Why Wont My Water Heater Pilot Light Stay Lit? - ERNIEGRAVES

8 Reasons Why Your Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

For those of you who aren’t technicians, I can imagine that there’s nothing more frustrating than trying to keep a pilot light lit when it won’t remain lit for whatever reason at that moment.
Along with interfering with the proper operation of the furnace, it can also hinder you from enjoying the luxury of a hot morning shower.
There are a variety of reasons why your pilot light keeps flickering on and off repeatedly.
We’ll do our best to cover all of the probable explanations for your heater’s current state of malfunction.

Continue reading to the conclusion of the blog so that you may be informed of the causes for the errors and learn how to avoid them in the future.Following a discussion of the underlying reasons, we will offer some suggestions for potential remedies that you may utilize to resolve the issue.

Why Does Your Heater’s Pilot Light Keep Going Off?

The following are the most typical reasons why the pilot light on your heater won’t remain lit:

1. Obstructed Thermocouple

The thermocouple is used in the operation of the majority of newly produced water heaters.
This component is the primary cause for the operation of your water heater; it also determines whether the pilot light is on or off by drawing electricity from the heat generated by the pilot.
When the thermocouple senses that the pilot light is not lit, it automatically shuts off the gas as a safety precaution.
It is also possible that an unlit pilot is caused by a dirty thermocouple, since the dirt may be obscuring the current signal, which would result in a gas leak.

Maintain the cleanliness of your thermocouple: While it is possible to clean your thermocouple, you must first ensure that the gas valve is turned off, as you do not want to risk causing it to leak while cleaning.The thermocouple may be found and cleaned with relative ease.

2. Bent Thermocouple

The thermocouple can get curved or bent to the point that it begins to lose the heat signal generated by the electrical current, in addition to being dusty and grimy and becoming bent.
The thermocouple may have bent too far away from the pilot in the majority of cases, which is problematic since it will not be able to detect the heat signal.
Make sure your thermocouple is straight: Normally, the flame is meant to come into contact with the thermocouple just enough for it to detect heat.
It is possible to correct a bent thermocouple by bending it back towards the pilot, if you discover that it is bent.

Don’t forget to wait for it to cool down before you start working on it.

3. Damaged Thermocouple

Another cause for your pilot not to be lit might be due to a faulty thermocouple in the ignition system.
If you inspect the thermocouple and find it to be clean, filthy, or curved, it is possible that it has been damaged.
Removing the thermocouple and testing it with a multimeter will help to confirm your assumptions.
Before removing the thermocouple, make sure that the gas is switched off and that the thermocouple is completely cold before doing so.

If the voltage it produces is less than 20 MV, it is considered damaged.Solutions for a Damaged Thermocouple: A damaged thermocouple is rather technical, and as such, you may require the assistance of an experienced technician if you do not have such training.When a thermocouple is just slightly damaged, it is possible to repair it.If the damage is severe enough, you may be forced to replace it.

4. Dirty Pilot Tube

A filthy pilot tube may be a contributing factor to the malfunctioning of your water heater if you have already tested the thermocouple and found it to be in good working order, as previously stated.
You might be asking how this prevents your tankless gas water heater from functioning properly.
Your pilot tube may be clogged or completely blocked by dirt, and the gas will be unable to flow as it should as a result.
Remove the pilot tube and clean it: If this is the case, your pilot tube will require extensive cleaning in order to perform correctly.

Once all of the appropriate measures have been taken, a tiny needle should be used to clean the pilot tube.Keep an eye out for huge objects, since they may be the most common cause of accidents.When you’re finished, turn on the heater and check to see whether the pilot light remains lit.If it doesn’t, take the tube out and clean it well again.

5. Flex Tube Defects

This is another another possible explanation for why your pilot’s light is not working.
The flex tube is responsible for delivering gas to the device, and if the continuous flow of gas is disrupted, the pilot light will fail to illuminate.
When the tube is kinked at one or more spots, this is the most common occurrence.
Check the flex tube for damage: Check the tube along its length to ensure that it is straight and there is no restriction to the passage of gas.

However, if this does not resolve the issue, you may be forced to replace the tube totally, which would be costly.Before you resort to changing the tubes, be certain that you’ve checked all of the other possibilities first, because flex tube problems are less common in general.

6. Main Control Valve

A defective main control might be the source of the pilot light’s inability to remain lit.
This is still another issue that happens less frequently, so you must rule out all other possibilities before concluding that the error is due to the primary control system.
If you’re not sure about something, check the controls with your multimeter.
To replace the control valve, follow these steps: Control valves are frequently repaired by technicians, even if the valve itself is not malfunctioning.

However, if you want your water heater to run as long as possible and if you want to save future costs, you might think about replacing the main control valve altogether instead.

7. Faulty Electrical System

Most of the blame for this problem may be placed on electric water heaters.
This problem is frequently caused by incorrect wiring of the internal electronics.
A badly connected electrical water heater has a tendency to blow the fuse and short circuit the circuits, which are the two most common problems that an electric water heater encounters.
It is common for a malfunctioning electrical system to be identified by a breaker shutdown, which results in the water heater being shut off without the user’s knowledge.

What to do to repair it: If you have reason to believe that there is a problem with the electrical wiring, you should get it checked by a professional.If you do not have sufficient experience, do not attempt to repair it yourself.

8. A faulty burner

If your water heater’s burner is malfunctioning, it is possible that this may have an impact on ignition, which may result in the pilot light going out.
What to do to repair it: In the vast majority of situations, it is preferable to replace the burner totally; however, you may do some basic inspections first.
Turn on your hot water faucet and wait for the burner to come to life, which should take 4 to 5 minutes.
To test if the burner ignites after trying this, try moving to a lower temperature and then back to the original setting.

If it doesn’t, it’s time to get another one.

How to Re-Ignite the Pilot Light

Every water heater is included with a set of instructions for use.
Because you will be working with gas, you should act with utmost caution before proceeding with this step.
Set your thermostat on the heat setting and raise the temperature to around 80 degrees to keep it running.
Look for the pilot valve on your furnace and attempt to locate the on/off switch.

