Are Furnace Gas Valves Interchangeable? (Find Out Now!)

Many people love to do projects on their own before they contact a professional. Like projects dealing with electricity, if there is doubt, do not do it yourself. Call a professional if you have to change the furnace gas valve if you are unsure of something.

There are many types of valves that work for various purposes. Most valves deal with turning on and off water and gas through the pipes in which they flow. But the question arises, are furnace gas valves interchangeable?

Furnace gas valves are interchangeable if there are two wires seen on the valve. If two or more exist, it is advised to take a picture of the valve and pick up a replacement. If there is a problem you notice with the valve on the furnace, cut the gas off from the mainline.

The furnace fuel system needs a gas valve to control the gas flow from the meter to the unit. Inside the furnace, the gas connections meet at the pilot light. If the valve is on, the pilot light will light up.

If the valve is turned off, then the pilot light will go out. The pilot light is the center of all the heating units. Pilot lights are on all gas-powered boilers or gas-fueled force air furnaces.

Other items with pilot lights, such as fireplaces and hot water tanks, all have valves to control the gas flow. Gas furnaces are simple devices, but if the furnace gas valve goes out, it needs replacement. There are ways to tell if the valve has worn out over time.

The best way to tell if the furnace gas valve still works is through the pilot light. Turn the valve from the on position to the off position. There will be a single click you will hear when the valve is off.

Look for the pilot light to see if it is on or off. If the pilot light is off, then the valve is working correctly. However, if the pilot light is still on, gas is still flowing to the furnace, and the valve needs replacement.

A note to remember in safety is if you live around a noisy area, it may be difficult to hear the click. It is okay to put your ear closer to the valve. It would be best if you never stuck your entire head close to the pilot light area.

If there is any trace of a gas leak, do not get too close to the valve. Inhaling the fumes will knock you unconscious, or worse. Call for assistance immediately and shut the gas off at the meter if you can.

It takes two valves to make up one furnace gas valve, and they are placed in sequence, operating through electromagnets. The first valve, also called the safety valve, goes to the pilot light. The other valve is called the main valve, which allows the gas to burner trays.

A thermopile is the generator of power as it holds the safety valve open. It is also known as the thermocouple as it stays inside the flame of the pilot light. Without this heat, the gas valves are forced closed, cutting off the gas supply to the pilot light.

The thermocouple is the primary safety device that prevents the buildup of gas inside the home. The thermopile is also a 24 VAC transformer that powers the mainline and valve. The valve setups are all designed to detect problems and cut off the main furnace gas valve if something happens.

The valves are controlled by the thermostat, which tells the system it needs to kick on or off. The furnace gas valves will open when the heater kicks on and close when the heater turns off.

The average price to get the furnace gas valve replaced is $350 to $600. There are a few things that can determine the cost. The price for the part ranges from $70 to $400, depending on which valve is purchased.

You can interchange the valves only if there are two wires on the valve. If there are more than two, you will need a different type other than what is on the lines. This also affects the price of the parts required.

An HVAC company can charge different rates which are undetermined. It depends on the season and the area the job is located. The make and model is also another factor.