How To Turn On a Water Heater
The procedure for turning on a water heater is comprised of a few simple stages.Although it appears to be a straightforward task, there is a certain protocol that must be followed.For gas and electric water heaters, you will need to follow a distinct set of instructions.Propane water heaters will operate in the same way as natural gas water heaters.
- If you are unsure about the sort of water heater you have, go to the section titled ‘Water Heater Types’.
- Having doubts about whether or not this is the best answer for your problem?
- For further information on gas hot water heaters, see ‘Troubleshooting Gas Water Heater Problems’.
- For details on detecting the specific problem with an electric water heater, read ‘Electric Hot Water Heater Troubleshooting’.
- Hot water heater issues that are more broad in nature can be found under ‘Hot Water Heaters General Topics’ for further information.
Turning On a Gas Hot Water Heater
The following are the procedures to take while attempting to start a gas hot water heater, with explanations to follow: (1) Close any faucets or valves that are currently open.Then start by putting on the cold water faucet.(3) If the gas has been turned off entirely, re-light the pilot light.(four) If the gas valve was previously set to the ‘Pilot’ position, switch it to the ‘On’ position.
Step One – Close Open Faucets
In order to enable air to enter your hot water tank while you were working on it, you should have opened a faucet while you were doing so. This inhibits the formation of an airlock in the system. You can now close the faucets until you are ready to re-connect the water supply.
Step Two – Turn On the Cold Water Supply
To prepare for re-igniting the gas and lighting the pilot, you’ll want to turn on the cold water faucet and allow the tank to replenish. When the tank is only partly full, it is not recommended to turn on the heating components again. At this time, the tank will be refilled with water, replacing any that was lost during the tank’s repair work and maintenance.
Step Three – Light the Pilot Light
When it comes to igniting the pilot light, each water heater has a somewhat different technique. For further instructions, go to the page titled ″How to Light a Gas Water Heater Pilot Light″ on this website.
Step Four – Turn the Gas Valve to On
If you were able to just flip your gas valve to the ‘Pilot’ position, you would not have needed to use the pilot light at all.Instead, you should be able to activate the gas by turning the gas valve to the ‘ON’ position.At this point, the water heater should begin to heat the water in the tank.As a result, the burner should be turned on.
- You will need to follow the whole pilot lighting instructions if, for some reason, it does not work properly.
- For further details, see the page on ″How to ignite pilot lights.″
Turning On an Electric Hot Water Heater
The following are the procedures to take while attempting to start a gas hot water heater, with explanations to follow: (1) Close any faucets or valves that are currently open. Then start by putting on the cold water faucet. (3) Take the lock out tag out of the breaker box and discard it. (4) Disconnect the hot water heater from the main circuit breaker.
Step One – Close Open Faucets
In order to enable air to enter your hot water tank while you were working on it, you should have opened a faucet while you were doing so. This inhibits the formation of an airlock in the system. You can now close the faucets until you are ready to re-connect the water supply.
Step Two – Turn On the Cold Water Supply
Before re-connecting the power, you should turn on the cold water and let the tank to replenish. It is not recommended to switch the heating elements back on when the tank is only partly full, since this might cause harm to them. At this time, the tank will be refilled with water, replacing any that was lost during the tank’s repair work and maintenance.
Step Three – Remove the Lock Out Safety Tag
This is the piece of tape that you should have placed over the breaker to warn anyone who attempts to get access to the panel not to switch on the circuit breaker. This is a safety measure that can help to avoid electric shocks and possibly death from occurring.
Step Four – Turn On the Water Heater Breaker
The majority of electric water heaters do not include an indication light to alert you that the appliance is operational.If you listen closely, you should be able to hear some clicking sounds, which signal that the heating components have been activated and the water is beginning to heat.At this point, the water heater should begin to heat the water in the tank.You should be able to get hot water in 30 to 60 minutes.
- Check one of the faucets to see whether the water is getting hot before turning on the water.
How Do I Turn My Water Heater On?
Is the water in your home too cold?It’s possible that your water heater has been switched off.It is possible for your water heater to shut down for a variety of reasons, ranging from minor electrical or gas problems to complete system failure.Something as simple as a blast of wind might extinguish the pilot light on your gas water heater if it is powered by gas.
- It doesn’t matter what the situation is, the first thing you should do before picking up the phone and calling a specialist is attempt to re-ignite your water heater.
- This Might Also Be of Interest to You: Don’t Forget to Flush Your Toilet!
- Flushing Your Gas or Electric Water Heater: A 6-Step Guide (with Pictures) The majority of the time, unless your water heater requires repair or replacement, you should be able to restore it to working condition on your own.
- What you need to do to get your gas or electric water heater back up and running is as follows: –
Common Types of Water Heaters
- The method by which you switch on your water heater is determined on the type of water heater you have.
- The majority of houses have a tank-style water heater, which can be either gas or electric.
- They operate in a straightforward manner: water is pumped into the tank, and the water is heated by heating devices within the tank.
- In recent years, tankless water heaters have become increasingly popular.
- As opposed to conventional water heaters, these models make use of superheated coils to heat water quickly and as needed, which is why they’re frequently referred to as on-demand water heaters.
How to Turn on a Gas Water Heater
If your water heater has a pilot light, it is most likely a gas-powered one. To get it working again, follow these steps:
1. Turn Off the Gas
You should be able to easily identify the gas shut-off valve on your water heater. Select ″Off″ from the drop-down menu. Keep the door closed for at least five minutes to confirm that the gas has gone.
2. Check for Any Open Valves or Faucets
Close any faucets or valves that may be connected to the tank that are now open. When troubleshooting your water heater, it’s usually a good idea to double-check the valves, since one of them may have been accidentally pushed open.
3. Turn the Cold Water On
- Then, switch on the cold-water supply to the water heater to begin heating the water.