Once you find the switch, turn it to the ″off″ position.The pilot light should be located near to the gas burner tube; pay particular attention to it.Initiate the flame with a long match while simultaneously switching the knob to ″pilot″ and holding it in that position for 35 seconds.Once the pilot is activated, return the knob to the ″on″ position.If the preceding approach fails to produce results, repeat the operation while increasing the waiting period to 60 seconds.

Using this method, you can ensure that the thermocouple heats up sufficiently to notify the pilot light to illuminate.This is referred to as ″jump-starting″ the thermocouple in some circles.If you repeat the process five times and the result remains the same, it is possible that there are additional issues at play.

Take advantage of your warranty

Most water heaters are covered by a 1- or 2-year guarantee in the majority of instances. If your pilot light malfunctions during this time period, you may always return to the store where you purchased it and get it repaired there. This is quite advantageous since, in the majority of situations, they will be able to fix any broken equipment or even completely replace the water heater.

Hire a technician

Depending on whether your water heater has outlived its warranty time and if you’ve carried out all of the recommended maintenance and adjustments, this may be your only option.
While most homeowners would consider this a last choice, it is important to remember that the majority of individuals are not DIY enthusiasts.
Additionally, dealing with gas and electricity is quite delicate, which is why you should exercise extreme caution.
Hiring a professional may result in more charges, but it may also result in you being safer, which should be your number one priority.

To be sure, employing a professional or a handyman will prevent you from damaging anything else, which will result in a more expensive repair bill later on.A technician also has the ability to predict potential problems in the future and to provide advise or solutions to help avoid them.

Final thoughts

It is possible for a variety of things to go wrong and for your pilot light to fail to stay illuminated.
The thermocouple, pilot tube, flex tube, and main control valve, on the other hand, are the traditional suspects in this case.
The advice in this blog should assist you in resolving these challenges, or at the very least in determining the root cause of the problem.
If nothing seems to work, you should seek the services of a qualified specialist to repair the pilot light.

Have you ever had to deal with a pilot who was unable to light his or her engine?We would appreciate it if you could share your ideas in the comments area below.

Help, My Pilot Light Won’t Light or Stay Lit! Do THIS.

Let’s begin by discussing what the water heater pilot light is and how it works so that you may better grasp how it works. An electric pilot light is a tiny flame that is provided in order to start the gas burner on a water heater. The color of a functioning pilot light should be blue, which can assist you in determining whether or not your pilot light is functioning properly.

My Pilot Light Won’t Light on Water Heater, What Now?

Need help on what to do when your gas water heater’s pilot light won’t light or when your gas water heater’s pilot light keeps going out?
This does not necessarily indicate that a water heater repair or replacement in Arlington TX is required, though.
When the pilot light on a gas water heater goes out, you should know how to relight the pilot light on the water heater.
The first step is self-explanatory: try to re-ignite the pilot light on your water heater.

First and foremost, attempt to light it again before concluding that there is a severe problem with the appliance.A demonstration of how to turn on your water heater’s pilot light is shown in the video below.

Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out?

Remember to read and follow the instructions on the water heater’s label!
If your pilot won’t re-light, won’t remain lighted, or continues going out after a short period of time, you most likely have a problem with the thermocouple in your hot water heating system.
This is something that can happen as you become older.
More information on the life expectancy of water heaters can be found in this page titled How long do water heaters last?

Let’s have a look at how to identify whether a thermocouple is faulty in the section below.

How to Determine If You Have Gas Hot Water Heater Thermocouple Issues

At the heart of your water heater is a thermocouple, which detects heat emanating from the pilot light and regulates the flow of gas to the burner.
When a thermocouple fails, gas will be cut off to both the pilot and the burner, which is when people realize that the water heater pilot light has gone out in the first place.
The pilot light on your water heater works in conjunction with the rest of the unit.
When your thermocouple senses that the pilot light on your water heater is not lit, it immediately turns off the gas to your water heater as a safety measure.

The likelihood of your item being damaged increases if you establish that your thermocouple is actually broken — that is, there are no indicators of being bent or unclean.You will need to replace the equipment or have it professionally fixed in order to resolve this problem.This is an excellent opportunity to clear up any misunderstandings.

How to Replace Thermocouple on Water Heater?

Water heater repairs are something that HVAC firms are occasionally called upon to do.
While some people are capable of doing this procedure, it is recommended that you get a certified plumber to assist you.
If you’re in the area, we’re a plumber in Arlington TX who can change the thermocouple in your hot water heater on a regular basis for you.
However, there is some good news.

Most thermocouples may be replaced at a low cost and in a short period of time, sometimes in less than an hour, by a capable homeowner with some basic tools.

Determining the Thermocouple Issue If It’s Not Broken

Your thermocouple, on the other hand, may not necessarily be faulty.
If it’s contaminated, the electric current from the pilot may be disturbed, resulting in a gas leak from the pilot.
This is a simple problem to solve.
The following are the steps to cleaning your thermocouple: Locate the thermocouple and clean it with a piece of sandpaper once it has been cleaned.

Always remember to turn off the gas before you begin cleaning, and to make sure that your thermocouple is completely cold before you begin cleaning.If your attempt at water heater thermocouple cleaning fails to resolve the problem, it is possible that the thermocouple is bent.When it is bent to a certain degree away from the pilot light, it ceases to work since it will no longer be able to detect heat.This is likewise a straightforward fix: simply bend the thermocouple back into its original position.As a last step, bend the thermocouple back until it is close enough to the pilot flame that the thermocouple is faintly touched by the flame.

If this is the case, the problem is usually simply resolved by following the procedures outlined above.

When Not to Replace Your Thermocouple

In the case of a gas water heater with a closed burner chamber or one that does not have a pilot light, entry will be far more difficult. In order to replace this sort of thermocouple, you will almost certainly require the assistance of a specialist.

Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit?

