilot Position
Ensure the main gas valve is set to “Off.” Wait 5-10 minutes for residual gas to dissipate, then turn the valve to “Pilot.”
Ignite the Pilot Light
Press and hold down the pilot button or knob to allow gas to flow. While holding, use a long lighter or match to ignite the pilot flame carefully. The flame should be steady and blue, surrounding the thermocouple.
Hold the Pilot Button to Stabilize Flame
Continue holding the pilot button for 20-30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open. Slowly release the button; if the pilot remains lit, proceed to the next step.
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Turn the Gas Valve to On and Close the Access Panel
Once the pilot is steady, turn the gas valve from “Pilot” to “On.” Replace and secure the furnace access panel. The furnace should now ignite when the thermostat calls for heat.
Troubleshooting Persistent Pilot Light Issues
If the pilot light continues to go out, inspect the thermocouple for wear or damage. Cleaning the tip with fine steel wool can improve heat sensing. A faulty thermocouple typically requires replacement. Also, check that the pilot orifice is clean and free of debris to ensure proper gas flow. Persistent drafts should be addressed by sealing gaps or repositioning the furnace. When uncertain, consulting a licensed HVAC technician is advisable.
Regular Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Bryant Plus 90 Furnace Pilot Light Reliable
- Annual Cleaning: Remove dust and soot buildup from the pilot assembly and burner to ensure optimal flame quality.
- Thermocouple Inspection: Periodically check the thermocouple for corrosion or misalignment.
- Gas Pressure Checks: Correct gas pressure ensures consistent flame and operation; a professional can verify this.
- Ventilation Verification: Ensure the furnace area is well-ventilated to prevent drafts that might extinguish the pilot.
- System Tune-Up: Schedule yearly furnace inspections to detect and correct minor issues before they become major problems.
Understanding the Role of the Thermocouple in Bryant Plus 90 Furnace
The thermocouple is a key safety component that detects the pilot light’s flame. It generates a small electrical current when heated by the flame, signaling the gas valve to remain open. A defective thermocouple will fail to maintain the gas flow, causing the pilot light to shut off and disabling the furnace. Replacing the thermocouple is a common fix and restores safe operation.
When to Contact a Professional HVAC Technician
While many pilot light issues can be resolved with careful troubleshooting, certain situations require expert intervention. Call a licensed HVAC technician if:
- You detect a strong gas smell near the furnace.
- The pilot light will not stay lit despite following relighting procedures.
- Repeated pilot outages occur with no apparent cause.
- You are uncomfortable or unsure about handling gas appliances safely.
Professionals can perform in-depth diagnostics, repair or replace faulty parts, and ensure your Bryant Plus 90 furnace operates safely and efficiently throughout the heating season.