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How Light Pilot Light Water Heater?

Posted on Author Andrey KiligannPosted in CONTROLOTRONLeave a Reply

How do you light a pilot light on an electric water heater?

Set the pilot light knob to the ″pilot″ position.In order to re-light the flame, depress the knob and hold down the ignite button simultaneously for a minute.Once a flame has been created, you may adjust the temperature by turning the knob to the desired setting on the stove.Continue your exploration by clicking here.In a similar vein, how can I ignite the pilot light on my electric water heater?

  1. How to Turn on the Pilot Light on a Water Heater
  1. Open the door or cover that provides access to the pilot light
  3. Locate the burner within the container using a flashlight or a headlamp.
  4. Turn the gas knob to the ″Pilot″ position and press and hold it there.
  5. Maintain control of the gas pedal while igniting the pilot
  7. When the flame begins to ignite, keep the gas knob or button down for a full minute.

The same question applies to whether it is unsafe if the pilot light on a water heater goes out.As long as the thermocouple is hot, gas is delivered to the pilot light, and the pilot light does not go out.If the pilot light goes out, the gas is turned off, and there is no danger of gas collecting as a result of the pilot light being turned off.It is also possible to inquire whether or not there is a pilot light on an electric water heater.This is referred to as a pilot light, and it signals that natural gas is present.

  1. If you see a pilot light, this indicates that you have a gas-powered water heater.
  2. The pilot light on an electrical water heater is not present.
  3. What is the best way to tell whether the pilot light on my water heater has gone out?
  4. There is a short metal tube below the burner assembly that is distinguishable by a slight upturn at the end, which indicates that it is a pilot gas line.
  5. If the pilot is ignited, it will be obvious by the faint blue flame that will be seen at the end of the hose.

If you do not see a little blue flame burning, this indicates that the pilot light is not working.

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.
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  2. 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
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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. 4
  5. 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. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

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  • 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.

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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.

  1. Continue reading for helpful hints on how to prepare for and light your water heater.
  2. Did you find this overview to be helpful?
  3. 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?
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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.

  1. 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.

  1. 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?

  1. If you’ve been there previously and saw the pilot light on, it’ll be much easier to locate the location.
  2. 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 simple to re-ignite the pilot light on your water heater.But first, make sure there isn’t a gas leak.The lighting of a flame in the presence of a leak might result in an explosion.Fortunately, this is straightforward: Check the area surrounding the pilot light to check sure there isn’t any gas coming from it.If you understand what I’m saying, you can proceed.

  1. Now, various models will have slightly varied approaches to exactly how to accomplish this.
  2. However, the general concept remains the same.
  3. Check that access panel one more time.
  4. You’ll notice a knob with temperature settings, as well as a notch with the words ″Pilot″ or ″Pilot Light″ written on it.
  5. Look for it, as well as the ignitor button.

It’s normally located in the middle of the panel.Turn the knob to ″Pilot″ and keep it there while pushing the ignitor.A click, as well as a ″whooshing″ sound, should be heard as the mechanism engages.If you look through that space, you should be able to 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.

  1. In contrast to traditional tank systems, tankless systems do not store warm water in a tank until you need it.
  2. In place of it, they heat the water as soon as you turn on the faucet.
  3. 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.

  1. If the pilot light goes out, it does not heat the thermocouple, which then closes to prevent unwanted gas from accumulating within the house.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

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.

  1. 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.
  2. Turn the knob to the ″Off″ position and wait five minutes for the gas to clear before proceeding with the next steps:
  1. Open the door or cover that provides access to the pilot light. In most cases, this will be positioned under the gas valve
  2. however, some water heaters will just have an open gap where you can see the pilot light burner instead.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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
  6. some models include a red or black igniting button.
  7. 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.
  8. Turn the gas knob to the ″On″ position and listen for the unmistakable ″whump″ or whooshing sounds that indicates the main burner has ignited.
  9. 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.

  1. The burner is typically simple to remove by simply sliding it out.
  2. Clean out the burner ports with a vacuum, and then use a microfiber cloth and steel wool to clean the tip of the thermocouple.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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 Pilot? – Follow 6 Step Solution

It is the pilot light on your hot water heater that provides the majority of the energy and warmth for the unit.When the pilot light on your water heater is turned on, it is able to ignite the gas burner, which is found in the majority of gas water heaters and is responsible for heating the water in your tank.Throughout this piece, we’ll walk you through the straightforward procedure of how to ignite a water heater pilot, as well as the supplies and/or tools you’ll need to execute this work successfully.