If you have followed these steps and your water heater pilot light still won’t stay lit, you may require professional assistance to resolve the issue.
If you live in Arlington TX, give All Masters a call and we will be happy to assist you with any of your hot water heater thermocouple or pilot light issues!
In the Arlington and broader DFW region, you may ask about troubleshooting why your pilot light isn’t working correctly over the phone using our new video chat application.
Call (817) 200-4703 for more information.

7 Reasons Why Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

Water heaters are one of the most important items in every household.
However, when the water heater pilot light won’t remain lit, it may be quite aggravating.
If you are not a plumber or expert, we can imagine that dealing with a water heater pilot light that keeps going out, rather than a thermocouple, is the most frustrating issue you are dealing with right now.
Aside from impairing the proper operation of the furnace, it can also prevent you from receiving steaming hot water for your first shower of the day in the morning.

There are a variety of reasons why the pilot light fails on a regular basis.We will make every effort to inform you of all of the possible reasons why your unit is in such poor condition, as well as simple treatments that you may be able to do on your own.We always recommend that you use a professional service for complicated or potentially dangerous repairs, such as a plumber or a gas company.In this case, we will inform you of the difficulties that should only be handled by professionals.

7 Reasons Why Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

Thermocouple

If your natural gas water heating equipment goes off often, it is possible that you have a defective thermocouple in your system.
Most gas-powered types use a standing pilot to ignite the burner, which is common in the industry.
In order for the pilot assembly to function properly, both the main gas valve and the thermocouple must be operational.
The thermocouple is a heat-detecting probe that is used to measure temperature.

It is an important component of the pilot assembly, and it is attached just above the pilot flame when assembled.It is possible that the thermocouple will generate a small current that will be sent back to the gas valve, which will keep the gas flowing to the pilot light if everything is operating properly.However, if the thermocouple is broken, it will not be able to recognize the flame, and the gas valve will not be able to receive the necessary power signal to maintain the gas flowing to the pilot assembly.It will eventually trip off the pilot flame since it will remain consistently in the pilot flame.To test the thermocouple, you’ll need to use specialized testing equipment.

The most effective method of troubleshooting is to replace the component.Before censuring the thermocouple, make sure that the pilot flame is clean and thoroughly connects with the probe’s end on the other end.You will not have to deal with any gas fittings while you are changing it.Local protocols, on the other hand, may dictate that a specialist plumber be called in to remedy the problem.

Burner

Another key factor to consider when the pilot light on a water heater keeps going out is the burner.
It heats the water by burning the entering gas, which produces steaming warm water.
A faulty pilot light will result in improper operation of the pilot light.
We do not recommend that you attempt to repair or replace the burner on your own, but you can test it to determine if this is a potential problem.

To begin, turn on the warm water faucet and let it run for a few minutes.Proceed to the unit and pay close attention for the sound of the burner turning on.It is typically accompanied by a whump or whoosh sound.Unless you hear any sound, it is a definite indication that your burner is faulty.Obtain the services of a professional to thoroughly check it and replace any malfunctioning components.

Dirty Pilot Tube

If your water heater’s pilot would not light, it is possible that the pilot tube is clogged with debris.
If you’re wondering how dirt might interfere with your device’s operation, consider that your pilot tube may be partially or completely clogged by dirt, preventing the gas from traveling as it should.
In such a circumstance, it is necessary to thoroughly clean the area in order for it to function properly.
As soon as you have taken the required safety steps, clean the tube with a little needle.

Keep an eye out for huge items, since they may be the most significant reason of a water heater failing to stay lighted.As soon as you’re finished, check the tankless water heater to verify if the pilot light continues to glow.If the water heater pilot fails to ignite, remove the tubing and thoroughly clean it.

Flex Tube Problems

It’s also possible that a flex tubing is causing the water heater pilot to continuously going out.
This tube connects directly to the gas controller, ensuring a consistent flow of gas.
Nonetheless, the pipe turns around from time to time, preventing the required system function from being performed.
To get rid of the problem in this situation, untangle the tube.

If this does not resolve the issue, the tube should be replaced.When compared to thermocouple difficulties, flex tubing concerns are quite infrequent.

Main Thermostatic Control Or Gas Valve

The thermostatic control or gas valve may also be the source of the pilot light going off on a consistent basis.
It is referred to as the primary control valve in some circles.
Even though this problem only occurs seldom, it is a probable reason of a water heater pilot light failing to stay lit.
Professional knowledge and skills are also required to solve this challenge.

They will use a multimeter to properly check the part to determine whether or not it is defective.If the answer is true, they will either repair or replace the defective element.

Lack Of Combustible Air

Another reason why the pilot light on a water heater won’t remain lit is a lack of combustible air flow.
Your device need air to maintain the pilot light burning; otherwise, it will shut off the electricity supply.
Check to be that your gadget is not surrounded by dirt, debris, or other contaminants that might increase the quantity of flammable air available to it.
You should keep the area around your heater as clean as possible.

Electrical System Defect

In addition, sloppy wiring might make it impossible for the pilot light to stay lit.
When comparing electric water heaters to gas water heaters, this is a problem that arises more frequently.
Your equipment may face a variety of electrical problems if the wiring is incorrect.
This means that you will not be able to acquire hot water in such circumstances.

If your appliance develops an electrical fault, the breaker shutdown will immediately shut down the main breaker to protect the appliance.As a result, consult with a specialist or a plumber to have the electrical wiring checked.

What Should You Do If The Hot Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out?

DIY Method

All water heaters are shipped with a set of installation instructions.
You should take safety precautions before attempting to repair your gadget because you will be working with gas and electricity.
Set the thermostat to the heat setting of 80 degrees and leave it there.
Locate the pilot valve on the furnace and the on/off handle, and turn the on/off handle to the ″off″ position.

Locate the pilot light, which should be near the gas burner tube at this point.Turn on the flame and turn the handle to the pilot position, holding it there for 35 seconds.Once the pilot has ignited, turn the handle to the ″on″ position.If this approach does not work, repeat the procedure, but this time wait for 60 seconds instead of 35 seconds the first time you tried it.As a result, the thermocouple heats up to the point where it signals the pilot light to turn on.

