How to Re-Light a Home Water Heater Pilot Light

When you get into the shower, you count on the water to get nice and hot within a few seconds. If a freezing rain greets you instead, you know something’s amiss. The typical root cause behind this uncomfortable, chilly surprise is a water heater pilot light that’s gone out.

Don’t worry—relighting your pilot doesn’t require specialized skills. Follow the easy, step-by-step plan from the pros at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing laid out below, and you’ll soon be back to enjoying those hot showers.

Steps to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light

First things first, read the user’s manual for your water heater model. Instructions differ from brand to brand, and you should get the information you need in the manual. If you don’t have the original copy that came with the water heater, look up the model number online to pull up a digital version. Nevertheless, the following steps should apply for most gas water heaters:

  1. Locate the gas shut-off valve, which typically is plainly marked on the lower front part of your water heater. Move this knob to the “Off” position and wait for five to 10 minutes to let any lingering gas to dissipate.
  2. Open the pilot light access cover or door, which is commonly found beneath the gas valve. On occasion, there isn’t a door; instead, you could possibly see the pilot light burner if you look in a small opening.
  3. Get a flashlight or headlamp. After that, peer into the pilot light access and look for two small gas tubes leading to the burner. Watch this spot as you continue with lighting the water heater pilot.
  4. Switch the gas knob to “Pilot.” This motion lets the gas flow, prepping the pilot light for ignition. Some units have a designated red button for pilot mode, which you should press and hold.
  5. Relight the pilot light while still holding down the gas knob or button. Your home’s water heater may have an igniter button, frequently red or black. If your water heater does not, you’ll need a long lighter to light the pilot by hand.
  6. Hold down the gas knob or button for approximately 30 to 60 seconds after the flame sparks. Ensure the flame stays lit. 
  7. Rotate the gas knob to “On.” You should hear a whump or whoosh sound as the main burner ignites and your water heater roars back to life.
  8. Put the access cover or door back on. Give your water heater approximately 20 to 60 minutes to reheat the water, and you’ll be able to enjoy that hot shower!

a Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit?

Needing to relight the pilot from time to time is usually not a major cause for concern. However, there could be a more serious underlying issue if the water heater pilot light won’t stay lit. Some frequent reasons behind this issue are:

  • Damaged thermocouple: The thermocouple is an automatic safety shut-off, shutting off gas flow when the pilot light isn’t on. If this feature is misaligned, dirty or damaged, you may face frequent pilot light problems. Reposition the thermocouple a little bit and try lighting the pilot again. If that doesn’t get the job done, you could possibly need to clean it. And if that proves unproductive, it could be necessary to replace the thermocouple, a very basic task for a licensed technician.
  • Dirty pilot opening: If your pilot light produces a yellow flame, it’s probably due to a dirty pilot opening. This can restrict the thermocouple’s operation, leading to pilot light instability.
  • Weak or faulty gas regulator: Issues with this component could lead to an inadequate gas supply needed to maintain the pilot light. If several gas appliances in your residence have similar problems, examine the regulator.
  • Gusty conditions: Water heaters often share a utility closet with the furnace, which requires fresh air to work properly. Strong drafts from this air intake can extinguish your pilot light.

Congrats, Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light is Lit. Let Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Keep it That Way!

If you’re still having difficulty with your water heater pilot light in the U.S., reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, effective cures to all your comfort worries. Everything we do is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not thrilled with our work, we’ll work to resolve it. We are leaders in innovation and customer service, with strong community involvement that is a reflection of our commitment to your comfort. Call 866-397-3787 today to reach the trained staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’re ready to make a major difference in your life, one hot shower at a time. 

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