Why Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light Keeps Going Out & How to Fix It
The date is May 13, 2021.When the pilot light flame on your gas water heater goes out, it is an annoying and frustrating situation to have to deal with.When your water heater’s pilot light fails to stay lit, you’re left without hot water, which makes even the most basic of tasks such as taking a shower a chore.Naturally, you question, ″How did this happen?What happened?″ Is there anything you can recommend to help you get things going again?What should I do to have it repaired?
″May you tell me about the costs I can expect?″ Fortunately, if your water heater pilot light goes out, you should be aware that this is a frequent problem that many homeowners have and that the time and effort required to repair it is low.Please allow us to guide you through some of the most frequent reasons why your water heater isn’t heating and how to resolve this issue if your water heater pilot light won’t stay lit and you are unfamiliar with water heaters.
Why does the pilot light on my water heater keep going out?
Because of problems with the heater’s thermocouple or owing to access to combustible air, your water heater’s pilot light continues going out repeatedly.
Thermocouple Issues
When your pilot light is on, your thermocouple detects the presence of the flame.The thermocouple’s tip is positioned above the pilot flame, providing a voltage that maintains the gas valve open in the process.A thermocouple will shut down the gas supply to your water heater if it detects that the pilot light on your water heater is not lighting up properly.When thermocouples are exposed to moisture or dust for an extended period of time, they might malfunction, gather dust, or get bent away from the pilot light’s flame.In either situation, the thermocouple will have a difficult time sensing the pilot light and shutting down the gas flow.
Lack of Combustible Air
When your pilot light is lit, your thermocouple detects it.The thermocouple’s tip is positioned above the pilot flame, providing a voltage that keeps the gas valve open.A thermocouple will shut down the gas supply to your water heater if it detects that the pilot light on your water heater is not being ignited.When thermocouples are exposed to moisture or dust for an extended period of time, they might malfunction, gather dust, or get bent away from the pilot light flame.It will be difficult for the thermocouple to detect the pilot light and cut off the gas supply in either situation.
What do I do if my water heater pilot light keeps going out?
Try to rekindle the spark on your own first, if at all possible. Take the following general steps:
- Locate the gas shut-off knob and turn it all the way to the ″Off″ position. The gas flow is halted as a result of this. Allow for a few minutes for the gas to dissipate before continuing.
- To get access to the burner, remove the access panel.
- To begin the flow of gas, turn the knob to the ″Pilot″ position. You’ll want to press and hold the knob down for a few seconds.
- While still holding the gas knob, ignite the pilot with a long lighter while still holding the gas knob. To ignite your gas water heater, use the button on the side of the tank that says ″ignite.″
- As soon as the flames have been extinguished, turn the gas knob to the ″On″ position and wait for the main burner to come on.
If you are unable to relight the pilot or if your pilot light keeps going out, it is possible that you have another problem, such as a faulty thermocouple, to consider. Please refer to the owner’s handbook for your water heater equipment for further information.
Can I replace a thermocouple myself?
Yes.In the event that you are handy with tools, you may be able to change the thermocouple yourself.It is easier to accomplish this by turning off the gas valve and removing the entire burner and thermocouple assembly.In some cases, however, it is preferable and safer to hire someone who is knowledgeable in modest repairs.A specialist may also evaluate your water heater for other faults and provide advise or ideas on how to deal with any existing or future difficulties that may arise.
Call BGE HOME
BGE HOME can assist you if your water heater pilot light won’t ignite or keeps going out.You may reach us by phone at 410-918-5600 or by email.Our licensed specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to come out and inspect your water heater and make recommendations on how to get it running safely and effectively again.This item was posted on Thursday, May 13th, 2021 at 4:09 pm and is filed under Uncategorized.Commenting and pinging are temporarily closed for this post.
How to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light
When the pilot light on a water heater goes out, it is typically due to a natural shift in gas pressure extinguishing the flame.Previous Post Next Post The most obvious indicator that a pilot light has gone out is the one that everyone dreads: the water will not heat up properly.In the event of a damaged flame sensor, it’s critical to know how to relight the pilot light on your water heater so you can get the flame going as quickly as possible.This will not only allow you to get your hot showers back, but it will also ensure that no gas is unintentionally discharged into the home.It is critical that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your water heater; instructions differ depending on the type and model.However, for the vast majority of gas-powered water heaters, you should begin by locating the gas shut-off valve on the water heater, which is generally plainly labeled on the front lower section of the water heater, before proceeding.
Turn the knob to the ″Off″ position and wait five minutes for the gas to clear before proceeding with the next steps:
- Open the door or cover that provides access to the pilot light. In most cases, this will be positioned under the gas valve
- however, some water heaters will just have an open gap where you can see the pilot light burner instead.
- Locate the burner within the container using a flashlight or a headlamp. It will be reached by two little gas tubes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it while you’re at work.
- Turn the gas knob to the ″Pilot″ position and push and hold the button. This will initiate the flow of gas, allowing you to ignite the flame. Some water heaters feature a separate pilot mode button, which is commonly a red button, which you must push and hold in order to activate it.
- While keeping the gas pedal depressed, ignite the pilot light. Certain water heaters feature an igniting button that is red or black, while others must be lighted manually with a long lighter
- some models include a red or black igniting button.