If you try this procedure five times and the water heater pilot light does not stay lit, it is possible that there is a problem with the water heater itself.

Claim The Warranty

Many water heaters come with a guarantee of one or two years. If the pilot light on your water heater does not come on during this time, you should contact the manufacturer to have the problem rectified. This is quite advantageous since they will repair any malfunctioning parts, as well as the heater in its whole.

Hire A Professional

Assume that the warranty term for your device has expired and that you have completed all of the required inspections and adjustments as outlined in this tutorial.
In such scenario, now is the best time to call in a professional plumber for assistance.
Many homeowners may view it as a last resort; nonetheless, you should be aware that the majority of people are unable to do DIY projects successfully.
As an added precaution, because you will be dealing with gas and electricity, you should use extreme caution.

Although hiring an expert may incur additional costs, doing so will ensure the safety of you and your family, which should be your main concern.On the other hand, hiring a professional plumber ensures that you don’t damage anything, which will result in a more expensive repair bill later on down the road.A handyperson can see an upcoming problem and provide some advice on how to avoid it from occurring.Conclusion It is possible that a variety of factors contribute to the failure of the water heater pilot light to remain lit.The thermocouple, a shortage of combustible air, a thermostatic control or a gas valve, a pilot tube, a flex tube, and other faults are the most frequently encountered.

The advice in this article should assist you in troubleshooting these issues or in determining the root cause of the problem.You should seek the assistance of a professional plumber to repair the pilot light if nothing appears to work in your favor.

5 Reasons Why Your Gas Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

Imagine that the warranty time on your device has expired and you have completed all of the required examinations and changes as outlined in this tutorial.
What happens now?
A professional plumber should be called in at this point because the situation calls for it.
Many homeowners may view it as a last resort; nonetheless, it is important to remember that the majority of people are unable to do DIY tasks successfully on their own.

Additionally, because you will be working with gas and electricity, you should exercise particular caution.It may be more expensive to hire a professional, but doing so will ensure the safety of you and your family, which should be your number one concern.On the other hand, hiring a professional plumber ensures that you don’t damage anything, which will result in a more expensive repair bill later on down the line.When a problem is about to occur, a handyperson can identify it and provide some prevention advice.Conclusion There might be a variety of reasons why the water heater pilot light will not stay lighted.

The thermocouple, a shortage of combustible air, a thermostatic control or a gas valve, a pilot tube, a flex tube, and other similar problems are the most frequently seen.The suggestions in this article should assist you in troubleshooting these issues or in determining the root cause of the problem in question.It’s best to hire an experienced plumber to fix the pilot light if nothing seems to be working for you.

5 Reasons Why Your Gas Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

04-Mar-2017

Consider the following scenario: you wake up in the morning and your water has failed to heat.
What are you going to do?
You have no choice but to face the elements and embrace the bone-chilling cold if you don’t want to start the day without a bath or shower.
When the pilot light on your gas water heater won’t remain lit, this is precisely what you may expect to see happen.

In spite of your best efforts, you may still have the pilot light turning out.a) So, what really is the situation?Here are five reasons why your pilot light won’t remain lit, as well as solutions to the problem.If you want assistance with your water heater and are unsure of the nature of the problem, please let us know what you require and one of our specialists will be in touch.

The thermocouple has been distorted. Located at the bottom of the water heater in the pilot assembly is a thermocouple that regulates the temperature of the water heater. Made of a tiny rod and copper wire, it acts as a safety device, allowing the gas to be turned off in the event of an emergency. When the pilot light is operating properly, it will strike the thermocouple rod, which will create a little electrical current that will keep the gas valve open. It is possible that the thermocouple will be twisted too far away from the pilot, resulting in the failure of the complete water heater. If you take the right safety precautions and turn off your gas, you may be able to bend the thermocouple back into its normal position again.
The thermocouple is contaminated beyond repair. If the thermocouple is filthy, you may notice a reduction in the amount of electrical current that is produced. Dirt and grime are not ordinary to encounter, and cleaning them should not be too time-consuming or complicated. Once again, take safety measures by shutting off your gas and making sure the thermocouple is cool to the touch before proceeding. Use a piece of sandpaper to remove any dirt or grime from the surface for the best results.
Damage to the thermocouple has occurred. There is a possibility that your thermocouple has simply failed and is the cause of your pilot light failing to illuminate. If you’re reasonably convinced that the thermocouple is the source of the problem, you’ll need to get it replaced or fixed as soon as possible. Fortunately for you, the parts required for the replacement/repair should be less than $20, and the time required to do the repair will be minimal. You will be able to save money on labor costs as a result of this. Make use of a multimeter to check the voltage going through the thermocouple to verify it is not damaged. Any thermocouple voltage value less than 20 MV indicates a faulty thermocouple.
The pilot tube is clogged with dirt. A typical occurrence is the accumulation of dirt and debris in the pilot tube. If an excessive amount of gas accumulates, the flow of gas may get obstructed. Fortunately, cleaning out the pilot tube is not difficult, and you may complete it without the aid of a professional. In order to begin the operation, switch off the gas and allow the tube to cool for several minutes. Once the gas has cooled, use a needle to remove away anything that could be obstructing the passage of gas. After everything has been thoroughly cleaned out, re-ignite the gas and check to see whether the pilot lights up. It goes without saying that if it does not, your problem is most likely not caused by the pilot tube.
A problem has been identified with the flex tube. The flex tube is responsible for connecting the gas controller to the rest of the system. A problem with the flex tube is less prevalent, but it might cause a reduction in the amount of gas that can be used by the system. Check to see if there are any kinks in the tube, and if there are, undo the kinks to see if it helps to resolve the issue. A new piece of tubing will very certainly be required if eliminating the kink does not alleviate the situation.

Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit Still?