- If you choose to drain it first and start over, that is also OK.
- It is critical that the tank be completely refilled before turning the engine back on.
- The fact that you are turning on your water heater when it is empty or when the water level is low might cause it to malfunction.
- Take advantage of this opportunity to cleanse your system.
- Every one to three years, flushing your water heater can aid in the removal of sediment and extension of its service life.
4. Light the Pilot
- Every manufacturer has a separate set of instructions for re-igniting the pilot light, so it’s critical to read and follow the precise instructions that came with your particular item.
- These instructions are often written on the side of the tank or included in the owner’s handbook.
- It is critical to note the following: If you sense a strong gas smell at any moment, immediately stop what you’re doing, turn off the main gas valve in your home, and call a professional for assistance.
- Depending on whether you have an automated or manual system, the following are the fundamental procedures to relighting the pilot lamp:
Electronic Igniter
- While holding the pilot igniter button down, hit the spark generator button to activate the generator of light.
- Continue to hold down the pilot igniter button for 20 to 30 seconds until the pilot igniter turns on.
- After this period of time, if the water heater pilot does not ignite, you may need to press the spark generator down every 10 seconds until it does so.
- Most of the time, you can see if it’s lighted through the small glass window where the pilot is located.
- Once it has been lighted, turn the control knob to the ″On″ position.
Manual Pilot
- Locate the access point for the pilot light. Push the gas valve to the ″Pilot″ position and turn it.″ Use a long-reach lighter to ignite the pilot while keeping the knob pressed into the cylinder. Continue to press the knob or button for approximately one minute. Slowly release it and return it to the ″On″ position.″ If you listen closely, you should hear a whoosh or click, which indicates that the primary burner has ignited. After re-igniting the pilot light, let the water tank to heat for at least an hour before checking to see whether it is operational. More Articles that are related: When it comes to water heaters, the age-old question is whether they are gas or electric.
- Learn how to properly drain a water heater.
- What It Will Cost to Replace a Water Heater
- Is a Tankless Water Heater a Good Investment?
- When your water heater isn’t working, you’ll notice these seven tell-tale signs.
How to Turn on an Electric Water Heater
- Because electric water heaters do not require a pilot light, the installation process is straightforward.
- To begin, make certain that the circuit breaker that controls the water heater is turned off.
- Check for and close any open valves or faucets that you may have discovered.
- Afterwards, switch on the cold water faucet in order to allow the hot water tank to fill.
- When it’s completely filled, all you have to do is turn the breaker back on again.
- Similar to a gas water heater, it may take an hour or more to reach the desired temperature.
What If My Water Heater Still Doesn’t Work?
- Electric and gas water heaters can endure for many years if they are properly maintained, but nothing is guaranteed to last forever.
- If you’ve attempted to switch on your water heater and ignite the pilot light without success, consult with a professional to determine whether the unit needs to be repaired or completely replaced.
- Because we are spending more time at home than ever before, it is critical to be prepared for unexpected home repairs with a plan from HomeServe.
- The knowledge that you can easily call our 24-hour repair hotline in the event of a covered breakdown provides you more peace of mind.
- Explore the options that are available in your community.
How to Turn on a Water Heater
- Article to be downloaded article to be downloaded Regardless matter whether you have an electric or a gas water heater, you can switch it on without needing to seek a professional for assistance.
- An electric water heater requires the discovery and activation of the circuit breaker, whereas a gas water heater requires the lighting of the pilot light.
- One of the most crucial procedures is to make certain that your water heater is completely filled with water before turning it on for the first time.
- 1 Turn off the water supply and the gas valve, or the circuit breaker, if applicable.
- Turn the gas valve to the ″Off″ position, or check to see that the breaker switch for the water heater is not tripped at the main circuit breaker.
- To cut off the water supply, turn the valve for the cold water supply line that enters the tank clockwise until it stops turning (usually from above).
- Even though the breaker switch for your water heater should be labeled, you should still cut off the main power if it isn’t.
- 2 Empty and flush the tank to thoroughly clean it. To drain your water tank, connect a hose to the bottom of the tank, near the faucet, and turn on the water. Consider purchasing a hose that will be long enough to reach a nearby floor drain or utility sink, or perhaps all the way outside to the yard. Then, to begin the process of draining the water tank, open the drain valve on the tank. By opening a hot water tap next to the tank, you’ll be able to drain it more quickly while simultaneously keeping an eye on the development of the tank. The cold water supply valve should be opened once again in order to rinse away any remaining residue or minerals from the tank. Allow 5-10 minutes for the cold water to flush via the drain valve
- if it is a newly installed tank, you may skip the flushing procedure. It is not necessary to connect the hose or open the drain valve, and you can check the level of the tank by turning on the neighboring hot water faucet – a constant stream of water without sputtering is the indicator.
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- 3Close the drain valve while leaving the water supply valve open to prevent flooding. Close the drain valve and remove the hose once the tank has been emptied completely and clean water is flowing out of it. After a few minutes, your water tank should begin to fill up again. Keep the tap on a nearby faucet open to allow air to escape while the tank is filling up with water. 4Continue to look for an open hot water faucet in the vicinity. When your tank is completely full, you’ll be able to tell by the temperature of your hot water tap. When you see and hear a lovely, steady stream of water coming out of the tap, you know your water heater is fully charged. It is possible to hear spitting, which indicates that air is still being squeezed out of the tank. Once you have a steady stream coming out of the faucet, you may close it. 5Turn on the gas supply or the circuit breaker. You’re now ready to switch on the water heater because the tank is completely filled. You should turn on the gas valve if you’re working with gas when you’re ready to ignite the pilot light, unless you’re working with electricity. In the case of electric water heaters, re-energize the circuit breaker. Advertisement
- 1 The temperature and On/Off controls should be adjusted to the appropriate values.