- Maintaining pressure on the gas knob or button for a full minute after the flame is ignited is critical. Then slowly release it while checking to see if the light is still on.
- Turn the gas knob to the ″On″ position and listen for the unmistakable ″whump″ or whooshing sounds that indicates the main burner has ignited.
- Enjoy your hot shower when you’ve replaced the lid.
Despite the fact that a single extinguished pilot light is normally caused by a natural fluctuation in gas pressure, recurrent faults suggest a more serious problem with the water heater itself.The most typical problem that causes repeated pilot outages is a filthy or bent thermocouple, which is a thin copper wire and rod that detects the presence of a flame and immediately switches the gas off when it detects a lack of flame detection.
What is a Thermocouple?
A thermocouple is sometimes referred to as a flame sensor in contemporary water heaters because of the way it detects flames.Your thermocouple is most likely twisted, filthy, or damaged if the pilot light continues to go out after you have completed the above-mentioned lighting procedures.For those who find that their pilot light is twisted and not near the burner, they may simply turn off the gas, shift it over, and attempt lighting the pilot again.It may be necessary to clean the water heater gas valve and the main gas line near the heater if this does not solve the problem.Remove the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve and set them aside for later use.The burner is typically simple to remove by simply sliding it out.
Clean out the burner ports with a vacuum, and then use a microfiber cloth and steel wool to clean the tip of the thermocouple.If this doesn’t solve the problem, you may get a new thermocouple for less than $15 at any hardware store or home improvement center.If your water heater is causing you more issues than you can manage, or if you’re ready to upgrade to a more energy-efficient one, you may call your local Mr.Rooter Plumbing for help restoring hot water to your home.Hundreds of qualified specialists work for us all across the country, and hot water heaters are only one of the plumbing and water appliances that we like repairing and upgrading the most.The use of hot water is simply one component of a great showering experience.
Replace that sticky shower curtain with a bespoke glass shower door from Glass Doctor, a sister company in the Neighborly network of reputable home service providers, to let in more light, make your bathroom feel larger, and create the shower area of your dreams.Previous Previous post: Previous post: Next post:
How to Light a Water Heater
Article to be downloaded article to be downloaded You may see cold water flowing from your hot water faucet if you reside in a home that has a natural gas water heater.This is a good indication that your pilot light has gone out.It is not necessary to hire a professional in most circumstances; you will have hot water again in a matter of hours if the pilot is re-ignited correctly.While having your water heater’s instruction manual on hand is a good idea, it is not fully required because most gas water heaters need a similar process for relighting the pilot light, as described in this article.
1 Make that the pilot light is working properly.You will most likely need to remove a tiny panel at the bottom of the tank, known as an access panel, in order to determine whether or not the pilot light is truly turned off.If you do not see a little flame flickering, this indicates that your pilot light has been turned off.Depending on your water heater model, it is conceivable that your panel is not detachable and that you must observe your pilot light via a transparent window.In this instance, if you are unable to see a flame burning through the glass, your pilot light is not working properly.
- 2 Check to see whether there is any gas leaking. Never attempt to restart your pilot light if there is gas leaking from your water heater, as this is highly harmful to both you and your property. Instead, call 911 immediately. To check for leaks before attempting to relight the pilot, perform a basic smell test on the cylinder. Standing near to your water heater, sniff the air to see if you can notice any strange aromas. After that, get down on your knees and smell around any valves on the front and sides of the tank. Naturally, natural gas has no odor. To make it noticeable to humans, gas companies add an ingredient known as mercaptan to the mixture. The smell of leaking gas is similar to that of sulfur or rotting eggs.
- If you detect the presence of gas in either of these locations (even if it is a faint odor), do not attempt to relight the pilot. Remove yourself from the vicinity of the water heater and contact your gas provider immediately
- they will advise you on what to do next.
- Also, keep an ear out for hissing sounds near the water heater, which might indicate a gas leak.
- Promotional material
- 3 Instructions may be found on the inside of the door panel of your water heater. Detailed instructions for your specific water heater model may be available here, and following them may assist you in the process of relighting the pilot for your unique water heater. Advertisement
- Step 1: Lower the temperature control setting to the lowest possible setting. This is normally placed on the front of a box that may be found on the outside of the water heater.
- 2Find the regulator valve on the water heater. When this valve is turned off, the pilot burner beneath the hot water tank will not operate. This valve is normally found in a similar location as the temperature control, however it is most likely positioned on the top of the box.
- 3Turn the knob to the ″Off″ position. Wait 10 minutes after turning off the knob before proceeding to ensure that any remaining gas from the tank has cleared the air before continuing. The most important thing is to be safe!
- 4
- Determine the type of water heater that you have installed. Gas hot water heaters are often classified into two categories: ″new″ and ″ancient.″ Traditional heaters will require you to relight the pilot light with your own flame, however newer design tanks are fitted with a pilot light igniter built into the tank. However, while the specific appearance of the buttons on modern design tanks may vary, many of them include a red igniter button that is located a few inches away from the temperature and regulator valves.