It is possible that your pilot light may not stay lit even after you have done everything.
In this case, you should contact with a professional plumber.
Our network of plumbers on Great Pros are experienced in the installation and repair of gas water heaters and will have no trouble aiding you.
Each specialist has been thoroughly screened and is appropriately licensed, insured, and bonded to ensure that there will be no issues with trust.

5 Reasons Why Your Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit (and How to Fix)

Please keep in mind that this content may contain affiliate links.
This means that, at no additional cost to you, we may gain a small profit on purchases made via our links.
Below is a list of the top five reasons your pilot won’t stay on the flight, as well as solutions for each problem.
Important Important: Before performing any of these diagnostics or repairs, switch off the gas and wait at least five minutes for the gas pressure and fumes to dissipate before starting the engine.

Generally speaking, this is a decent rule of thumb for relighting the pilot in general, and not simply for diagnostic purposes.

Reason 1: Dirty Pilot Tube

Dirt and debris can accumulate in the pilot tube, preventing the flow of gas from flowing properly. As a result, the pilot does not receive enough fuel to keep the engine running. If the pilot will not ignite at all, this is also a plausible explanation. Fortunately, a clogged pilot tube is the most straightforward problem to resolve.

How to Fix

All that is required is a needle to be inserted into the pilot hole and carefully removed from the hole.
If there is a significant amount of material in the tube, it may take many attempts to finish the procedure.
Lighting the pilot and watching to see whether it lights properly and remains lighted is all that is required to determine whether or not this step was successful.
A flame that is in good health will be blue in hue.

Reason 2: Kink in the Flex Tube

The fuel is sent to the flex tube by the gas controller.
On rare occasions, the tube might get kinked, preventing the flow of gas from continuing.
This is one of the most typical reasons why the burner won’t stay lit, even though the pilot appears to be in proper operating condition.
Although it is not as prevalent as thermocouple problems, it is a simple remedy and should be ruled out as soon as possible.

How to Fix

Perhaps the simplest problem to resolve, you only need to search for any kinks in the tube and unkink them, as seen in the picture. If the problem persists, it is possible that you are experiencing a problem with the thermocouple.

Reason 3: Obstruction in the Thermocouple

Thermocouple issues are very prevalent, and this component is frequently the source of the problem when the water heater’s pilot light keeps blinking.
This gadget is meant to detect the presence or absence of a pilot light by picking up an electrical signal from the heat generated by the pilot light.
When dirt particles get in the way of this signal, it might cause it to be distorted, leading the thermocouple to assume that the pilot has gone out of range.
It then takes the precautionary step of shutting down the gas supply.

How to Fix

Check to see that the thermocouple is completely cool to the touch. Afterwards, use a piece of fine grit sandpaper and gently rub the surface to remove any dust that has accumulated over time. This should confirm that the component is correctly functioning. However, if this procedure is unsuccessful in resolving the issue, thermocouple replacement may be required owing to component failure.

Reason 4: Damaged Thermocouple

This is a more serious issue, since it may necessitate the replacement of the component. Damage may manifest itself in the form of the sensor being bent too far away from the pilot light, or it may indicate that the entire unit is no longer operable.

How to Fix

Take a look at the thermocouple.
When the pilot is ignited, the sensor at the end of the hose should faintly contact the flame.
It may become bent away from the flame; if this happens, gently bend it back.
Using a multimeter, check that the thermocouple is in good working order and does not exhibit any symptoms of damage.

The value should be more than 20MV.Any reading that is lower than this is a strong indication that the thermocouple itself has been damaged and must be replaced immediately.

Reason 5: Main Control Valve

This is the problem that you want to avoid at all costs among the ones that you can diagnose on your own.
The quickest and most straightforward method of diagnosing a faulty control valve is to exhaust all other possibilities first.
Given that all other possibilities have been checked out and that the thermocouple is displaying data on the multimeter, this is probably definitely the cause of the problem.

How to Fix

Control valves that have failed can only be repaired or replaced if they are completely destroyed. This can be more expensive than other do-it-yourself difficulties, and it can be more challenging for individuals who are not familiar with this type of job.

When All Else Fails

Almost every one of the problems listed above may be identified and corrected by the typical homeowner.
However, there may be rare instances in which the pilot refuses to stay on even after you’ve exhausted all of the above-mentioned possibilities.
In such extreme circumstances, the only option is to bring in a professional to thoroughly inspect the water heater.
The worst-case situation may need the replacement of the entire heater, but the problem is most typically one that can be resolved with the use of the correct tools and replacement components.

Why Does My Pilot Light Keep Going Out?

The most typical reason that your water heater’s pilot light continues going out is that the thermocouple has been broken, distorted, or become clogged with debris.

What is a thermocouple?

For the purposes of this definition, it is just a gadget that measures temperature.
The component that controls the flow of gas within your water heater or furnace is more significant than you would think.
It is made up of two wires.
Two people sit in front of a thermostat, while the other sits near the pilot light flame When the temperature rises, the thermocouple generates an electronic signal, which opens the gas valve, allowing the combustion to take place.

When the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple detects the reduction in temperature and sends a signal to the gas valve, which closes the valve.If you have a defective thermocouple, this is the most likely cause for your pilot light to be inoperable.Over time, dirt, dust, and other types of debris will accumulate on the inside of your water heater.The accumulation of material on your thermocouple might cause it to malfunction.This is a simple remedy; simply allow it to cool down before brushing away any dirt or debris.

It’s possible that your thermocouple will flex.The end of the hose that is closest to the pilot light flame is responsible for communicating with the gas valve and telling it whether to open or close.The gas valve will remain closed if the thermocouple is twisted away from the flame and does not record heat.Once again, simply wait for your water heater to cool down before bending the pipe backward.

If you are unclear of how to continue, do not attempt to repair the problem yourself; instead, contact us and one of our skilled specialists will resolve the problem.The thermocouple may be broken or malfunctioning if it is neither bent nor unclean, and if you have troubleshooted both of these concerns.To find out if your thermocouple needs to be replaced, call us now or submit a service request online.If it is not an issue with the thermocouple, it is conceivable that the pilot light aperture is clogged with debris.A result of doing so is that the pilot flame cools down and so does not adequately heat the thermocouple.