- Make sure the temperature control is set to its lowest level before turning on the water heater.
- The ″Pilot″ setting on the On/Off control will need to be selected from the drop-down menu.
- Please do not proceed until you have called your gas provider to determine whether you have a gas leak or just rotten eggs smelling in the air.
- 2While starting a spark, press the pilot igniter button all the way down. While holding down the pilot igniter button, push the spark generator button to activate the pilot igniter. As a result, you should see a spark appear through the little glass pane, indicating that the pilot light is operational. Continue to push the pilot igniter button for 20-30 seconds at a time. Do not let go of the pilot igniter button until you see a spark appear on the horizon. Continue to squeeze it for 20-30 seconds to allow it to heat up sufficiently before being freed from the pressure. If the spark generator is still not lighted after 30 seconds, you may need to click the button every 10 seconds until it is correctly illuminated.
- 4 Turn the control to the ″On″ position and adjust the temperature to the appropriate level.
- Turn the On/Off switch to the ″On″ position.
- Once you have reached your preferred temperature, adjust the temperature setting.
- The majority of individuals set theirs at 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius).
- You should now be able to view flames through the little glass window that has been installed.
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- 1 Reduce the temperature and put the On/Off control to the ″Pilot″ position to save energy.
- Make sure the temperature is adjusted to its lowest level before turning on the gas.
- Turn the regulator valve to the ″Off″ position and wait for 10 minutes.
- After the ten minutes have elapsed, you can turn the valve to the ″Pilot″ position.
- If you detect the stench of rotting eggs, contact your gas provider.
- This might be a clue that you have a gas leak in your home or business.
- 2Remove any access panels that are no longer needed. It is possible that your water heater has access panels on the inside and outside that must be removed. To reach the pilot light in this situation, remove the access panels on either side of the pilot light. The access panels are often easy to remove by simply sliding them out. 3Press and hold down the water heater pilot button. Maintain pressure on the pilot button in order to be able to turn on the water heating system. If your model does not have a dedicated pilot button, just press and hold the On/Off control for a few seconds. 4Light the pilot with a long-necked lighter to ensure a smooth flight. The pilot supply tube is a tiny silver tube that is linked to the gas control valve. It may be found near the gas control valve. Follow the silver tubing all the way to the end, and then light the pilot using a long neck lighter.
- 5 Keep the pilot button held for 20-30 seconds before releasing it to continue flying. After you’ve lighted the pilot, keep your finger on the button for another 20-30 seconds to keep it lit. Afterwards, you may gradually unplug the battery, and the pilot should continue to operate normally. If your pilot light goes out, relight it by pressing and holding the pilot button for a longer period of time than you did the first time.
- 6Reinstall the access panels if they were removed previously. Remove any access panels from your water heater and replace them with their original positions. Failure to do so might result in significant damage if the flames suddenly erupt out the orifice as a result of gas buildup.
- 7
- Set the on/off switch and the temperature control to the appropriate settings. Select ″On″ from the On/Off control and adjust the temperature control to your liking — 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degree Celsius) is the suggested setting. After you’ve finished configuring the settings, you should hear the water heater begin to heat up. Advertisement
- 1 After the hot water tank has been filled with water, turn on the circuit breaker for it.
- The circuit breaker that regulates an electric water heater must be located and turned on in order for the heater to function properly.
- Find a double-pole breaker with an amp rating equal to or more than that of the heater if your circuit breaker isn’t listed.
- To turn on the electric water heater, simply flip the breaker on and off again.
- The amp rating of the water tank should be clearly marked on it.
- 2It may take many hours for the water tank to heat up completely. It will take many hours for your water heater to reach its full heating capacity, so check on it occasionally by turning on a tap to ensure that it is getting warm. The optimal temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius).
- 3
- Before turning on your tankless water heater, be sure the gas is turned off. It is critical to ensure that the gas has been switched off before turning on your tankless water heating system. To use a tankless water heater, you will need to turn it on by flicking the appropriate breaker or turning on a switch. Check the temperature and then switch on the gas to the tankless water heater to ensure it is working properly. Once the electricity has been turned on, you may modify the temperature by utilizing the temperature controller, which is often digital in nature. All you have to do now is turn on the gas supply. Tankless water heaters run on-demand, which means that they will only begin heating water when you really need it.
- Because these water heaters are tankless, you won’t have to worry about filling them with water.
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- Question Add a new question Question What is the proper way to turn on an electric water heater? Drew Hawkins1 Provides a Community Response It is not necessary to light an electric water heater. Locate and activate the circuit breaker that regulates the heater’s operation. Allow for a few hours for the water tank to heat up before using it. Check the temperature of a faucet on a regular basis to ensure it is getting heated. When the water temperature reaches 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius), the tank has reached its maximum temperature.
- Concerning the Question What is the proper way to reset my hot water heater? Drew Hawkins1 Provides a Community Response Look for a red button with the word ″Reset″ printed on it on the side of the water heater. Some water heaters feature a reset button that is tucked down behind the thermostat for easy accessibility. When you’ve found it, push the button down hard on it. It is possible that it will produce a clicking sound when it resets.
- Concerning the Question Do you know how long you’ll have to wait for the hot water to return? Drew Hawkins1 Provides a Community Response Gas water heaters can heat up a tank of hot water in around 30 minutes, according to the manufacturer. When it comes to heating the water in its tank, electric water heaters might take a couple of hours. Once the water tank has been re-heated, you will have access to hot water once more.
- Inquire about something There are 200 characters remaining. Include your email address so that you may be notified when this question has been resolved. Advertisement submissions are welcome. Thank you for submitting a suggestion for consideration! In the case of drips pouring out of the discharge pipe, this might indicate that the pressure is too high. Reduce the pressure until it is less than 80 psi.
- Before igniting the pilot light on a gas water heater, ensure sure there isn’t a gas leak — or the stench of rotten eggs — in the area.
