Here’s one: relighting the pilot light on your furnace.

First you’ll have to remove the access panel on your furnace. Once you have the panel removed and set aside, locate the gas control knob. Have your long fireplace matches ready. Turn the knob to “pilot.” Press and hold the “pilot” knob down while you use one of the matches to light the pilot. Keep the knob depressed for thirty seconds before releasing. If the pilot stays lit, turn the knob to the “on” position, replace the access panel, and you’re done! Here’s a helpful video going into much greater depth covering all the furnace components involved, as well as a bonus video on lighting a pilot on a water heater.

If the pilot won’t light or stay lit the pilot nozzle (where the gas comes out and the flame lights) is more than likely obstructed and will need to be cleaned. Be sure the gas is turned off and use a wire brush to clean away accumulated dirt and residue.

If the flame is yellow or blue, not enough or too much oxygen, respectively, is reaching the burner. You will have to adjust the burner control to obtain a flame that is light bluish on the outside and green on the inside.

Here’s to a safe and happy New Year! Happy Holidays to our Northwest Indiana family, friends, and neighbors.