If you suspect one of these problems, call Comfort Zone Heating & Cooling at 248-414-1302 or submit a service request online and one of our qualified experts will help you.

Why Your Pilot Light Keeps Going Out & How To Fix [With Pictures]

That darn pilot light just won’t stay turned on!
Moreover, it is causing all of your plans for today to be derailed.
Nothing compares to the sensation of taking a hot water shower.
However, there are times when this does not occur.

After all, there are worse things than having a very cold bath, should we say?The one thing that everyone despises is a lack of running water.This may be incredibly inconvenient – not only for showering, but also for all of the other duties that require hot water to be completed successfully.Everything that needed to be done in the way of cleaning, laundry, and hand washing has now been completed.You don’t have to put your day on wait because your pilot light isn’t working properly.

Discover what a pilot light is, why it is so important to your comfort, how to relight it, and how to safeguard your comfort in the future by continuing to read this article.However, if you discover that your water heater is leaking water and that this is the root of your water problem, read our guide on what to do when your water heater is leaking water!Repair Your Pilot Light Right Away With a Pro!

What’s A Pilot Light?

An electronic device that maintains a continually burning flame is known as a pilot light.
Basically, the goal of this section is to light the burner.
How?
When you switch on your appliance, gas is released from the main burner, and the pilot light flame ignites the gas, so supplying heat to the room.

With each degree of heat generated by the main burner, the air or water contained within your appliance is heated and then disseminated as needed around your residence or place of business

Appliances With Pilot Lights

Water heaters, as well as older furnaces and boilers, are more likely to have a pilot light than other types of appliances.
You may also discover that your gas fireplace has a pilot light, which is a good thing.
Learn how to switch on the pilot light on your gas fireplace by visiting this page.
Pilot lights have been gradually being phased out in favor of hot surface igniters or spark igniters in more recent years.

pilot light for a water heater The pilot flame ignites the gas, which generates heat for your house or place of work.If your hot water isn’t functioning, check the pilot light on your water heater.Also, if you are experiencing no heat, check to see whether the pilot light on your furnace or boiler has gone out.furnace with pilot lightBoiler with pilot light

Water Heater Pilot Light: Where Is It And What Does It Do?

A little access panel, located just underneath the thermostat, may be found at the very bottom of your gas water heater.
The pilot light for the gas water heater is located within the access panel.
There will be a gas panel where you may check to see if the pilot flame has been ignited.
The pilot light on your water heater is a little flame that is used to ignite the gas burner in the water heater.

This is required for the purpose of heating the water that will be dispersed around your home.If you are experiencing no hot water and have attempted to relight your pilot light without success, you will require water heater repair.The pilot light on the water heater keeps going out.Warning!Remove the burner and pilot from the interior of your water heater at your own risk.

This photograph was shot by a water heater professional for the purpose of giving a demonstration on the use of pilot lights.

What Makes Your Water Heater Pilot Light Go Out

A Faulty Thermocouple Is The Reason Your Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

Thermocouple on the water heater is faulty.
The thermocouple is responsible for detecting whether your pilot light is on.
This copper rod serves as a safety precaution, preventing the heater’s gas supply from being turned off if the pilot light on the water heater goes out.
The natural wear and tear of a thermocouple can cause it to get twisted out of place, to malfunction, to become broken, to become covered in dirt, or to accumulate carbon deposits.

When one or more of these conditions occurs, the thermocouple will be unable to reliably detect the pilot light and will subsequently shut down the heating system.

Strong Breeze Can Blow Out Pilot Light

In some cases, such as when there is heavy wind or a nearby draft, your pilot light may be extinguished. Unless your pilot light has simply been out, you should have little trouble re-igniting it and keeping the flame burning.

Kink in the Flex Tube

The fuel is delivered to the gas controller by flexible tubes. Gas will not flow through the tube if there is a kink or twist, which can also lead to pilot light difficulties.

Filthy Pilot Light Opening Can Make Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

If the pilot’s mouth is clogged with muck and debris, it will be virtually hard for it to maintain a flame. It will only keep a modest flame that will be readily extinguished if it does catch fire. Your pilot light will not stay lit if your pilot orifice is clogged with debris.

How Do I Re-Light My Gas Water Heater Pilot Light?

The pilot light on the water heater is not lighted.

Step 1: Thoroughly Read Gas Water Heater Manual

To have a better knowledge of where each component of your water heater is situated, consult your water heater’s instruction manual.

Step 2: Turn Down Thermostat

To have a better knowledge of where each component of your water heater is situated, consult your water heater handbook.

Step 3: Turn OFF Gas

The gas valve for the water heater Locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it all the way to the ″Off″ position. The gas shut off valve is positioned on the gas line near the base of your water heater, near the base of your water heater. Before proceeding on to the next stage, you must wait at least 5 minutes to guarantee that all of the gas has dissipated completely.

Step 4: After 5 Minutes, Turn The Gas Control Valve Setting On Water Heater To ″Pilot″

Turn the gas control valve, which is situated on the water heater, to the ″Pilot″ position. The word ″Pilot″ should be in the center of the image.

Step 5: Hold Down the Reset Button

Keep the water heater reset button depressed. After that, press and hold the reset button. This is a button that is often red in color and is situated to the left of the gas control valve. Keep your finger on this button. To be on the safe side, use the instructions to identify each component.

Step 6: While Holding Down The Reset Button, Press The Igniter

Keep the water heater’s igniter down. The igniter is located to the right of the gas control valve. While continuing to keep the reset button down, press the igniter button on your keyboard. Click on the water heater’s gas window until you see a blue flame appear in the glass.

Step 7: Continue To Hold Down The Reset Button For 20-30 Seconds.

Following the sighting of a flame and the removal of your finger from the igniter, you must continue to press the reset button. Continue to hold the button down for another 20-30 seconds.