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About This Article
- Summary of the ArticleX Check to be that the water tank in your gas water heater is completely filled before turning it on.
- After you’ve done this, turn the knob on your water heater to the ″pilot″ position and, if your water heater has one, click the spark igniter button to start the water heater.
- If you don’t have a long-handled lighter, you may use a cigarette lighter to ignite your pilot.
- As soon as the pilot is ignited, flip the knob to the ″on″ position and adjust the temperature to your liking.
- The majority of individuals set their water heaters at 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- To understand how to replenish your water tank and switch on an electric water heater, continue reading this article.
Did you find this overview to be helpful?The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 132,196 times.
How To Turn Up Water Heater Gas
- How to Increase the Temperature of a Gas Water Heater.
- If it is set to ″pilot,″ there is no need to complete the steps outlined in the pilot light stage.
- The final step in figuring out how to switch on a water heater is to open the gas valve.
- Select ″off″ from the drop-down menu.
- The flue of gas water heaters must be properly functioning in order for carbon monoxide to escape.
- If your flue is broken, carbon monoxide can seep into your house.
If you use a gas water heater, you should install a carbon monoxide detector to avoid any difficulties with potential leaks.If your water heater has a pilot light, it is most likely a gas-powered one.
This Makes The Perceived Hot Water In Your Tank Last Longer.
Your gadget should already be in the process of heating the water, and the burner should also be turned on at this point. Select ″off″ from the drop-down menu. To alter the temperature, you’ll need to follow the procedures outlined below:
Close Any Open Faucets Or Valves.
Check for any leaks or dripping faucets or valves. If your water heater has a pilot light, it is most likely a gas-powered one. If the gas valve was previously set to ‘pilot,’ switch it to ‘on’.
Follow These Steps To Turn It Back On:
It is preferable to begin by turning the dial gently and very slightly toward the hot setting. Keep the door closed for at least five minutes to confirm that the gas has gone. Electric water heaters are a little more difficult to install.
Turning On A Gas Hot Water Heater.
- For a gas heater, you can simply turn the knob counterclockwise to raise the temperature, and clockwise to lower it.
- If it is set to ″pilot,″ there is no need to complete the steps outlined in the pilot light stage.
- The flue of gas water heaters must be properly functioning in order for carbon monoxide to escape.
- If your flue is broken, carbon monoxide can seep into your house.
- If you use a gas water heater, you should install a carbon monoxide detector to avoid any difficulties with potential leaks.
Turning Up Your Water Heater At A Glance.
The most recent gas and electric water heaters are equipped with a thermostat that is built into the rear of the unit. On what method should I raise the temperature of the water heater? Increasing the temperature, on the other hand, can result in a higher electric or gas bill, depending on which provider is responsible for heating your water.
How to Turn On a Water Heater? Water Heater Starting Procedures!
It is understandable that turning on a water heater might feel like a daunting and, at times, overwhelming process. Please don’t be concerned, as we have devised a few simple procedures to make your work a little bit simpler.
Turning On a Gas Hot Water Heater
- To switch on a gas water heater, you need carefully follow the instructions below: Close any faucets or valves that are currently open.
- To begin, turn on the cold water faucet.
- If the gas has been turned off entirely, relight the pilot light.
- If the gas valve was previously set to ‘Pilot,’ change it to ‘On.’
Step One – Close Open Faucets
If you’re working on a hot water tank, you’ve almost certainly had to open a faucet to enable air to circulate through the tank. In order to avoid an airlock from occurring, you should take the following action: Because you want to turn the water back on, you should close the faucet as soon as possible.
Step Two – Turn On the Cold Water Supply
When it comes to gas, it would be imprudent to switch it on and ignite the pilot before first filling the tank. As a result, you should switch on the cold water rather than the hot water since the heating element should not be turned back on with a tank that is only partly filled. In the event that any water is lost while working on the tank, the tank will automatically replenish itself.
Step Three – Light the Pilot Light
- To begin, adjust the temperature control to the lowest possible setting on the dial.
- Set the on-off control to the pilot setting choice at this point.
- Hold the hot water heater pilot button down for a few seconds until it stops working.
- When you look through the little window, make sure you press the spark generator until you hear it click, and then release it.
- When you observe a spark coming from the generator, the pilot light should come on automatically.
- Continue to press the pilot button down for another 20-30 seconds after the pilot has been lighted.
In the event that the pilot failed to ignite, there may be air in the line.Continue to hold the generator button down until the pilot light comes on.It’s important to remember to keep the pilot button down once the pilot lights up.Prior to depressing the button, the thermocouple should have had sufficient time to get hot.To begin, switch the on/off knob to the on position and adjust the temperature control to the appropriate temperature setting.You should be able to hear the burner start up and see flames through the site glass by this point.
- The air vents of these water heaters should be kept clean in order for the water heater pilot light and burner to function correctly.
Step Four – Turn the Gas Valve to On
If you are successful in turning on the gas valve to ″Pilot,″ you will not be required to ignite the pilot light at this time. You should be able to simply turn the gas valve to the ″ON″ position. Providing that you properly follow the instructions outlined above, you should be ready to switch on your gas water heater.
Turning On an Electric Hot Water Heater
- The following are the actions to take in order to turn on an electric hot water heater: Close any faucets or valves that are currently open.
- To begin, turn on the cold water faucet.
- Unplug the breaker box and remove the lockout tag from it.
- Activate the circuit breaker that controls the hot water heater.
Step One – Close Open Faucets
In the beginning, it is the same as with the gas water heater. If you’re working on a hot water tank, you’ve almost certainly had to open a faucet to enable air to circulate through the tank. In order to avoid an airlock from occurring, you should take the following action: Because you want to turn the water back on, you should close the faucet as soon as possible.