5 Gather any lighting items that may be required.You will need to obtain a long-reach ″wand″ lighter or fireplace matches to relight the pilot on an older design water heater.Avoid attempting to relight a pilot with a conventional matchstick or a small cigarette lighter since doing so will force you to place your fingers in a small, tight position too near to the open flame, putting you at risk of being burnt.
6Travel to the location of the pilot. The pilot is positioned at the end of the little silver tube that comes out of the control valve and is connected to the control valve. It’s possible that you’ll need to use a flashlight to see clearly in this location. Advertisement
1 Turn the gas valve to the ″Pilot″ position and press the button on the valve. It is necessary to do this in order to initiate the flow of gas into the tube that supplies the pilot light. Find a red control button near the gas valve on your water heater if the gas valve on your water heater does not press down properly. Keep your finger on this button.
- 2 Light the pilot burner with a match. The pilot gas valve or the red button will be held down with one hand while the other hand will be used to swiftly light the pilot. To use this button, make sure you have a new model water tank with a built-in ignition switch installed. You should be able to hear a clicking sound until the pilot burner comes on. If you have an old-fashioned heater, ignite the pilot burner with a wand lighter or match and wait a few minutes.
- Because you will be using one hand to push the valve/red button while using the other hand to ignite the pilot, you may require the assistance of another person to carry a flashlight for you if you require additional lighting. Make an effort to get assistance in advance so that you do not go halfway through a procedure only to be forced to halt because you are unable to see what you are doing
- 1 Minute after the pilot light has been ignited, keep the gas valve or control button down by pressing it down one more time. This will heat the thermocouple, which is a sensor that turns off the gas when the pilot is not lit.
- 4Release the valve knob/control button to complete the process. After a minute, open the valve and press the control button to check if the pilot light is still on.
- 5Remove the access panels and replace them. When checking to see if the pilot light is still lit, replace the access panel (if you had to remove it first) to ensure that no flames escape into your home.
- 6Restart the main burner. Turn the main gas valve back to the ″On″ position and set the temperature control to the appropriate temperature. The main burner under the tank should be turned on and the water in the tank should begin to heat. Caution: When turning the knob to ″on,″ be careful to keep your head away from the burner area.
- 7Set the thermostat to the appropriate temperature. Remember not to heat the water to a boiling point, since you might scald your hands or body accidently when washing or bathing. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends a temperature of 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit). Advertisement
- Question Add a new question Question How can I start a gas heater that is more recent in design? Look up your model number and get in touch with the manufacturer for more detailed information. For the most part, the only difference between a current heater and these instructions is that newer units include an electronic igniter (you simply press a button and a spark is produced) for lighting the pilot. What do I name the gadget that I use to ignite the pilot’s engine when I press a button on it? It’s referred to as a ″spark igniter.″
- Concerning the Question What should I do if the pilot light on my water heater keeps flickering on and off? It is likely that you will have to replace it. You can also get in touch with a supplier or even the business that made your water heater.
- Concerning the Question What should I do if the pilot light won’t remain lit for whatever reason? The most likely cause of your problem is that your thermocouple has to be repaired or replaced. A pilot light is a short copper tube that connects your water heater’s controls to the pilot light and has an end that sticks into the flame. Whenever the pilot light heats up the tip, it creates electricity that is detected by the control box, which allows it to determine that the pilot light is on. A new one is simple to install, and you can pick one up at any home improvement, plumbing supply, or hardware shop. Take your old one with you so that you may acquire the right measurement. A little bit longer is OK, but not typically much shorter
- Question When I press the pilot button, how long should I hold it down before pressing the little red ignitor button beneath it? It takes around 5 seconds. Question: Can you turn it back on and change the temperature? So, what should I do if the pilot light won’t turn on for whatever reason? Continue to try while keeping an eye out for any signs that there is gas coming through (usually by smell). The likelihood is that the regulator is faulty and that it will need to be replaced. This is also something that may be accomplished by oneself.
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.
Video
- If this procedure does not provide results, check to see that the pilot light’s base is not filthy or blocked. If it is, clean it well and repeat the process after 10-15 minutes. You may also try holding the valve/control button for an additional 30-45 seconds after the pilot light has been ignited.
- If this technique does not work, it might be due to a lack of gas pressure or a defective gas valve. If you are unable to ignite the water heater despite many efforts, contact an appliance repair person, a plumber, or your gas provider.
- You may have a faulty thermocouple if the pilot light does not come back on after being re-lit or if it goes out soon after being re-lit. It is possible to see the thermocouple in the pilot light flame region because it extends from the temperature control into the flame area.
- They are reasonably priced, and you can do the installation yourself.
- Thank you for submitting a suggestion for consideration! Advertisement If you detect the scent of gas anywhere in your home, contact your gas provider right once. Even a ″little smidgeon of gasoline″ is too much.
- Do not re-open the gas valve until you have completed the replacement of the access panels. It is possible that a flame will come out of the water heater if this is done.
Advertisement
About This Article
Summary of the Article Set the temperature control to the lowest setting and turn the gas regulator valve to the ″Off″ position to begin lighting an electric water heater.X Then, by adjusting the gas valve to the ″Pilot″ position and pressing down on it, you may begin to pump gas into the system.After that, press the red ignitor button, which is located near the gas valve, to ignite the pilot burner.Hold down the pilot button for 1 minute longer than you think it should be and check to see whether the pilot is lit.If it isn’t, go back and repeat the process until it is If this is the case, flip the gas valve back to the ″On″ position and adjust the temperature to your liking.Continue reading for helpful hints on how to prepare for and light your water heater.
