When you walk into the shower, you count on the water to get nice and hot fast. If an icy shower greets you instead, you know something’s amiss. The typical reason behind this uncomfortable, chilly surprise is a water heater pilot light that’s gone out.
Don’t worry—relighting a water heater pilot doesn’t require specialized skills. Follow the easy, step-by-step strategies from the pros at Service Experts outlined below, and you’ll soon be back to delighting in those hot showers.
Ways You Can Easily Light a Water Heater Pilot Light
First, read the user’s manual for your water heater model. Instructions vary, and you should see all the details you need in the manual. If you don't have the paper copy that came with the installation, look up the model number online to pull up a digital version. Nevertheless, the following strategies should apply for most gas water heaters:
- Find the gas shut-off valve, which you'll usually find plainly marked on the lower front part of your water heater. Switch this knob to the “Off” position and wait for five to 10 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate.
- Open the pilot light access cover or door, which is commonly found beneath the gas valve. Sometimes, there isn’t a door; instead, you may see the pilot light burner if you look in a small opening.
- Get a flashlight or headlamp. Next, peer into the pilot light access and locate two small gas tubes leading to the burner. Monitor this area as you proceed with lighting the water heater pilot.
- Switch the gas knob to “Pilot.” This action lets the gas flow, readying the pilot light for ignition. Some units have a designated red button for pilot mode, which you should press and hold.
- Relight the pilot light while still holding down the gas knob or button. Your home's water heater could have an igniter button, often red or black. If not, you’ll need a long lighter to light the pilot manually.
- Push down the gas knob or button for approximately 30 to 60 seconds after the flame catches. Ensure the flame stays lit.
- Rotate the gas knob to “On.” You should hear a whump or whoosh sound as the main burner fires up and your water heater sparks back to life.
- Replace the access cover or door. Give your water heater about 20 to 60 minutes to reheat the water, and you’ll be ready to enjoy that hot shower!
A Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit?
Needing to relight the pilot every once in a while is usually not a major cause for concern. Unfortunately, there could be a more severe underlying issue if the water heater pilot light refuses to stay lit. Some common reasons behind this issue are:
- Damaged thermocouple: The thermocouple is an automatic safety shut-off, shutting off gas flow when the pilot light is out. If this component is misaligned, dirty or damaged, you may face frequent pilot light issues. Reposition the thermocouple just a tiny bit and try lighting the pilot once more. If that doesn’t work, you could possibly need to clean it. And if that proves ineffective, it could be necessary to replace the thermocouple, an easy task for a professional technician.
- Dirty pilot opening: If your pilot light produces a yellow flame, it’s likely due to a dirty pilot opening. This can restrict the thermocouple’s operation, causing pilot light instability.
- Weak or faulty gas regulator: Issues with this component might lead to an inadequate gas supply needed to maintain the pilot light. If several gas appliances in your dwelling have similar issues, check the regulator.
- Breezy conditions: Water heaters often share a utility closet with the furnace, which requires fresh air to function properly. Stiff drafts from this air intake can blow out a water heater pilot light.
Got the Pilot Light Lit? Let Service Experts Keep it That Way!
If you’re still having problems with your water heater pilot light in the U.S, contact Service Experts. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, helpful solutions to all your comfort troubles. Everything we do is backed by a Service Experts Guarantee, so if you’re not pleased with our efforts, we’ll work to make it right. We are leaders in innovation and customer support, with strong community involvement that demonstrates our commitment to your comfort. Call (866) 963-7996 today to reach the professional staff at Service Experts. We're ready to make a meaningful difference in your life, one hot shower at a time.