Step Two – Turn On the Cold Water Supply
When it comes to gas, it would be imprudent to switch it on and ignite the pilot before first filling the tank. As a result, you should switch on the cold water rather than the hot water since the heating element should not be turned back on with a tank that is only partly filled. In the event that any water is lost while working on the tank, the tank will automatically replenish itself.
Step Three – Remove the Lock out Safety Tag
The safety tag is the piece of tape that should have been placed over the breaker warning so that no one would accidentally switch on the breaker. You should now remove the lock out safety tag to avoid the possibility of electric shocks and, in some situations, death.
Step Four – Turn On the Water Heater Breaker
- Electric water heaters, in the majority of situations, do not have an indication light to alert you that the device is operational.
- If you listen closely, you will hear certain noises that indicate that the heating components have been activated and are beginning to heat up.
- The water should be starting to heat up by now, and you should have your desired hot water within 30-60 minutes after starting.
- Be sure to keep an eye on your faucets to make sure the water is getting hot.
Also Learn About Water Heater Turning Off
final word
- Your water heater should be turned on if you properly follow the instructions outlined in the preceding section.
- However, if you continue to be uncomfortable or nervous about the possibility of a mishap occurring, you should seek an expert or professional to perform the task and explain the process to you while he or she is performing the task.
- In order for you to be able to accomplish it on your own in the future.
The age old question: Is my Water Heater Gas or Electric?
- It is common for every household to have a water heater.
- However, if you ask the majority of homeowners whether their furnace is powered by gas or electricity, the odds are good that they won’t know.
- Yes, I’ll confess it.
- To be honest, I wasn’t sure if my water heater was powered by gas or electricity at first.
- Personally, it didn’t worry me because I was only concerned with maintaining a constant supply of hot water in my home at all times.
- But when I really thought about it, I discovered that knowing the difference was critical when it came to budgeting for bills, minimizing my carbon footprint, and choosing whether or not to upgrade my air conditioning unit.
According to the Department of Energy, water heating is the second most expensive utility bill for most homes, which implies that knowing the operation of water heaters may be beneficial to our bank accounts.Additionally, investing in the most energy-efficient models and being careful of our running faucets may also contribute to water conservation.So, let’s compare and contrast gas and electric water heaters:
Spotting the difference
- Your water heater has been turned on, and you’re not sure if it’s an electric or gas kind.
- What do you do?
- Begin by looking for an access panel on the side of the water heater to get access to the tank.
- A pilot light is a blue flame that appears when you remove the cap.
- Only gas versions have this feature.
- Connected pipes are also an indication of a gas water heater, whereas an electric water heater will just have a wire that runs into the top or side of the device.
Comparing Gas vs. Electric Water Heaters
- The distinctions between gas and electric water heaters go well beyond their physical appearances to include their performance.
- Natural gas and electricity may both be used to feed traditional storage and tankless demand water heaters, however the kind of fuel used has an impact on the pricing and running costs of the water heater.
- Electric water heaters are typically less expensive than gas water heaters, in part because of the ease with which they may be installed, as they do not require gas lines or venting systems.
- Furthermore, there is no threat of harmful gas leakage.
- House Logic, on the other hand, points out that gas models are typically less expensive to operate, depending on your local utility bills.
- Electricity is often more expensive than natural gas in most areas of the country.
Meanwhile, high-efficiency electric water heaters are often more expensive upfront than gas versions, but you’ll likely recover the difference in long-term savings if you choose to invest in one.Find out more about home repair plans in your area.Water heaters, whether gas or electric, require the same level of love and care when it comes to routine maintenance, with the primary difference being whether you turn off the gas pilot light or flip the electricity switch before commencing maintenance operations.When anything goes wrong with a water heater, regardless of the fuel used, the warning indications are typically the same, such as fluctuating water temperature and pressure.Your water heater, whether it’s gas or electric, deserves to be protected by a dependable company.Consider purchasing a home warranty plan in order to be prepared in the event of system failures or unit breakdowns.
- Being well-prepared for any type of home repair is always a wise move..
- See how HomeServe’s repair assistance programs can assist you with the expenses of covered repairs.
How to light the pilot light on your gas hot water storage tank
- Whenever you notice that your hot water is suddenly becoming cold, the first step in resolving the issue is to make sure that the pilot light on your hot water heater has not been extinguished.
- If this has happened, it is something you can easily correct.
- Whenever the tank requires heating, the pilot light ignites a tiny flame that keeps the main burner running.
- The pilot light should always be on.
Before you start
- It is simple to check to see whether your pilot light has gone out and to relight it; but, as with any home improvement project, exercise extra caution while attempting to relight your pilot light.
- Before you begin, be certain that there are no open fires or ignition sources near the water heater, and that there is no odor of gas in the vicinity of the water heater.
- Always remember to put on your safety glasses and to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the appliance.
- Because hot water heaters are all quite similar, the following approach should work on any brand of water heater you may have in your house.
- If you want more assistance, a video of this procedure is also accessible on the Rheem website.
How to light your pilot light
- You may take off the access panel by lifting the cover vertically and dragging it in the direction of your body. The directions for relighting the pilot should be clearly stated on the inside of the lid, as should be expected.
- As far as you can, turn the gas control knob clockwise until it reaches the off position. Depending on the kind of heater you have, the sign for off may be a line or a little dot. Never use a tool to turn this knob
- always turn it by hand.
- Wait five minutes after switching the switch to the off position to allow any unburned gas to escape.
- Taking this step is extremely critical for your safety, and failure to do so may result in an explosion.
- It is okay to proceed once five minutes has passed. The pilot should be re-lit by turning the knob to the pilot position. On the majority of hot water heaters, this is represented by a little flame or spark sign.
- Once the control knob is in the pilot position, press it all the way down and hold it there for 30 seconds.