Did you find this overview to be helpful?The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 389,186 times.
Is The Pilot Light On My Water Heater Out? How Do I Relight It?
- Showers that are too cold? Status indicators that blink? When there should be a flame, there isn’t one. All of these are indications that the pilot light on your water heater has gone out. Fortunately, that is a quite simple repair. In this tutorial, we’ll go over the following topics: How to determine whether or not your pilot light is working properly
- How to get it to work again
- How long do you think it will be until you get hot water again
- What is the reason for it continuing to go out?
Meanwhile, if you have any concerns or want assistance, please contact Broadley’s by phone or email. Even when we distance ourselves and practice social distancing, Broadley’s relies on phone conversations and virtual consultations to answer inquiries and obtain further information about our products and services.
Signs your pilot light is out
- You can determine whether your water heater’s pilot light is out by looking at the water temperature, the blinking light or error message, and the lack of a visible flame.
Your Water Is Cold
If you’ve reached the point where you’re only getting cold water, start troubleshooting by checking the pilot light on the faucet.Of course, there are a variety of additional possibilities for why you aren’t getting hot water.The most apparent example is if you’ve recently used a lot of water and completely depleted the tank.However, if this is not the case, the pilot light should be checked first.If that is not the case, you may be dealing with a more serious issue.But, with any hope, it will be a simple remedy.
Blinking Light or Error Message
The first thing you should do is look at the control panel of your equipment.It’s normally located at the bottom of the device, with one or two lights illuminated.If there is an issue with your model, that light may remain on, flicker, or change colors to alert you to the situation.If you have a handbook, look through it.Generally, though, there is a sign or key directly on the heater that tells you what the different lights represent and how to use them.If your light shows that the pilot light is not working, you’ve found the source of the problem.
You Can’t See the Flame
The final stage is to conduct a visual inspection.Double-checking is still recommended, even if you are utilizing the status light.You’ll also need to know where to seek for the items later on in the game.A space at the bottom of the unit should also be there so that you can view what’s going on beneath the unit.That’s where the flame should be placed, right?If you’ve been there previously and saw the pilot light on, it’ll be much easier to locate the location.
However, if you don’t see anything and the status light shows that it is not working, you’ve identified the source of the problem.
How to Turn Your Water Heater Pilot Light Back On
It’s easy to turn your water heater pilot back on.But first, check for a gas leak.If there’s a leak, then igniting a flame can cause an explosion.Fortunately, this is easy: Sniff around the pilot light area and make sure you don’t smell any gas.If that’s clear, you can proceed.Now, different models will have some variations on how exactly to do this.
But, the general idea is the same.Check that access panel again.You’ll see a knob with temperature settings along with a notch that says, “Pilot” or “Pilot Light.” Find that and the ignitor button.It’s usually right on the panel.Turn and hold the knob to “Pilot” and push the ignitor.You should hear it click, and probably also a “whooshing” sound.
Check in that gap, and you should see the light on.
How Long Will It Take to Get Hot Water Again?
It takes an ordinary gas heater between thirty and forty minutes to heat a full tank of water on the lowest setting.The precise timing will be determined on the available capacity.For the sake of comparison, consider the following: A typical electric heater takes at least an hour, and in some cases up to 80 minutes, to reach operating temperature.In the case of solar-powered equipment, the same holds true.Tankless systems, on the other hand, do not require a pilot light or a waiting period before providing hot water – ever.In contrast to traditional tank systems, tankless systems do not store warm water in a tank until you need it.
In place of it, they heat the water as soon as you turn on the faucet.They’re becoming increasingly popular for coastal homes, particularly those with many apartments or where a large number of people are bathing at the same time after a day at the beach.
Why Does My Pilot Light Keep Going Out?
The presence of dirt surrounding the pilot region and an issue with the thermocouple are two major causes of the pilot light not working properly. We’ll take a look at each of them individually.
The area around the light is dirty
Dust and dirt surrounding the pilot light, particularly around the pilot light aperture, might cause the pilot light to continuously go out. The hue of the flame will indicate whether or not there is an issue.
Dirty flame
A flame that is a continuous blue cone indicates that everything is in working order. If, on the other hand, the flame is orange or yellow and waving, this indicates that dirt and other impurities are being burned. At that moment, the flame isn’t hot enough to properly heat the contents of the container. Additionally, it increases the likelihood of burnout.
Thermocouple problems
A weak flame will not heat the thermocouple, which is a safety component on your equipment and will not function properly.The thermocouple has the capability of closing the circuit that supplies gas for combustion.In order for your heater to function properly, gas must flow into it and burn in order to create heat.However, if anything isn’t operating properly, the chamber might get overfilled with gas, which can then seep into your home.Consequently, the pilot light keeps the thermocouple warm, which helps to maintain gas circulation.If the pilot light goes out, it does not heat the thermocouple, which then closes to prevent unused gas from accumulating inside the house.
