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 under appreciated part of your heating system—and without it, your furnace won’t run properly.

In this blog, E.B. Air will highlight the key signs of a bad gas valve. Whether you’re dealing with issues or planning ahead, this guide for East Bernard, Texas, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to call the experts at E.B. Air.

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

First, it's important to know 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, providing the fuel necessary for the combustion process to occur and make heat. If gas isn't flowing, a gas-powered furnace can't make any heat.

Also a key safety feature, the furnace gas valve is designed to close automatically when an issue arises—preventing a potentially deadly gas leak. The typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10–20 years. Although replacement price depends on the model of furnace and if any other components need fixing, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of roughly $300–800.

Your Furnace Won't Ignite

One of the indications 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 what fuels the burner. Without proper gas flow through the system, a furnace can't ignite. Sometimes, homeowners also notice 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 might also indicate  other mechanical issues, such as a bad flame sensor, an issue with the thermocouple or low gas pressure. If you are dealing with these issues, it's important to contact 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 start or the pilot light won't stay lit.

Furnace Smells Like Gas

One serious sign of a malfunctioning furnace gas valve is a noticeable gas smell in your home. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance issue—it’s an urgent safety risk. A gas leak can cause a fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, get everyone out of the building quickly, call your gas company or 911, and then contact E.B. Air 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 instead of going through its full cycle. This might be occurring because a faulty furnace gas valve can cause inconsistent gas flow. The valve failure also could cause your furnace to turn off to avoid creating a gas leak.

At the same time, sometimes furnace short cycling has other causes, 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 stop the flow of gas, then shut down your furnace. Don’t try to fix the valve on your own. DIY gas valve repair can result in dangerous situations if done incorrectly and also has the potential to void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or isn't working for another reason—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 almost always recommended to replace a gas valve instead of repairing it. 

Call E.B. Air to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the East Bernard, Texas, Cold

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional East Bernard, Texas, HVAC company—E.B. Air. Our HVAC experts know just what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll pinpoint what's wrong, handle the gas valve replacement safely and make sure your system is running at peak performance. 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 979-335-4262 today for gas valve replacement services from E.B. Air.