- Continue to keep the control knob down for another 20 seconds while hitting the igniter button repeatedly for about 40 seconds.
- The pilot should be alight after pressing the igniter button, but continue to hold the control knob down for another 20 seconds.
- Release the knob after 40 seconds and look to verify whether the pilot is still lit
- there should be a blue flame visible.
- Then, if the method doesn’t work, switch off the gas valve and wait another five minutes before starting the process over from the beginning.
- Once the pilot has been properly ignited, turn the control knob anticlockwise until it reaches at least number five and replace the access panel with the new one.
- If you are unable to ignite your pilot light, please contact Pro-Action Plumbing on 0419 314 505 and one of our expert professionals will be able to come to your home to assist you with your problem.
How to Turn Hot Water System On & Off
- Even though a hot water system appears to be a complicated piece of equipment, getting it up and running is something that almost anybody can do on their own.
- Despite the fact that there are some minor changes between the various types of hot water systems – for example, gas, electric, and solar – there are some fundamental procedures that are universal to all hot water systems.
- For each type of hot water system covered in this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the procedures of how to switch each one on and off again for maintenance purposes or when going on vacation for an extended period of time.
- You will need to do the following procedures in order for your hot water heater to be ready for use when it is time to switch it on.
- We will go through the broad stages first, and then we will go into the specifics of gas, electric, immediate, and solar models after that, if necessary.
Step 1 – Turn on the water supply
- Regardless of whether you have a gas, electric, or solar hot water system, the first thing you should do before turning it on is to ensure that the tank is well stocked with clean water.
- Turn on the water supply first by turning on the cold water inflow control valve, which is normally found at the bottom of the water heater, and then turn on the water heater.
- This may be activated by turning the valve in a general anti-clockwise direction.
- When solar systems include storage tanks on the roof, the valve is often situated on the roof, near to the storage tank, to ensure that the system operates properly.
- Unless you are used to being on roofs, you should avoid doing this.
- As an option, you can switch the water on or off at the water meter closest to your house instead.
Step 2 – Check tank is full of water
- If the system has been shut off for an extended period of time, air may accumulate in the pipework throughout the house.
- Turn on a hot water faucet somewhere in the home.
- Connect the cold water supply line to the water heater.
- This will allow new cold water to enter the system, flushing off any residue that may have accumulated.
- Once the tank has been cleansed, maintain the cold water flowing into it.
- When the hot water tank is completely full, the hot water tap that you have switched on will begin to run with a constant stream of water (rather than spluttering with air).
Turn off the hot water faucet at this point.
Step 3 – Turn on the energy source
- The circuit breaker or control switch for an electric hot water system must be turned on in order for the system to function.
- You should notice that the circuit breaker or switch is clearly labeled as Hot Water or perhaps HWS, and that the ‘On’ and ‘Off’ directions are clearly indicated.
- If you are unable to locate the circuit breaker or switch, you can seek assistance from us for assistance.
How to check your electric hot water system is heating
Step 4 – Wait for the tank to heat up
- It should now be possible to start heating up the water in your tank when you have turned on the circuit breaker once more.
- This will take a number of hours, and the precise amount of time may vary depending on the size of your tank and the heating element used.
- (Large tanks are often powered by an off-peak electricity source during the night.
- The result is that they will not be heated until the next day.
- By occasionally turning on a hot water faucet, you can ensure that the tank is heating up, assuming that the electricity is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- The water that comes out of the faucet should gradually grow warmer and warmer over time.
How to ignite an older style gas hot water system
Gas hot water system with a pilot light
- You’ll need to switch on the gas valve, which is often found around the bottom of the hot water system’s boiler.
- As seen in the illustration below, the valve handle is in the off position.
- In order for the valve to be in the on position, the handle must be in line with the pipe.
- Modern model instantaneous water heaters that have a plug and lead attached to a power point at the water heater position will require this to be turned on in order for the electronic ignition to function.
Step 1 – Adjust settings
- Before you can begin, there are a few different settings that must be checked to ensure they are in the proper position.
- To get access to the pilot button region, you may need to remove one or two panels, depending on the model you are using.
- To begin, ensure that the On/Off control is set to the ‘Pilot’ position on the control panel.
- After that, you want to make sure that you have the temperature gauge set to the lowest level possible.
- Wait 10 minutes after turning off the regulator valve before turning it back on.
- (See illustration) To return to Pilot mode, flip the switch back to the left.
If you notice any gas or any other weird odors during this operation, switch off the system and call us immediately (you may have a leak).
Step 2 – Press the pilot button and ignite the gas
Press the pilot button all the way down while at the same time starting to press the piezo ignitor button repeatedly. In the vicinity of the gas control valve is a little silver tube, which is connected to the valve. This is where you may look into the burner area to see the pilot light flame after it has been started, or you can use a tiny mirror to see the flame once it has been ignited.
Step 4 – Keep pressing the pilot button
- Once the pilot light has been ignited, you must ensure that you maintain pressure on the button for about 30 seconds after it has been lit.
- This will provide the flame with enough time to appropriately activate the thermocouple device that maintains the flame alight during the process.
- Slowly release the button after 30 seconds has elapsed, then check to see if the flame is still burning.
- If the flame goes out, you may need to repeat the procedure.
- Replace the panels that were removed previously when the pilot flame has been ignited (if necessary).
- If you are unable to get the system to operate, switch off the gas valve and contact us for assistance..
Step 5 – Turn on the water heater main burner
- Now go to the On/Off switch and turn it to the On position.
- You are now able to adjust the temperature control.
- If there is no tempering valve installed in the water heater, the standard temperature setting is 50 degrees, and if there is a tempering valve installed, the usual temperature setting is 65 degrees.
- The water heater should begin to heat the water as soon as this is completed and you should be able to hear it come to life.
- Open and close the hot water faucet intermittently to ensure that the system is maintaining the proper temperature.