Step 8: Turn The Gas Control Valve To The ″On″ Setting

On the water heater, there is a gas control valve. The gas control valve may now be turned back to its ″On″ position, as the pilot light has been ignited by the flame. The word ″on″ should be in the middle slot at this point.

Step 9: Turn The Thermostat Up

Increase the temperature of the water heater. Now is the time to dial up the heat in order to get that hot water flowing again!

Step 10: Enjoy Your Warm Water, Or Ask For Help!

If you attempt to relight the pilot light and it does not remain lit, you may want the services of a water heater repair professional to assist you.

But What If You Don’t Have A Manual Igniter?

After You Turn Down The Thermostat And Shut The Gas Valve: Open Access Panel

After that, remove the access panel that is located beneath the water heater thermostat and discard it. You can use a wrench to help you.

After 5 minutes, Turn Gas Control Valve To ″Pilot″

Now, set the gas shutoff valve to the ″Pilot″ position.

Next, Hold Gas Control Valve Down And Ignite Pilot With A Lighter

Keep the gas knob pressed down as you ignite the pilot using a long lighter, similar to a BBQ skewer. If your gas water heater, on the other hand, has an igniting button, use it instead.

Once The Flame Is Lit, Turn Gas Control Valve to ″On″

As soon as the pilot light is lighted, you may remove the reset button and turn the gas knob to the ″On″ position, which will take around 30 seconds. You should be able to hear the main burner turn on at this point. Your pilot light should now be able to maintain a flame, and hot water should be flowing again!

Furnace Pilot Light: Where It Is And What Does It Do?

Old furnaces rely heavily on the pilot light to generate heat, which is why it is so crucial to keep the pilot light on.
When the gas valve is opened, the flame will continue to burn constantly, igniting the gas.
The heat generated by this process then heats the air that is drawn into your furnace, which is then dispersed throughout your house.
Your furnace may spew chilly air if your pilot light is out, which can be caused by a malfunctioning burner.

The failure of the pilot light is one of several probable causes of your furnace’s inability to switch on.Find out more about the reasons why your furnace won’t switch on in this article!You may find the pilot light by following the gas line into your furnace and looking for it there.The gas valve should be equipped with a switch that shows whether or not the pilot light is turned on and on.From there, you should be able to see a short tube that runs from the gas valve to the burner itself.

You should be able to locate the pilot light if you follow the little tube leading to it.

Why Furnace Pilot Light keeps going out

There are a variety of reasons why the pilot flame on your furnace continues flickering out of control. Let’s get started!

Faulty Thermocouple Triggers Pilot Light to Go Out

It is meant to shut off the gas valve if the pilot light goes out, and it is used in conjunction with a thermocouple. Thermocouples can be damaged or worn out over time. If the thermocouple is incorrectly positioned or malfunctioning, the gas valve may be incorrectly shut off, as well as preventing the pilot light from keeping lit.

Dirty Thermocouple Makes Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

A filthy thermocouple may cause the safety mechanism to mistakenly trigger, causing the ignition to be turned off. The thermocouple has the potential to accidentally shut off the gas valve and extinguish the blazing flame.

Filthy Pilot Port/Orifice

Examine the flame.
If the flame is becoming orange, contact an HVAC professional immediately.
If you light your pilot and the flame is yellow, this indicates that your pilot opening is filthy and is preventing your pilot light from keeping lit for long periods of time.
A buildup of dirt in the pilot light port might prevent the flame from fully enveloping the thermocouple, which can result in a faulty ignition.

As a result, the safety system is activated, which results in the gas being turned off.This is a fairly typical cause of why your pilot light keeps going out, and it is easy to diagnose.

Bad Gas Regulator

If you have gas appliances in your house, you will also have a gas regulator outside of your home to regulate the flow of gas into your home.
Your furnace may not receive enough gas to keep its pilot light lit if your gas regulator isn’t functioning correctly.
There is a good chance that you have a defective gas regulator if the pilot light is out in more than one home appliance, such as your water heater.

Bad Flue Venting Could Blow Out Pilot Light

Excess wind might enter via the openings in your flue pipe if it is loose, broken, or not correctly attached to the furnace. This would extinguish the pilot light flame.

A Strong Draft

There’s always the potential that a powerful draft knocked out your pilot light’s flame and caused it to go out.

How To Re-Light A Furnace Pilot Light?

Step 1: Review Furnace Manual

The first and most crucial step is to locate the owner’s manual for your heater. The handbook will assist you in gaining a better grasp of the internal workings of your individual appliance.

Step 2: Identify Pilot Light

Find the location of the pilot light in your furnace by consulting the owner’s handbook. In order to get access to the furnace, you will need to remove the front of the furnace.

Step 3: Turn OFF Gas

After that, locate the gas valve and shut it down completely.
A tiny valve located towards the bottom of the furnace is standard on most models.
In general, there are three settings for the gas valve: ″ON,″ ″OFF,″ and ″PILOT.″ Make sure the valve is in the ″OFF″ position by turning it clockwise.
It is critical that you wait for at least 5 minutes after the previous step to ensure that all gas has been expelled from the pipes before proceeding.

A disaster might occur if this is not done.

Step 4: WAIT 5 Minutes, then Turn Gas to ″Pilot″

Immediately after waiting 5 minutes, switch the gas valve to the ″PILOT″ position. It is vital that all of the gas has dissipated before switching the gas position to the pilot position. A few of minutes might be the difference between a peaceful society and a disasterous one. Keep in mind that gas is quite explosive!

Step 5: Hold Reset Button

After that, hold down the reset button. However, if you are having difficulty locating the reset button, your furnace’s owner’s handbook should be able to point you in the appropriate place.

Step 6: Press Igniter While Holding Reset Button

Holding the reset button down for a second or two will allow you to activate the igniter and light the flame.
Once the flame has been ignited, remove the igniter and continue to hold down the reset button until the flame has been extinguished.
Keep the reset button pushed for 20-30 seconds to complete the process.
To light the pilot when you do not have a manual igniter, you can use a BBQ lighter or a match.

furnace with a pilot light

Step 7: Turn Gas to ″ON″ position

Restore the pilot light by turning the gas control valve back to its ″ON″ position once it has been re-ignited. Right now, you should be able to keep your house warm!

