36C03-300 – FURNACE GAS VALVE (STANDING, FAST, 1/2″ x 3/4″)

If your furnace won’t ignite and you’ve ruled out the ignitor and flame sensor, the gas valve may need replacement. This standing pilot gas valve is a fast-opening type used on older furnaces with a continuously burning pilot light.

Specs: 24V, fast-opening, 1/2″ x 3/4″ NPT, adjustable regulator, natural gas/LP compatible

Replaces: 36C03-300

Fits: Older standing pilot furnaces from various brands using a 1/2″ x 3/4″ NPT fast-opening valve

Need help? See our Furnace Not Heating Guide.

In stock at Open To Public HVAC Parts in Dallas. We test parts at the counter before you buy. Call or text (214) 340-9421.

Specs

• TypeWhite-Rodgers 36-series gas valve
• StagingStanding pilot (single-stage)
• Opening SpeedFast-open
• Pipe Connection1/2" x 3/4"
• Coil Voltage24V AC
• Gas TypeNatural Gas (NG); LP conversion kit available
• OEM CompatibilityWhite-Rodgers

Cross-reference numbers

This part replaces the following OEM and aftermarket numbers:

• 36C03-300

Not sure if your number matches? Call (214) 340-9421 or bring the old part in — bench-testing is free.

Fits these models

• Standing-pilot gas valve -- direct factory replacement for older residential gas furnaces using a thermocouple-and-pilot ignition system
• Common applications: 1970s-2000s gas furnaces from Rheem / Ruud, Goodman, Lennox, Carrier / Bryant, York / Coleman with standing-pilot ignition
• Match model number, pipe inlet/outlet thread sizes, and gas type (NG vs LP -- needs conversion kit). VR8200 vs VR8204 vs 36C03 are different platforms with different regulators -- verify before installing.

My pilot light won't stay lit -- is the valve bad?

Probably not yet. Replace the thermocouple FIRST -- a clean new thermocouple generates 25-30 mV to hold the pilot solenoid open; a tired one generates less and the solenoid drops out, killing the pilot. If a fresh thermocouple doesn't fix it, the pilot section of the valve itself is bad and you replace the valve.

My pilot stays lit but the burners won't come on -- is the valve bad?

Check for 24V at the valve coil terminals during a heat call (thermostat calling, limits closed). If 24V is present and the main burners still don't light, the valve's main solenoid is bad -- replace the valve. If there's no 24V, the problem is upstream (thermostat, limit switch, transformer, control wiring).

How do I install a thermocouple?

Shut off gas at the manual valve. Unscrew the thermocouple at the gas-valve end (1/4" wrench, careful not to strip), back the bracket out of the pilot assembly, install the new one with the tip extending about 1/2" into the pilot flame. Re-light pilot per the unit's instructions -- should stay lit within 30-60 seconds once the thermocouple heats.

NG to LP conversion?

Standing-pilot valves can usually convert with an LP kit (different regulator spring + pilot orifice + main jets). Burning LP through an NG-set valve causes sooting, CO production, and flame impingement. Get the kit before installing.

How long does a standing-pilot gas valve last?

20+ years typical. Thermocouples last 3-7 years and are the most common "bad valve" call -- try that first.