How to Fix a Water Heater Pilot Light

How to Fix a Water Heater Pilot Light

One of the most common issues homeowners face with gas water heaters is a pilot light that won’t stay lit or has gone out. This can leave you without hot water and wondering what to do next. Fortunately, relighting a pilot light is a straightforward process that most homeowners can do themselves with a few basic tools and some safety precautions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to relight a water heater pilot light, troubleshoot common problems, and know when to call a professional.

Understanding the Pilot Light System

The pilot light is a small, continuously burning flame that ignites the main burner in your gas water heater. It’s essential for the heater to function properly. The pilot light is controlled by a gas valve, which regulates the flow of gas to both the pilot and the main burner. The system also includes a thermocouple or thermopile, which is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Flashlight
• Long-reach lighter or match
• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Emery cloth or sandpaper
• Soap and water (for leak testing)

Step-by-Step Guide to Relighting the Pilot Light

1. Turn Off the Gas Supply
   Locate the gas shut-off valve near the water heater and turn it to the “Off” position. This is a crucial safety step to prevent gas leaks.
2. Wait for Gas to Dissipate
   Wait at least 5 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate. This reduces the risk of explosion when you attempt to relight the pilot.
3. Locate the Pilot Light Assembly
   Remove the access panel on the front of the water heater to expose the burner and pilot light assembly. The pilot light is usually located near the bottom of the heater.
4. Set the Gas Control Valve to “Pilot”
   Turn the gas control valve to the “Pilot” position. This allows gas to flow to the pilot light but not to the main burner.
5. Press and Hold the Pilot Button
   Press and hold the pilot button (or knob) while simultaneously using a long-reach lighter or match to ignite the pilot light. Keep holding the button for about 30-60 seconds after the pilot lights to allow the thermocouple to heat up.
6. Release the Button and Check the Flame
   Release the button and check to see if the pilot light stays lit. If it does, turn the gas control valve to the “On” position. If it goes out, repeat the process.
7. Replace the Access Panel
   Once the pilot light is lit and stable, replace the access panel and turn the gas supply back on.

Troubleshooting Common Pilot Light Problems

If the pilot light won’t stay lit, there are several potential causes to investigate:

• Dirty or Faulty Thermocouple
  The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. If it’s dirty or faulty, it may not sense the pilot flame and will shut off the gas. Clean the thermocouple with emery cloth or sandpaper, or replace it if necessary.
• Weak Pilot Flame
  A weak pilot flame may not be strong enough to heat the thermocouple. Check for obstructions in the pilot tube and clean it if needed.
• Gas Supply Issues
  Ensure the gas supply is turned on and that there are no leaks in the gas line. Use soap and water to check for bubbles around connections.
• Defective Gas Control Valve
  If the gas control valve is defective, it may not allow gas to flow to the pilot light. This is a more complex issue that may require professional repair or replacement.

Replacing the Thermocouple

If cleaning the thermocouple doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to replace it. Here’s how:

1. Turn Off the Gas Supply
   As always, start by turning off the gas supply and waiting for any residual gas to dissipate.
2. Remove the Access Panel
   Remove the access panel to expose the burner and pilot light assembly.
3. Disconnect the Thermocouple
   Locate the thermocouple and disconnect it from the gas control valve. It’s usually held in place by a nut or screw.
4. Remove the Old Thermocouple
   Remove the old thermocouple from the pilot light assembly.
5. Install the New Thermocouple
   Insert the new thermocouple into the pilot light assembly and reconnect it to the gas control valve.
6. Relight the Pilot Light
   Follow the steps above to relight the pilot light and ensure it stays lit.

Safety Precautions

• Always turn off the gas supply before working on the water heater.
• Wait at least 5 minutes after turning off the gas to allow any residual gas to dissipate.
• Use a long-reach lighter or match to ignite the pilot light to avoid burns.
• Check for gas leaks using soap and water before turning the gas supply back on.
• If you smell gas at any point, leave the area immediately and call a professional.

When to Call a Professional

While most pilot light issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, there are times when it’s best to call a professional:

• If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and call a professional.
• If the pilot light won’t stay lit after multiple attempts, there may be a more serious issue with the gas control valve or other components.
• If you’re not comfortable working with gas appliances, it’s always best to call a licensed professional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why won’t my water heater pilot light stay lit?

A pilot light that won’t stay lit is usually caused by a dirty or faulty thermocouple, a weak pilot flame, or a gas supply issue. Cleaning or replacing the thermocouple often resolves the problem.

How often should I clean the thermocouple?

It’s a good idea to clean the thermocouple whenever you notice pilot light issues or as part of routine maintenance every 1-2 years.

Can I relight the pilot light if I smell gas?

No, if you smell gas, leave the area immediately and call a professional. Do not attempt to relight the pilot light.

What should I do if the pilot light keeps going out?

If the pilot light keeps going out, check for obstructions in the pilot tube, clean or replace the thermocouple, and ensure the gas supply is adequate. If the problem persists, call a professional.

Is it safe to relight the pilot light myself?

Yes, it’s safe to relight the pilot light yourself as long as you follow proper safety precautions and know what to do if you smell gas.

Conclusion

Relighting a water heater pilot light is a simple task that can save you time and money. By understanding the pilot light system, following the step-by-step guide, and taking proper safety precautions, you can keep your water heater running smoothly. If you encounter persistent issues or are unsure about any step, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.