Where Is The Pilot Light On My Water Heater - ERNIEGRAVES

Light Your Hot Water Heater Pilot Light in 5 Easy Steps

Posted at 12:00hinPlumbing Services on February 12, 2019 There are a variety of reasons why your hot water heater’s pilot light may go out. However, while the absence of a pilot light may signal a problem with the heater itself, a hot water heater pilot light can also go out for a variety of other causes, such as oscillations in the gas pressure. If your pilot light is out, you will most likely see cold water flowing out of your hot water valves when you turn on the water. The good news is that you can easily re-ignite your hot water heater pilot light by following these five simple steps:

1. Turn Off the Gas

The first thing you should do is make certain that the gas has been turned off completely. Locate the gas regulator valve in order to accomplish this. On the outside of your water heater, around the point where the main gas line enters the heater, you’ll often find this valve. Allow at least five minutes to pass after turning this valve to the “off” position to allow any leftover gas to disperse.

2. Where is The Pilot Light on Hot Water Heater?

This section will most likely necessitate the use of a flashlight. Most of the time, the pilot light for your hot water heater may be found beneath the water tank on your device. It is possible that you may need to remove an access panel in order to get to it. Some newer versions may have the pilot light hidden behind a glass panel, which is a nice touch. In appearance, the pilot light’s housing should be in the shape of a little silver tube. You will need to hire a plumber to diagnose any additional issues you may be experiencing with your water heater if there is already a flame burning at the end of this tube when the pilot light is turned on.

3. Check for any Gas Leaks

Ensure that there are no gas leaks or residual gas before proceeding any further. Igniting a flame in the vicinity of a gas leak can be extremely hazardous to your health and the safety of your property. Relighting your hot water heater pilot light should only be done if you are certain that no gas is leaking from the device. You may confirm this by doing a basic smell test as follows: Take a few deep breaths while standing near to your water heater and smelling the air. Despite the fact that natural gas is odorless, gas companies use an additive called mercaptan to guarantee that it may be discovered in the event of a leak.

If you don’t detect any rotten eggs-like odors in the air surrounding your water heater, step closer and sniff any of the valves, pipes, or connection points in the vicinity of the unit.

Immediately leave the house if you detect even a faint whiff of gas and contact your plumber, who will be able to advise you on what steps to do next.

When you leave the house, avoid turning on or off any lights since this might cause sparks that could ignite the gas.

Always leave the house before phoning someone or sending a text message. Natural gas that is leaking can make you sick, and spending any further time near a gas leak increases your chances of accidently inhaling or igniting the leaking gas.

4. Ignite your Hot Water Heater Pilot Light

Before proceeding, you should double-check to ensure that there are no gas leaks or leftover gas. A gas leak can be extremely harmful for you and your property, therefore never ignite a flame in its vicinity. After checking to ensure there is no gas leaking from your device, you should restart your hot water heater pilot light. You may verify this by doing a basic smell test as follows: Take a deep breath and stand near to your water heater, smelling the air around you. Despite the fact that natural gas is odorless, gas companies add an additive known as mercaptan to make it more detectable in the event of a leak.

If you don’t detect any rotten eggs-like odors in the air surrounding your water heater, step closer and sniff any of the valves, pipes, or connection points in the vicinity of your unit.
Immediately leave the house if you detect even a slight whiff of gas and contact your plumber, who will be able to advise you on what to do.
When you leave the house, do not turn on or off any lights since this might cause sparks that could ignite the gas in the house.
It is possible to become ill from natural gas leaks, and spending any further time near a gas leak increases your chances of inhaling or igniting the gas.

5. Make Sure the Flame Stays Lit, and Your Heater is Working.

Maintain pressure on the regulator valve for at least a minute after the pilot light has been ignited. The thermocouple sensor will be able to re-heat as a result of this. This sensor detects whether your water heater’s pilot light has gone out and will shut it down if the water becomes too cold to handle. Allow for a minute before carefully releasing the regulator valve and checking to see whether the pilot light continues to burn. If this is the case, switch the regulator valve to the “on” position.