It is possible that if the thermocouple is clogged or worn out, it will not respond to heat and will instead shut off the gas supply.When there isn’t enough gasoline, the pilot light goes out.
Water Heater Repairs in South Jersey
If the pilot light on your water heater keeps going out on a frequent basis, or if you’ve observed any other problems, contact or email us at Broadley’s to schedule an appointment.
Who Should I Call to Fix My Water Heater?
30th of November, 2016 So you’re having some problems with your water heater.Your hesitation to pick up the phone stems from a lack of knowledge on which service provider to call: a plumber, an electrician, or an HVAC technician.So, what’s the solution to this question?It all depends on what the problem is.However, for the most part, you should contact a certified plumber for any and all hot water heater issues.Now, let’s take a look at some particular issues that may need the use of a different specialist.
When to Call a Plumber vs. an Electrician for Water Heater Issues
- In Denver, any plumber who holds a valid license from the Colorado Plumbing Board as well as the City and County of Denver may address practically any water heater-related issues. Why? They’ve received specialized training in all facets of water heater operation (including electrical wiring, piping, heating elements, anode rods, gas lines, etc.) However, if you suspect that your water heater problem is indicative of a broader problem with your home’s electrical system, you should contact an electrician. Some of the issues that may need the use of an electrician are as follows: An overheating water heater that continually triggering the circuit breaker.
- Water heater fuse box that has blown or overheated
- Unstable wiring in water heater systems – this is a common reason of the water heater reset button malfunctioning
- The following are the most typical water heater problems that necessitate the services of a plumber: Weird sounds emanating from your water heater (such as whistles or whistle-like noises)
- The water flowing from the water heater is rusty
- Hot water pressure is low
- there is no hot water.
- The water heater is dripping
- For gas heaters, the pilot light will not stay illuminated
Furnace Pilot Lights & You: What to Do When Your Pilot Light Goes Out
There are times when pilot lights fail, but this is not a reason for alarm.If, on the other hand, your pilot light won’t relight or if it goes out often, it might be a sign that something is amiss.In this post, we’ll go through the reasons why your pilot light turned out, what it may signify, and how to fix the issue.Knowing how to relight your pilot light is a vital skill to have if you are a first-time homeowner.It isn’t difficult, and your furnace may even have instructions (which are normally printed on the access panel) to assist you in completing the process.However, we always recommend that you leave furnace repair, installation, and maintenance concerns to the specialists at all times.
You run the risk of injuring yourself or causing damage to your furnace or home if you do not have the right training.
What is the Pilot Light For?
A pilot light is typically seen on older natural gas furnaces that are still in use today.In the main burner, the pilot light is a tiny, blue flame that is used to ignite the natural gas that is being fed into the appliance.If the heat in your home is turned on by turning on the furnace, gas is released through a valve, where it comes into touch with the pilot light and ignites, resulting in the production of heat.Additionally, the pilot light itself is fuelled by natural gas, which is delivered to it by a little tube in your gas line.As a safety feature, this tube is equipped with a thermocouple, which shuts off the flow of gas if the pilot light fails to illuminate it.This keeps gas from accumulating in your furnace and providing a safety concern to your family.
Why Would My Pilot Light Go Out?
There are a variety of reasons why your pilot light may have gone out. The resolution of certain reasons is straightforward, whilst others are a bit more complicated.
Air Flow Issues
A tiny blast of wind can completely extinguish your pilot light, just as it can extinguish a candle.If this is the case, you may either relight your pilot light or call a professional to assist you with the situation.A strong wind may cause this, or one of your furnace ducts may be leaking air, both of which might cause this to occur.The presence of a draft or the entry of wind into your furnace can occur if your flue or chimney is broken, was not erected properly, or was not appropriately suited for the demands of your heating system.
Your Gas Has Been Shut Off
Because your pilot light is dependent on natural gas to remain lit, if your natural gas is turned off, your pilot light will go out as well. You may either relight your pilot light yourself or ask a professional to do it for you by just turning your gas back on.
Your Furnace Needs a Cleaning
Because of the dirt in the pilot orifice (the small aperture in your gas line that supplies fuel to the pilot light), the efficiency with which your pilot light burns may be compromised.If your pilot light continues to go out, it’s possible that it isn’t getting enough fuel to keep operating properly.Your pilot light should be a brilliant blue color, not red or yellow, to ensure proper operation.It is possible that your pilot light is not getting enough fuel if it has a red or yellow flame.The regular maintenance of your furnace may assist to decrease wear and tear on its components and can even allow you to save money on your heating bill by lowering your energy consumption.Once a year, you should have a professional come in for a maintenance visit and duct cleaning to ensure that your furnace is operating at optimal efficiency.
Your Thermocouple is Loose or Faulty
Continuing to have problems with your pilot light may suggest that your thermocouple is either loose or malfunctioning. If this is the case, your thermocouple will either need to be adjusted or completely replaced.
A Temporary Gas Shortage
It’s possible that the problem isn’t with your furnace at all.High natural gas demand may put a strain on the supply, resulting in a bit less gas being available to distribute.If your furnace is unable to obtain enough natural gas, it may result in the loss of the pilot light in the furnace.If the professional you hired was unable to identify a problem with your furnace, you should contact your utility provider to see whether the problem is on their end.