- If it is an older machine, the thermostat may be malfunctioning, in which case you may need to use a thermometer to check the temperature of the water at your taps once it has been properly heated to ensure that the temperature is correct.
How to turn on electric instantaneous hot water system
Step 1 – Turn off the circuit breaker
- As is the case with an electric instantaneous system, you must first switch off the circuit breaker that gives power to the system.
- The power supply board should be properly labeled with this information.
- This may be referred to as the Main Switch Hot Water or HWS, and it will be a larger circuit breaker than the others since this system requires 415 volts, which is three phase electricity, in order to work.
- Some older buildings may also have a single 415-volt main switch that is not connected to any of the three fuse bases that are positioned adjacent to the main switch.
- If you are unsure about the location of your hot water power switches, please contact us for assistance.
Step 2 – Turn on a hot tap
- Turn on a hot water faucet that is linked to the system next.
- In addition to flushing out any air bubbles in the system, this procedure should ensure that there is enough water running through the water heater at a continuous flow rate to operate the switch within the heater that supplies electricity to the element.
- Turn on the faucets for approximately 1 or 2 minutes and then turn them off.
Step 3 – Turn on the circuit breaker
To confirm that the system has activated and begun to heat the water, switch the circuit breaker back on and go back to the sink and turn on the hot tap and run water. Once the system has achieved its maximum temperature, shut off the water supply once more.
How to turn on modern gas instantaneous hot water system
Step 1 – Turn off power point at water heater position.
As is the case with an electric instantaneous system, you must first switch off the electrical supply, which is often the 10 amp power connection adjacent to the water heater in most cases. Despite the fact that the machine is powered by gas, it still has an electrical current running through it, which powers the display as well as the gas ignition.
Step 2 – Turn off the gas
To turn off the gas, locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it to the off position. Wait five minutes after you have completed this step before checking for the presence of gas. If you smell gas, make sure the system is switched off and call us right once (you may have a leak).
Step 3 – Turn on the taps
After that, switch on any hot water faucets that are linked to the system. This should remove any air that may have been trapped in the system. Turn on the faucets for about 1 or 2 minutes and then turn them off.
Step 4 – Turn on the power supply and gas valve
Power and gas may be turned back on at this point as well as the power point itself. When you turn on any hot tap in your home, the system should instantly begin to heat the water in the tank.
Step 5 – Set the temperature
Set the system to the temperature you want it to be at now. Once again, the optimal temperature for bathing is 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and most instantaneous water heaters are internally pre-programmed to this temperature. It may be necessary to install separate temperature control pads in some systems.
How to turn on solar hot water systems
- A professional technician should complete these tasks due to the intricacy of the many types of solar hot water systems as well the gas or electric power source that is being used.
- The following are fundamental measures that may be taken when returning from a lengthy vacation and discovering that the system has been turned off or that some repair has been performed on the hot water supply to fixtures in the home.
Step 1 – Turn on the water supply
- Using the cold water inflow control valve, which is often placed at the bottom of the water heater if the storage tank is below ground level, turn on the water heater.
- This may be activated by turning the valve in a general anticlockwise direction.
- When solar systems include storage tanks on the roof, the valve is often situated on the roof, near to the storage tank, to ensure that the system operates properly.
- Unless you are used to being on roofs, you should avoid doing this.
- As an option, you can switch the water on or off at the water meter closest to your house instead.
Step 2 – Expel air from the system
You will need to switch on all of the hot water faucets in your home, just like you would with other types of hot water systems. After that, completely open the cold water isolation valve. Allow the faucets to run until a steady stream of water flows out of them. It should be possible to tell if all air has been released from the line while water is freely flowing through it.
Step 3 – Plug in the solar control unit
Split solar systems are equipped with a circulating pump that transports water up to the solar panels. Regardless of whether the hot water boosting for the storage cylinder is supplied by gas or electricity, you will need to switch on or plug the solar control unit into an electrical source – which is usually the power point near to the tank – before it will work.
Step 4 – Turn booster on
- Depending on the model, electrical solar water heaters are equipped with either an electrical or a gas booster element.
- It will be necessary to switch on the hot water boosting system, regardless of whether it is powered by gas or electricity.
- The majority of electrical boosters operate on a 24-hour power supply and are controlled by a switch that is conveniently situated within the home and may also include an indication light.
- The booster will almost always be connected to an off-peak tariff, and the switch will be positioned at the meter board for the residence in question.
- The gas supply valve for solar water heaters that use natural gas must be switched on.
- In homes that use LPG gas, you will also want to make sure that the bottle that supplies the gas is switched on as well.
Modern gas-boosted solar systems are equipped with a continuous flow water heater, which is either connected to the solar system’s storage tank or fixed on the wall adjacent to the storage tank.When using these forms of ignition, it is necessary to switch on the power supply to the gas system before the ignition can work.The usage of ground solar hot water systems in conjunction with standard type pilot light gas boosters storage tanks is not uncommon.If you follow the instructions in this article on how to ignite an earlier model gas hot water system, you will be able to successfully relight a ground-mounted gas-boosted solar storage tank.
How to turn hot water systems off
You will notice that the method for shutting off gas and electric heaters differs slightly, but the majority of the processes are the same for both and are essentially the inverse of the stages for turning on any system.
Step 1 – Turn off the power or gas source
When it comes to an electric hot water system, this will involve finding the circuit breaker once more and flipping it to the off position to complete the process. For gas-fired hot water systems, turn the gas valve all the way to the off position before turning on the water.
Step 2 – Shut down water supply
- If you are only going on vacation, this is not a necessary step.
- If you want to keep your plumbing and tapware in good working order in your house, you may follow the easy instructions described in this article that are specific to the type of water heater you have in your home.
- If you are experiencing any problems with your hot water system, please call us immediately for professional advice and services, which include hot water system supply, installation, service, and repair, among other things.