The Tools Needed to Light Pilot Light in Water Heater

  • Before you can start working on the water heater pilot, you must first gather the necessary tools. Fortunately, they are tools that can be obtained from any source, and, more significantly, they are most commonly available in your very own toolbox! The following are the tools required to ignite a pilot light on a gas water heater: A lighter — In many instances, a lighter will be required to ignite the pilot light.
  • A portable flashlight (optional) – This equipment can assist you in locating the burner, which is especially useful if the water heater is located in a dimly lit area.

Steps to Lighting Water Heater Pilot

Step 1: Find the access panel

Identifying your water heater’s access panel (which is normally placed under the gas valve) is step one in the process of lighting the pilot. It is possible to just glance into the heater’s gap from the outside, which is where we would ignite the pilot light on a hot water heater in some situations.

Step 2: Locate the gas burner

To ignite the pilot light on a gas water heater, you must first locate the gas burner on the water heater. Two gas tubes would be coming into it from the inside of the heater, where it would be kept.

Step 3: Twist the gas knob

Locate the gas knob that has a label that says either ″Pilot″ or ″Pilot Light″ on it. Turn the knob so that it is pointed in the direction of ″Pilot,″ and then press down on it. This would allow gas to flow into the chamber and assist you in lighting the flame.

Step 4: Light it up!

Light the pilot light as you continue to hold down the gas knob or button.For many water heaters, it is advised that you use a long lighter to relight the pilot light on the water heater.Other types include ignition buttons, which are generally red or black in color, that when pressed, generate a spark that ignites the pilot light on the water heater.Keep pressing down on the gas button for about a minute after the flame has been ignited in order to ensure that the pilot light on the hot water heater remains illuminated.

Step 5: Turn the gas knob to “On”

Slowly turn the gas knob to the ″On″ position to engage the main burner once you’ve determined that there is a bright flame going on. When the main burner is turned on, you may hear a distinct whooshing sound or perhaps a ″whump.″ This is normal.

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Step 6: Close the access panel

Now that the pilot light on your water heater has been switched on, you should close the access panel, making sure that it is completely closed. Following the relighting of the pilot light, it may take some time for the water to be properly heated, but in around 40 minutes to an hour, your hot water should be flowing as if nothing had occurred.

Conclusion

Wasn’t it easy enough to switch on the pilot light on the water heater?We hope that we were able to make your work a little bit simpler.We would appreciate hearing from you if we were able to assist you.Thank you for taking the time to read our guide and for taking the time to leave a comment below to share your experience and what you learned.In addition, it would be much appreciated if you would forward this post to others so that they too may learn how to ignite a water heater pilot.

How to Light a Water Heater’s Pilot Light (With Pictures)

With 23 years of experience in the HVAC sector, Dan has gained knowledge in a variety of areas, including installation, service, sales, and distribution.

The Pilot Light of a Water Heater

Some individuals may think that lighting the pilot on a hot water tank is an easy chore, but as a home service provider for over 15 years, I can assure you that I’ve made more than a few dollars executing this task for others.Despite the fact that many modern gas-burning appliances have converted over to hot surface or electronic ignition, there are still a significant number of standing pilot systems being made and used today.If you possess one of these standing pilot systems, you should be familiar with the procedure for checking and lighting your pilot.It will be explained in detail in the following stages how to light your pilot, what to watch for when doing so, and a few other techniques you may use to get the fire started.

Lighting a Sealed Combustion Pilot

We’ll start with a hot water tank system that is more contemporary and uses sealed combustion technology.With a sealed combustion chamber, there is no need to enter the burner assembly, and you should avoid doing so if at all possible.There is a looking glass in the access panel that you may use to visually verify if the pilot is lit.Everything you need to light this pilot is mounted directly to the burner control module.This access is bolted shut for a purpose, and it should only be accessible by individuals who are properly trained and licensed.

  1. Set the gas control knob on the top of the stove to the ″pilot″ position.
  2. To enable gas to flow, press and hold down the control knob itself for many seconds.
  3. Press and hold the electronic spark button, which is placed on or attached to your control module, until you hear it click. If there is a little amount of air in the line and it takes a few seconds to ″bleed out,″ you may need to click it a few times before the pilot is lighted.
  4. Continue to hold down the knob until the pilot has heated the thermocouple enough for it to be able to confirm ignition with the thermostat in the control module by visual confirmation. If the thermocouple does not heat up sufficiently, the pilot will be forced to return to the aircraft.
  5. Remove your finger from the control knob and visually check that the pilot is still glowing.
  6. To turn on the gas, turn the gas control knob to the “on” position. If the pilot was left out long enough for the water temperature to decrease, the burners should begin to operate within seconds of the pilot being turned off. If the water has not cooled, it is possible that there will be no need for the burners to be turned on. Be prepared for it to not start up immediately
  7. this is normal.