How Can I Restart My Pilot Light?
If you are not confident in your ability to restart your pilot light, please do not hesitate to get assistance from a professional.Take the following first step: turn off your furnace.Never make any changes to or adjustments to your furnace while it is still operating.Step 2: Identify the location of your gas valve.The majority of gas valves have three settings: on, off, and pilot (pilot is the first setting).Make sure the ″pilot″ knob is in the ″on″ position.
Step 3: Keep your finger on the red button.In most cases, the red button will be situated next to your gas valve.The red button ignites your pilot light by delivering gas to it.Depending on the model of furnace you have, your pilot light will either be automated or manually operated.Manual pilot lights will require an external flame source (such as a long match) in addition to the red button to be re-lit, whereas automatic pilot lights can be re-lit with only the red button.If you have a manual pilot light, hold your match just over the pilot orifice while pressing the red button on the pilot light.
For those who don’t have access to a long-handled match (such as the ones used for lighting grills), you may either use a pair of pliers to hold the match (while keeping your hands away from the flame) or hire a professional to relight your pilot light for you.The manual pilot light on your furnace may be located behind a tiny access panel, which you will need to remove to access it.Step four: Turn on the pilot light.Manual pilot lights should be lit with extreme caution, and the red button should be kept firmly depressed during the process.Continue to press and hold the red button for a total of 60 seconds.
Step 5: Release your grip on the button.Remove your finger off the button slowly.Your pilot light should remain illuminated.If it doesn’t, you may need to bring in an expert to analyze the condition and determine why it isn’t staying lighted properly.Step 6: Reconnect the gas line to your vehicle.Return the gas valve to the ″on″ position by turning it clockwise.
You will lose control of your pilot light if you do not perform this often.Step 7: Re-start your furnace to complete the process.Ensure that any access panels that you removed or opened in order to get to your pilot light are properly closed when you are finished.
When Should I Call a Professional?
When in doubt, it is best to consult with a specialist.It is possible for furnaces to leak deadly gasses into your house if maintenance or repair work is not performed properly.Carbon monoxide, for example, can be released into your home.Everyone is not a certified furnace repair professional, and that is just acceptable!365 days a year, the knowledgeable staff at Mersey Heating & Air Conditioning is here to assist you with your furnace problems.We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Please contact us immediately.We’re a really welcoming group.
Step by Step Guide: How to Light a Water Heater
- Get your hot water heater up and operating in a safe and efficient manner. Get bids from as many as three professionals! Enter your zip code below to get matched with top-rated professionals in your area. You should examine your hot water heater first if your hot shower has turned into freezing rain after you have turned on the hot water. Homes using gas water heaters should check to see whether the pilot light has gone out before using the water heater. The age of your heater may determine whether or not you may use an ignition button or a lighter to relight the pilot light on it. 2 out of 5 on the difficulty scale 15 minutes is allotted for this task. Tools and materials required: flashlight, lighter, and other such items.
How to Relight a Gas Water Heater’s Pilot Light
To relight a hot water heater, just follow the instructions outlined in the following section.
1. Safety First
Even though the vast majority of homeowners are capable of relighting a pilot light on their own, it’s crucial to use caution when working with a gas-powered hot water heater.When relighting a pilot light, you should always proceed with caution since the gas used to power your hot water heater is volatile and possibly deadly.If you smell gas at any time, you should turn off the gas valve immediately and open the windows to let the gas escape.Do not switch on any lights.Leave your home and call the gas company or the fire department for assistance.
2. Turn Off the Gas
First and foremost, you must switch off the gas supply before re-igniting the pilot light. Locate the gas valve on your hot water heater and turn it to the ″off″ position to turn the water off. Hold off for around 10 minutes; this will give any gas in the region time to clear, which is vital because the gas is very combustible, so patience is required.
3. Access the Pilot Light
It is customary for the pilot light to be situated directly beneath the gas valve. In certain circumstances, a door or cover may be placed over the light to prevent it from being seen. While you are doing this procedure, use a flashlight to ensure that you can see everything clearly and accurately.
4. Turn the Gas Valve to ‘Pilot’
Turn the gas valve to the ″pilot″ position and push the button. As a result, the gas valve provides enough gas to ignite the pilot light, which is what you want. If your hot water heater is equipped with a separate pilot button, this is something to look for.
5. Light the Pilot
The method you use to relight the pilot on your gas water heater is determined on the age of the appliance.Gas water heaters manufactured during the last eight years are not required to include manual illumination.Instead, these water heaters are equipped with an electric spark generator, similar to that found in a gas grill.To ignite the pilot light on a water heater that has a pilot light ignition button, you should press the button until the pilot light illuminates.If your water heater does not have such a button, you’ll have to manually ignite it with a long lighter if it does not have one.
6. Turn On the Gas
Once the pilot light has been lighted, re-ignite the gas supply.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask a Professional
If you want assistance, get assistance from a local water heater technician, particularly if your hot water heater requires manual ignition. Most service providers will charge a set price every visit, which will normally cover the cost of relighting a gas water heater in the event that one is required. The cost of this service call might range between $80 and $100.