How Do I Relight My Pilot Light?
- Return to the Blog The pilot light of the furnace ignites the burners and initiates the heating process in the furnace.
- Pilot lights were formerly standard on all gas furnaces, however modern systems do not necessarily include pilot light ignition devices, as was the case with older models.
- Some contemporary furnaces, on the other hand, are equipped with electronic ignition mechanisms.
- The loss of your pilot light will result in your furnace being unable to create heat because the burners will not be able to ignite.
- The majority of the time, homeowners can relight the pilot on their own.
- The following is a step-by-step tutorial on how to relight the pilot light on a gas furnace.
How to Relight a Pilot Light: 5 Steps
1. Find the pilot light assembly and its reset switch.
The pilot light of a furnace is typically located at the bottom of the device, controlled by a knob. Typically, the knob is labeled with three different settings:
- Pilot
- On
- Off
If you are unable to locate the pilot light and reset switch on your furnace, consult your furnace’s owner’s handbook for a schematic indicating their placement. If you are unable to locate the hardcopy handbook, you can look for it on the manufacturer’s website.
2. Set the reset switch to off.
Turn the knob all the way to the ″Off″ position. You should be able to adjust it with your fingers without difficulty. The gas flow is halted as a result of this.
3. Wait a moment.
Select ″Off″ from the drop-down menu. Using your fingertips, you should be able to simply change the height. The flow of gas is stopped as a result.
4. Relight the pilot light.
Turn the knob to the ″Pilot″ position and allow gas to flow to the pilot light. Light a lighter or a match, and then press the reset button on the remote control. Keep your flame close to the entrance of the pilot light. To ensure that the pilot light continues to burn continuously, keep the reset switch down. Then press and hold the button for a few seconds.
5. Observe the furnace.
- Once the pilot light has been re-ignited and the reset button has been depressed, your furnace should begin to operate on its own.
- For a few seconds, keep an eye on the pilot light to make sure it remains lit.
- Check the surrounding area for drafts or other air sources that might have caused the pilot light to go out at the start of the experiment.
- Don’t hesitate to call an expert HVAC contractor at Parker’s Heating & Cooling if you are unable to relight the pilot light or if you are uncomfortable executing the instructions above on your own.
- Call us at (615) 355-9137 or send us an email!
- If you need assistance with your pilot light or any other furnace repair for your home or business in or around Smyrna, TN, we’re here to help you.
Contact us now.We also welcome you to take advantage of our unique offers and become a member of our Comfort Club, which allows you to save money while still receiving dependable, high-quality business and residential HVAC services across Rutherford County, TN!
How to light a gas water heater
- If your water heater is not heating up, it is possible that the pilot light has gone out.
- No matter what sort of water heater you have, the process of lighting it is straightforward.
- The majority of contemporary versions of gas water heaters are equipped with a straightforward ignition switch.
- The water heater is turned on in a matter of seconds, no trouble.
- If you’ve moved into an older home, on the other hand, it’s possible that your water heater is the type that requires manual activation.
- Here’s how to turn on both types of water heaters at the same time.
Do you have a manual water heater?
There is a straightforward technique to determine if your gas water heater is automated or manual. Take a look at the box that protrudes from the side of the water heater and has two distinct dials. Automatic vehicles will feature a little ignition button adjacent to the large On/Off/Pilot dial, indicating that it is an automatic. If it is a manual, there will be no button to press.
How to light an automatic water heater
- When you turn off the gas, check for the knob that says On/Off/Pilot first, then turn it off completely.
- Ensure that the knob is turned beyond Pilot and into the Off position before continuing.
- Allow for a five-minute dissipation of any built-up gas that may be present in the system.
- It’s time to start the lighting procedure at this point.
- Make sure the water heat dial is set to Low and the On/Off/Pilot dial is set to the Pilot position.
- Then, while simultaneously pressing the igniter button and turning the On/Off/Pilot dial downward, turn the ignition switch on.
Allow the igniter button to be released, but continue to press the Pilot dial downward for about 30 seconds.You should hear a ″whoosh″ sound as soon as the gas is turned on.Taking the little door below the ignition box will reveal a small window through which you may peer to see whether there is an open flame within.If it is lit, conclude by closing the door and turning the dial from Pilot to On, as well as changing the water temperature dial from Low to the temperature you choose.To avoid gas accumulation, you must restart the process immediately if the pilot light is not lighted.
How to light a manual water heater
- To fire this style of water heater, I recommend using a long barbeque lighter like this one.
- In any other case, getting in touch with the pilot will be difficult.
- To begin, remove the plate that is located beneath the dial-equipped box on the side of the water heater.
- There may also be an inner plate that you will need to shift to the side in order to complete the installation.
- Following that, you should notice a pipe or pipes heading to a burner.
- Next, move the knob on the box labeled On/Off/Pilot beyond the Pilot position and into the Off position to complete the process.
After that, wait for five minutes to allow any residual gas to disperse.Turn the water temperature dial to Low and the On/Off/Pilot dial to Pilot to complete the installation.While using one hand to push the On/Off/Pilot dial downward, use the other to ignite the barbeque lighter on the grill.Hold the barbeque lighter over the end of the pipe near the burner for a few seconds.The flame should be ignited immediately.Continue to press the Pilot dial downward for approximately 30 seconds, after which you will be able to switch it from Pilot to On.
- Finalize by placing the plates back over the burner hole and adjusting the water temperature control to your preferred setting.
- Important: If the burner does not come to life within a few seconds, repeat the operation until the burner does.
- If you continue to do it for an extended length of time, gas can accumulate and produce an explosion.
- Is the energy efficiency of your home high?
Here are five different methods to find out.CNET’s Guide to Smart Living is a one-stop shop for tips, techniques, and guidelines to help you live a more intelligent life.