Step 8: If you Aren’t comfortable yet, call a pro!

If, despite doing the necessary measures, you are still unable to keep your pilot light lit, contact an HVAC professional for furnace repair assistance.

Boiler Pilot Light: Where It Is And What Does It Do?

The pilot light in your boiler is vital for the boiler to function properly and generate heat.
It is necessary for the pilot to burn constantly in order for it to ignite the gas when the gas valve is opened.
When this occurs, your boiler starts heating the water, which is subsequently dispersed throughout your house to provide warmth.
If your pilot light goes out, your boiler and central heating will not be able to operate properly.

The pilot light is placed within your boiler, on the other side of the valve from the gas valve.The boiler handbook should help you have a better knowledge of the location of each component.

Why Boiler Pilot Light Goes Out

Dirty or Damaged Thermocouple Explains Why Pilot Light Keep Going Out

A malfunctioning, misaligned, filthy, or damaged thermocouple is frequently the source of your pilot light’s failure to illuminate properly. It is the thermocouple that keeps the gas valve from opening if the pilot light is not lit. Your pilot light may not function properly if there is an issue with your thermocouple, or if it is just coated with dirt and debris.

Dirty Pilot Opening

When you turn on your furnace pilot light and find a yellow flame, this indicates that your pilot light is unclean and is causing your furnace pilot light to constantly turning out.
If dirt accumulates in the pilot light port, it may prevent the pilot light from completely enveloping the thermocouple with the flame it produces.
This causes the thermocouple safety system to be incorrectly activated, resulting in the gas being turned off and the heat being turned off.

Weak Gas Regulator Can Make Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

If you have gas appliances in your home, you will have a gas regulator outside your home. The failure of your gas regulator may result in your furnace not receiving enough gas to keep its pilot light lit. If you find pilot light issues on more than one item, such as your water heater, it is possible that you have a broken or weak gas regulator installed.

A Strong Draft

A strong airflow has the potential to completely extinguish your pilot light.

How To Re-Light Boiler Pilot Light

Step 1: Use and Refer to Boiler’s Owner Manual

When there is a strong draft, your pilot light is quickly extinguished.

Step 2: Shut OFF Boiler

Starting with shutting off the boiler is always a good idea.

Step 3. Shut OFF Gas

Locate the gas valve and turn it to the ″OFF″ position.

Step 4. Wait 10 Minutes

Continue to check the pipes for around 10 minutes to ensure there is no residual gas.

Step 5. Open Boiler and Locate Pilot Light

After a short period of time, you can turn on the boiler. To obtain access to the pilot light, remove the access panel from the wall. Typically, this panel is positioned next to the gas control knob box, which is where it gets its name. Sometimes you may simply lift the panel up, but other times it may be screwed to the wall or ceiling.

Step 6. Turn Gas to ″Pilot″

Now, set the gas control valve to the ″Pilot″ position on the pilot valve.

Step 7. Hold Reset Button, Then Click Igniter

Next, press and hold the reset button for a few seconds. While still holding down the reset button, press and hold the igniter button until you see a flame appear. It is necessary to press the reset button for an additional 20-30 seconds after the flame is ignited to ensure that it is fully functional.

Step 8. Turn Gas Control Valve To ″On″ Setting

Restore the pilot light by turning the gas control valve back to its ″ON″ position once it has been re-ignited. Right now, you should be able to keep your house warm!

Step 9. Relax in Comfort

How did things turn out?
If not, when will you get your home warm and comfortable?
An emergency boiler repair is simply a phone call away if your pilot light has been struggling to retain its flame, or if you are still unclear how to fire your pilot light.
Now that you don’t have to struggle with a cold house anymore, you may turn to a licensed professional with your queries and concerns.

Here’s where you can get a boiler repair quote or book an appointment online.With the help of superTech HVAC Services, you can relight your pilot light in no time.

How Do I Prevent My Pilot Light From Going Out?

Keeping your water heater, furnace, and boiler in good working order can keep those annoying pilot lights from going out on you.
An experienced technician will do a maintenance check on the pilot light and thermocouple, as well as clean them both, to ensure that they operate at peak efficiency.
Depending on the appliance, a professional will also check all of the connected pipes and wiring, the flue venting, and all other functional aspects of the appliance to verify that each portion is running at peak efficiency.
Find out more about a furnace tune-up by visiting this page!

Routine maintenance for your furnace, water heater, and boiler is essential to ensuring that you never run out of heat or hot water in your home!

Soak Up The Warmth!

That’s all there is to it!
A basic description of how to relight your pilot light, as well as the most typical causes for your pilot light to go out is provided.
We all know that having no heat or hot water in your house is the worst feeling in the world!
The best course of action if you’re having difficulties keeping your pilot light lit or are still unclear about the process is to call a professional.

If you are experiencing any pilot light issues, please do not hesitate to contact us at (443) 219-7798 or make an appointment online here.We are here to assist you!

Diagnosing and fixing a thermocouple “no hot water” problem

Your gas water heater’s burner chamber has what’s known as a thermocouple, which is a little metal cylinder that sits directly in front of the pilot light.
The thermocouple is a safety device that detects when the pilot light is on and has to be replaced.
If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple sends a signal to the gas valve, which keeps the valve closed until the pilot light returns.

A worn out thermocouple is one of the most common gas water heater problems

Thermalcouples wear down over time, causing the pilot light to go out, the burner to not fire, and the lack of hot water to result.
First, try re-igniting the pilot by following the instructions on the tank’s side panel.
It is possible that the thermocouple is defective if the pilot ignites but the flame goes out as soon as you release the button after holding it for 60 seconds.
It is feasible to change the thermocouple without having to disassemble the burner assembly, and many repair technicians do so.It is feasible to change the thermocouple without having to disassemble the burner assembly, and many repair technicians do so.