FAQs About Hot Water Heaters
What causes lukewarm water?
Photograph by Hmzalldesign/iStock / Getty Images Plus courtesy of Getty Images A malfunction with your hot water heater might be the cause of the lukewarm water you’re experiencing.It might be a sign that your water heater is going to malfunction, that sediment has accumulated, or that the temperature has been adjusted improperly.In order to establish the specific nature of the problem, you need consult with a water heater repair professional.
How much does it cost to repair a hot water heater?
The cost to repair a hot water heater can range from $225 to $960 depending on the model. The cost of repairing a water heater varies based on where you reside and what is wrong with it. In certain circumstances, it may be more cost effective to replace your hot water heater rather than repair it.
How do I maintain my water heater?
The following are some measures you can do to keep your hot water heater in good working order: examine your water heater on a regular basis; rinse out the tank.
What to Do If Your Pilot Light Goes Out
Pilot lights are typically seen on older-model furnaces, and while they provide a very critical function, they may also represent a serious safety threat if they fail to operate properly.instructions for relighting the pilot light are often available either fastened to the device itself or in the original owner’s handbook, depending on the manufacturer.Knowing what to do if your pilot light goes out, as well as when to contact for service or repair, may assist to keep your house and family safe and warm throughout the winter months.In the event that you are unable to keep the flame lit, or if you have any other questions or concerns about your heating or cooling system, call Rick’s Heating & Cooling for assistance or emergency repair 24 hours a day.
How Does A Pilot Light Work?
In older model furnaces, a number of components work together to ensure that the supply of natural gas to the appliance is constant as needed.When heat is required and the furnace is turned ″on,″ a valve opens and gas is released to the main burner, where it is ignited by the pilot light.When a little amount of gas is funneled via a small tube in the gas pipe, a small blue flame is formed that burns indefinitely and is continuously lit.As a precaution, the tube is equipped with a valve that, when closed by the thermocouple, prevents gas from accumulating within your home.
What Causes A Pilot Light To Go Out?
- There are a variety of reasons why your pilot light may have gone out of service. Some of these you may be able to correct on your own, while others would necessitate the assistance of a specialist. Draft. A quick or constant surge of air might easily extinguish the pilot light that is currently in operation. Once the fire has been re-lit, inspect the surrounding area for the source of the draft in order to avoid it from re-occurring in the future.
- Thermocouple has failed.
- If your pilot light goes out on a regular basis, this is most likely the cause. As a result of a failure of this flame sensor, gas will continue to flow even after the pilot light has been out, constituting a serious safety danger that must be addressed immediately.
- The pilot orifice is clogged with dirt.
- If the flame is feeble yellow instead of blue when you relight the pilot light, it is possible that the pilot orifice is clogged with dirt. If you require expert assistance, contact Rick’s Heating & Cooling.
What Should You Do If Your Pilot Light Goes Out?
The controls for the pilot light, as well as the assembly instructions and lighting instructions, are normally situated at the front of the device for convenient access. If you are unable to obtain the manufacturer’s instructions, the following basic guidelines might be followed: 1.
- The pilot light assembly, which includes the gas valve with three settings (on, off, and pilot), as well as the pilot reset button, should be located.
- To turn off the valve, turn it to the ″Off″ position and wait several minutes.
- Rotate the valve to the ″Pilot″ position and press the pilot reset button while holding a BBQ lighter or long match at the pilot opening
- Continue to hold the button down until the flame is lighted and burning vigorously, then release it and switch the gas valve to the ″On″ position if necessary.
- In the case that the flame does not remain lit, turn the gas valve to the ″Off″ position and contact a service technician.
Emergency Furnace Repair In Morrow, OH
Rick’s Heating & Cooling’s highly trained professionals can assist you with any and all of your heating needs, including problems with your pilot light, at any time of day or night. Give us a call at 513-899-6005 or fill out our online form to schedule service.
How Do I Know If My Pilot Light Is Out?
Recently, we got the following query from a Chapel Hill resident: Greetings, Air Experts!The other night, as I was preparing to retire for the night, I noticed that the temperature in my home was beginning to drop.That’s when I realized how silent it was…my furnace wasn’t even on at that point!I looked at the thermostat and noticed that it was turned on and set to 71 degrees — yet the temperature outside was only 67 degrees.As a result, I realized I couldn’t merely deal with it in the morning when the temperature was 38 degrees outside and predicted to drop to 27 degrees later that day.
I phoned my friend Steve, who is well-versed in this subject matter, and asked him what I should do next.He advised me to check to see if the pilot light on my furnace was still glowing.I did so.I went up to the attic with a flashlight in hand and began exploring.Then I noticed two things: 1) it’s significantly cooler in the attic than it is in the home, and 2) it was the first time I had ever looked at my furnace in detail.I had no idea where the pilot light was or how to check to see whether it was on.
I was completely lost.What I was searching for, I had no idea what it was – I’m embarrassed to say that I was seeking for some sort of light bulb.I gave up my search after being defeated and contacted Steve once again.After some persuasion, he decided to come and take a look around.When he arrived, he proceeded to climb the stairs to the attic.