Lighting an Open Combustion Pilot

Unlike the sealed combustion tank, you will be required to provide your own flame to light the pilot, rather than relying on an electronic ignition to do so for you. This process is very similar to the sealed combustion tank, with the exception that you will be required to provide your own flame to light the pilot yourself.

  1. The gas control knob should be set to pilot mode so that the notch in the dial corresponds to the button that controls the gas supply. If you do this, you’ll be able to press the button all the way down when it’s necessary
  3. Remove the panels from the burner compartments. Both should be quite simple to remove by raising up and pulling out.
  4. Place your preferred flame source (lighter, match, or other similar item) into the chamber such that the flame is directly beneath the aperture of the pilot supply line and ignite the flame. NOTE: I prefer to do three and then four. Despite the fact that the two stages can be exchanged, I believe it is better to introduce the flame before providing gas in order to minimize even the slightest possibility of gas buildup. I prefer to err on the side of caution, so I press and hold down the pilot gas supply button for many seconds before visually confirming that the pilot has been ignited. Keep the pilot gas supply button depressed for about 30-45 seconds to heat the thermocouple if this is the case.
  5. Release the button and visually check that the pilot light has not been extinguished. Assuming the pilot light remained on, turn the gas control knob to the ″on″ position.

Again, depending on your conditions, the water heater’s burners may or may not turn on straight immediately, so be patient.

Things You Can Use to Light a Pilot Light

  • Long-stemmed lighters and matches are also available.
  • Matches with hemostatic clamp that are brief
  • A candle that is long and thin

Don’t Have a Lighter or Matches?

Lighting a long, thin candle on the stove and utilizing it to light the pilot light may be an option. When doing this, place a piece of tin foil behind the pilot to prevent wax from spilling onto the bottom of the chamber.

A Quick Water Heater Inspection You Can Do

  • Check for moisture and corrosion in the surrounding area and at the bottom of the unit (a.k.a. blisters). This might be a signal to be ready for a new tank
  • for example,
  • Check to ensure that your T&P valve is operational.
  • Feel the tank in your hands. Is it comfortable? If this is the case, you may want to consider adding an additional layer of insulation.
  • Check the operation of your thermostat control. You may accomplish this by reducing the heat down to the lowest setting and turning off the burners, if any are already operating. It is expected that the burners will shut down at this point and that they will re-ignite within seconds of turning the burners back on. If not, your control may be inadequate, and you should seek professional assistance.
  • Finally, you might want to consider asking yourself, ″When was the last time I cleansed my water heater?″ This is something that should be done at least once a year.

Author’s Qualifications

  • 15 years of experience in HVAC installation and service
  • 5 years of experience as a home improvement contractor
  • More than two years of experience in product safety, performance, and certification testing, as well as EPA and OSHA certification.
  • Electrical theory, thermodynamics, and refrigeration coursework have been completed

To the best of the author’s knowledge, the information in this article is accurate and complete.Content is provided solely for informative and entertainment reasons and should not be relied upon as a substitute for personal counsel or professional guidance in commercial, financial, legal, or technical problems, unless otherwise specified.Dan Reed was born in the year 2012.Dan Reed (author) posted the following on April 22, 2012: Thank you so much, Mmargie.People who have never done it before may be nervous, but I always spend a significant amount of time thinking about my directions and selecting themes that are safe for anybody to try if the instructions are followed.Mmargie1966 posted the following on April 21, 2012 from Gainesville, GA: Voted up and thought provoking.

  • I’ve always been apprehensive about using gas appliances.
  • Once upon a time, I owned a gas stove, and my husband was responsible for lighting it.
  • lolI feel a little better after reading the particular instructions on your site, despite the fact that I do not currently have any gas appliances.

I’ll maintain this hub as a backup in case anything changes.

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.

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  • 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.

How to Fix a Water Heater’s Pilot Light

  1. Being in the midst of a hot shower and having the water abruptly change cold is one of the most unpleasant sensations. If the hot water in your house stops working, it is most likely due to a problem with the pilot light on your water heater. A pilot light is a little flame that is used to ignite the gas burner in your water heater to provide heat. When your pilot light goes out, you should do the following steps: First, try re-igniting the pilot light on your stove. The majority of water heaters are furnished with a sticker that contains instructions on how to do this task. If your water heater does not come with detailed installation instructions, you may find them here.
  2. If the pilot light does not relight, or if it does so very briefly after relighting, it is possible that the thermocouple has to be replaced. Essentially, a thermocouple is a safety device that detects when the pilot light is turned on. Because if the pilot light is not lit, the thermocouple will not enable the gas valve to open, preventing the gas from being used to heat the water from heating. As a result, if the thermocouple is not functioning, it will be unable to determine whether or not the pilot light is lighted. It’s a good thing thermocouples can generally be replaced for next to nothing and in under an hour. Instructions on how to replace a thermocouple may be found by clicking here.

