Dealing with a water heater that suddenly stops working can be frustrating, especially when it’s just the pilot light that’s gone out. Luckily, relighting it is usually a simple fix you can handle on your own. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely and efficiently relight your water heater’s pilot light, so you can get back to enjoying hot water in no time.
Safety First
Before attempting to relight your water heater’s pilot light, always turn off the gas supply to prevent gas buildup, which could lead to dangerous leaks or explosions. Proper ventilation is crucial to avoid inhaling gas fumes. Ensure that the area is well-ventilated by opening windows or doors if necessary. Have the necessary tools on hand, including a lighter, long match, or igniter, and a flashlight to help you see the pilot assembly. Taking these precautions ensures a safer and more effective process when working with gas appliances.
Locate the Pilot Light and Controls
To relight the water heater’s pilot light, first locate the gas valve, typically found near the bottom of the unit. It should have settings for “Off,” “Pilot,” and “On.” Turn the valve to “Off” and wait at least five minutes to ensure any residual gas has dissipated.
Next, identify the pilot light assembly, usually positioned behind a small access panel at the bottom of the water heater. This assembly contains the pilot light, thermocouple, and burner. The thermocouple is a safety device that senses if the pilot light is on and shuts off gas flow if it’s not.
Familiarize yourself with the controls on your model, as some may have a separate igniter button, while others require a match or lighter. Understanding these components will help you efficiently relight the pilot and maintain your water heater safely.
Instructions for Relighting the Pilot Light
Relighting the pilot light requires careful attention. First, turn the gas valve to “Off” and wait a few minutes. Then, set the gas valve to “Pilot.”
Next, locate the reset button on your water heater, usually near the gas valve. Press and hold this button while you ignite the pilot light. You can either use the water heater’s built-in igniter (if it has one) or a long lighter if it doesn’t. Keep holding the reset button down after ignition.
Once the pilot is lit, continue holding the button for about 30-60 seconds. This gives the thermocouple time to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open. After releasing the button, check if the pilot light stays lit. If it does, you can turn the gas valve back to “On” and your water heater will begin operating again.
What to Do If the Pilot Light Doesn’t Stay Lit
If your water heater’s pilot light doesn’t stay lit, several issues might be at play. One common cause is a faulty thermocouple, the device responsible for sensing the pilot light’s heat and signaling the gas valve to remain open. If the thermocouple is dirty, misaligned, or broken, it may prevent the gas valve from staying open, causing the pilot light to go out. Another potential issue could be a problem with the gas supply, such as low gas pressure or a malfunction in the gas control valve.
Before trying to relight the water heater’s pilot light again, check for drafts or other factors that might blow out the flame. If none of these quick fixes work, it’s time to call a professional. Continuing to troubleshoot on your own could lead to more significant issues, so contacting a certified technician ensures safety and proper diagnosis of any underlying problems.
Preventing Future Pilot Light Issues
Regular maintenance is key to preventing future pilot light issues and keeping your water heater running smoothly. Start by scheduling routine inspections to check for wear and tear on parts like the thermocouple, pilot light assembly, and gas valve. Cleaning these components, especially the thermocouple, helps ensure the pilot light stays lit. Dust or debris buildup can prevent it from accurately detecting heat, causing it to shut off the gas supply prematurely.
Checking for gas leaks is also crucial. If you ever smell gas, it’s important to immediately turn off the gas supply and avoid using electrical devices or open flames in the area. Gas leaks can lead to dangerous situations, so it’s best to contact a professional right away for repairs.
Finally, make sure that your water heater has proper ventilation, as drafts or insufficient airflow can also cause the pilot light to go out. Regular maintenance will not only prevent future issues but also extend the life of your water heater.
Choose S&B Plumbing for Water Heater Needs
S&B Plumbing specializes in water heater repairs to ensure your hot water is restored quickly and efficiently. Our experienced team can handle everything from fixing pilot lights to addressing more complex issues. In addition to water heaters, S&B Plumbing offers a wide range of services, including pipe repairs, drain cleaning, and garbage disposal installations. Whether it’s a minor fix or a major plumbing emergency, we’re equipped to meet all your plumbing needs. Contact us today to get your service scheduled.