Soon after, I heard a woosh, and the furnace was back in operation!I have no clue what type of magic he used to enchant the audience.I want to be prepared in the event that something like this happens again, especially considering Steve doesn’t seem to be answering his phone after 9 p.m.anymore.So, please tell me: how can I know if my pilot light is out?– Andy J., Chapel Hill, North Carolina.
Andy, thank you for posing the question!Don’t be embarrassed if you don’t know much about furnaces; many homeowners aren’t knowledgeable about them because it isn’t their area of expertise.It’s a good idea to become familiar with the fundamental components of your furnace and to check on it on a regular basis, but be prepared to call in a reputable HVAC repair business for the majority of failures.When your furnace stops working, there are a few simple actions you may do to investigate the problem before calling for professional assistance.Starting with a visual inspection of the pilot light is a nice place to start, and it is a very simple remedy for the time being.
- To find out why your pilot light keeps going out, you’ll need to consult with a qualified technician.
- In most cases, relighting the pilot light will restore your heating system’s functionality right away.
- This will give you the opportunity to get a decent night’s sleep before contacting for repair assistance the next morning.
- Let’s talk about what to do the next time something like this occurs:
What Is the Pilot Light?
Andy’s befuddlement is reasonable; most of the time, when we talk about ″lights″ in machines or appliances, we are referring to the light bulbs they contain.The pilot light, on the other hand, is a real, old-fashioned flame that burns within your furnace.You should keep this flame blazing at all times because it is provided by your gas line.A signal is sent to your furnace by your thermostat when the temperature in your home falls below the intended level.Fuel (gas) is released into the burner by your furnace, and the pilot light ignites the gas released into the burner.To put it another way, your pilot light is in charge of igniting your fuel supply, which is how your furnace produces heat.
If it fails, the safety systems of your furnace will prevent it from releasing gas into the burner, resulting in the furnace not being able to operate at all.
How to Tell If the Pilot Light Is Out
Is it possible to tell whether your furnace has stopped operating because the pilot light has gone out?The only way to find out is to have a check at your furnace, as Andy did.Check your pilot light by following the methods outlined below: IMPORTANT: If you detect a strong odor of natural gas, do not proceed any farther into the building.Leave your home and phone the emergency number provided by your utility provider to have your gas turned off.Then contact a reputable HVAC provider to do an investigation.
- Find the front cover panel on your furnace and remove it. It should be a small door that is plainly seen from the outside. Open it
- if your pilot light is on, it should be simple to notice – your eyes will be drawn to the little flame
- if your pilot light is off, open it again.
- In the absence of a flame, your pilot light is not working.
- If there is a flame, look to see what color it is. The color of the pilot lights should always be blue. Having a weird hue might indicate that the burner assembly is rusted or unclean, and therefore has to be cleaned. Contact a reputable HVAC firm for routine maintenance services:
How to Relight the Pilot Light in Your Furnace
If you notice that your pilot light has gone out, relighting it is a pretty straightforward procedure that will allow you to restore your heating as soon as possible.It’s advisable to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for further information.Some furnace manufacturers publish these instructions on a label that is attached to the furnace’s outside surface.If you are unable to locate them, see the unit’s handbook.If you don’t have the handbook, look for the brand name and model number of your furnace, then go to the manufacturer’s website to get the manual or instructions on how to relight the pilot light if you don’t have one.Before attempting to relight the pilot light, make sure that your thermostat is turned all the way down or completely off.
The majority of furnaces follow a very standard procedure.To begin, you’ll need to identify the real pilot light, which might be difficult to do when the pilot light isn’t turned on.Seek out a small, curved, open metal tube that appears to be pointing at another metal tube in the distance.Once again, it’s advisable to follow a schematic given by the manufacturer to ensure that all of the components are properly located.Once you’ve determined where the pilot light is located, you’ll typically follow these steps:
- A switch or knob with three settings (On, Pilot, and Off) should be sought after.
- Make sure the switch is turned off and that all gas has been expelled before turning it back on.
- When you’re ready to relight it, turn the knob to the ″pilot″ position.
- While igniting the pilot light with a long match or lighter, keep your finger on the reset button (which may also be the knob you’ve been twisting). Continue to hold down the reset button for a short period of time (typically 60 seconds) after the flame has been ignited.
- Release the reset button after 60 seconds and look for the pilot light to illuminate. If it continues to burn, you’ve accomplished something wonderful! Turn the knob to the ″on″ position.
Pilot Light Problems
Your furnace will require expert assistance to relight the pilot light if you attempt to do so and the pilot light does not remain lit after you release the reset button.If your pilot light remains lit for a period of time before going out again, this is another indication that it is due for maintenance or repairs.But, after all, don’t you feel relieved that you didn’t have to call for assistance right away?You may now call in the professionals, confident in the knowledge that you done everything you could to prepare yourself first.Is your furnace in Raleigh, North Carolina experiencing pilot light issues?For emergency furnace repair or furnace maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact our HVAC specialists at Air Expert to get your furnace back in working condition.
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.
After turning off the pilot, it’s crucial to give it some time to cool off completely before attempting to re-light it. This allows the gas to drain from the chamber, preventing you from accidentally igniting additional gas while re-igniting the pilot. A minute to two minutes should be plenty time.
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.