In the event that you are not confident in your ability to repair your water heater’s pilot light on your own, there are several specialists you may employ to do it for you. To locate a professional in your area, please visit this page. The video below will provide you with further information on how to repair a water heater’s pilot light.

Replacing the thermocouple usually does the trick.

Time Complexity is limited to one hour or less. Beginners may get started for less than $20.

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Introduction

If your hot water heater suddenly stops operating, it’s likely that a faulty thermocouple has caused the gas to the pilot light to be turned off. Replacement is a simple do-it-yourself project.

Tools Required

Materials Required

  • Dish soap
  • Long matches
  • Thermocouple

Is there no hot water?If you have a natural gas or propane water heater, there is a good probability that the pilot light has gone out.It is this little flame that starts the gas burner on your water heater that is referred to as the pilot light.When the pilot light on your water heater goes out, the first thing you should do is try to relight it by following the instructions on the water heater label.The thermocouple is by far the most prevalent cause of pilot failure, whether it occurs immediately after lighting or on a regular basis after the pilot has been extinguished.One piece of good news is that a thermocouple can generally be replaced for very little money and in less than an hour.

  • If you do not wait for a professional to arrive, you will be able to get your hot water running without incurring the expense of a service visit.
  • Continue reading to find out how to start a pilot light.

What is a Thermocouple?

  • In order for gas to flow to the burner, a thermocouple must be used to detect the heat of the pilot.
  • A faulty thermocouple will prevent gas from reaching both the pilot and the burner, resulting in the pilot light failing to stay lit.

Project step-by-step (6)

Step 1

Turn Off the Shutoff Valve

  • Shut off the gas line by closing the cutoff valve.
  • As seen in this photo, turn the valve a quarter turn so that the handle is at a right angle to the pipe.

Step 2

Unscrew the Nuts

  • Turn off the control valve if it is on.
  • Remove the burner access covers and loosen the bolts on the gas, pilot, and thermocouple lines to free up the burner.

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Remove the Assembly

  • Remove the water heater pilot light burner component from the water heater.
  • Remove the old thermocouple by unscrewing or pulling it out.
  • Purchase a new one that is the same size and length as the previous one

Step 4

Install the New Thermocouple

  • Install the new thermocouple in the same manner as the previous one
  • Replace the burner assembly by sliding it back in.
  • Reattach the three wires to the control valve where they were disconnected.

Step 5

Reattach the Lines to the Gas Valve

  • The three lines must be reconnected to the gas valve by threading the nuts into position with your fingers and hand-tightening them
  • Wrenches should be used to tighten them up by turning them a quarter to half turn. Pro tip: Because the metals are delicate, avoid overtightening them.

Step 6

Test for Gas Leaks

Note: To check for leaks, you must have the pilot light lit and the burner turned on so that gas is flowing through the big tube in the stove.

  • Replenish the water supply by opening the shutdown valve and lighting the pilot light.
  • Turn the control valve to the ″on″ position.
  • When the gas burner is turned on, use a 50/50 mixture of dish soap and water to check the screw joints for air bubbles, which indicate leaks in the joint. Take note that when the water heater pilot light is re-ignited, the flame should wrap around the thermocouple bulb.

CAUTION!

During this procedure, you should not be able to detect the scent of gas (except for a slight whiff when you remove the gas lines). If you find yourself in this situation, exit the house immediately and contact your gas provider.

When Not to Replace the Thermocouple

Some gas water heaters have a burner chamber that is ″closed,″ making it impossible to reach the burner. It is recommended that you contact a professional to repair this sort of heater. In addition, some gas water heaters are not equipped with pilot lights. Allow the professionals to take care of this as well.

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

Having a faulty thermocouple is another reason why your pilot can be out of commission.if you inspect the thermocouple and find it to be clean, grubby, and not curved, it is possible that the thermocouple has been compromised.Remove the thermocouple and do a multimeter test on it to validate your concerns..Prior to removing the thermocouple, be certain that the gas has been turned off and that the thermocouple is completely cold.

This device is destroyed if the voltage it delivers is less than 20 MV.Solutions for a Damaged Thermocouple Dealing with a damaged thermocouple is a technical task, and if you are not a specialist, you may find yourself in need of their assistance.If a thermocouple is just slightly damaged, it may be fixed.The item may need to be replaced if the damage is too severe.

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.

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