If your water heater pilot light has gone out, don’t worry! Relighting a pilot light is often a simple task that you can do yourself with a little guidance. In this article, we’ll walk you through the reasons why your pilot light might go out, how to relight it, and how to troubleshoot common problems.
Why Did My Water Heater Pilot Light Go Out?Before we dive into relighting the pilot light, it’s important to understand why it went out in the first place. Common causes include:
Follow these steps to safely relight your water heater’s pilot light:
Before doing anything, make sure there’s no gas leak. If you smell gas, immediately turn off the gas valve, leave your home, and contact your gas company. Do not attempt to relight the pilot light if you suspect a leak.
Locate the gas control valve on your water heater. Turn it to the "Off" position and wait at least 5-10 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate.
The pilot light is typically located near the bottom of the water heater. You will see a burner and a small valve labeled "Pilot." Consult your owner’s manual if you’re having trouble locating it.
Turn the gas control knob to the "Pilot" position. This setting allows gas to flow only to the pilot light.
Using a long lighter or match, press down the "Pilot" button on the gas valve and hold it. Ignite the pilot. Continue holding the button for 30-60 seconds to ensure the thermocouple heats up and recognizes the flame.
Once the pilot is lit, release the button and turn the gas control valve back to the "On" position. You should now hear the burner ignite, and your water heater should begin heating up.
After relighting the pilot, observe it for a few minutes to ensure it stays lit. If it goes out again, you may have a problem with the thermocouple, gas supply, or another component that needs professional attention.
If the pilot light won’t stay lit, the thermocouple could be faulty. The thermocouple may need to be cleaned or replaced, as it plays a critical role in keeping the gas valve open while the pilot is lit.
If no gas is reaching the pilot light, it could be due to a gas valve issue. You should ensure the valve is open and functioning properly. In some cases, the problem may lie in the gas regulator or supply line.
A weak flame can occur if the pilot tube is clogged with dirt or debris. Cleaning the tube carefully with a small brush or compressed air can help improve the flame.
While relighting the pilot light is often a DIY task, certain issues require professional intervention. If your water heater pilot light continues to go out or you’re experiencing other problems, it may be time to call a licensed technician. SAV WATER HEATERS offers water heater repair services to troubleshoot and fix any issues you’re facing.
To prevent future problems, regular maintenance of your water heater is essential. This includes keeping the area around the water heater clean and ensuring the venting system is clear. SAV WATER HEATERS also provides routine water heater maintenance to ensure your system runs efficiently and safely.
Relighting a water heater pilot light is straightforward when you know the right steps. However, if you encounter issues like the pilot light not staying lit or no gas flow, it’s best to consult a professional. Proper maintenance of your water heater can prevent these problems and ensure it lasts for years. Contact SAV WATER HEATERS for any water heater services you may need!
If you need water heater services, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you with all of your water heater needs. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment or to learn more about our services. We look forward to working with you!