Once this is accomplished, your pilot light should be operational.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with natural gas may be a frightening experience. It is possible, however, to safely rekindle your hot water heater pilot light whenever you need to if you follow these simple instructions. It’s always possible to call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing for skilled, timely, and locally-based assistance if you are still unclear of what you are doing, cannot figure out how your specific model works, or simply prefer to have a professional handle the situation instead. BFP Duncanville provides plumbing services to the Southwest Dallas communities of Cedar Hill, Dallas, DeSoto,Duncanville, Glenn Heights, Grand Prairie, Maypearl and Midlothian as well as the towns of Oak Cliff and Ovilla.

In addition to emergency plumbing repair, the company offers a variety of other plumbing services, including faucet repair, drain services, toilet repair, plumbing fixture installations, tub and shower installations, kitchen sink repair, faucet installation, water heater repair/replacement, and garbage disposal replacement, among other things.

For further information or to make an appointment, please contact us at (972) 263-5010.

Is The Pilot Light On My Water Heater Out? How Do I Relight It?

Showers that are too cold? Blinking indicators of status? When there should be a flame, there isn’t one. All of these are indications that the pilot light on your water heater has gone out. Fortunately, that is a quite simple repair. In this tutorial, we’ll go over the following topics:

How to determine whether or not your pilot light is working properly
How to get it to work again
How long do you think it will be until you get hot water again
What is the reason for it continuing to go out?

Meanwhile, if you have any concerns or want assistance, please contact Broadley’s by phone or email. Even when we distance ourselves and practice social distancing, Broadley’s relies on phone conversations and virtual consultations to answer inquiries and obtain further information about our products and services.

Signs your pilot light is out

The following are three fast techniques to determine if your water heater’s pilot light is out:

‘Your water is ice cold. ‘ You can’t see the flame because of a blinking light or an error message.

Your Water Is Cold

If you’ve reached the point where you’re only getting cold water, start troubleshooting by checking the pilot light on the faucet. Of course, there are a variety of additional possibilities for why you aren’t getting hot water. The most apparent example is if you’ve recently used a lot of water and completely depleted the tank. However, if this is not the case, the pilot light should be checked first. If that is not the case, you may be dealing with a more serious issue. But, with any hope, it will be a simple remedy.

Blinking Light or Error Message

The first thing you should do is look at the control panel of your equipment. It’s normally located at the bottom of the device, with one or two lights illuminated. If there is an issue with your model, that light may remain on, flicker, or change colors to alert you to the situation. If you have a handbook, look through it. Generally, though, there is a sign or key directly on the heater that tells you what the different lights represent and how to use them. If your light shows that the pilot light is not working, you’ve found the source of the problem.

You Can’t See the Flame

The first thing you should do is look at the control panel of the equipment you have. It’s often located at the bottom of the device, with one or two lights illuminated. To signal that there is an issue, the light on your model’s dashboard may remain on, flicker, or change colors. If you have a manual, look it over. Although in many cases there is a label or key directly on the heater that explains what the different lights signify, this isn’t always true. Identifying the problem is simple if the pilot light is not illuminated by your light.

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. Now, various models will have slightly varied approaches to exactly how to accomplish this. However, the general concept remains the same.

You’ll notice a knob with temperature settings, as well as a notch with the words “Pilot” or “Pilot Light” written on it.

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.

In place of it, they heat the water as soon as you turn on the faucet.

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.

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.

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

Prev PostNext PostWhen the pilot light on a water heater goes out, it is typically because of a natural fluctuation in gas pressure, which extinguished the flame. 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.

However, for the vast majority of gas-powered water heaters, you should begin by locating the gas shut-off valve on the water heater, which is generally plainly labeled on the front lower section of the water heater, before proceeding.

Turn the knob to the “Off” position and wait five minutes for the gas to clear before proceeding with the next steps:

Open the door or cover that provides access to the pilot light. In most cases, this will be positioned under the gas valve
However, some water heaters will just have an open gap where you can see the pilot light burner instead. Locate the burner within the container using a flashlight or a headlamp. It will be reached by two little gas tubes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it while you’re at work. Turn the gas knob to the “Pilot” position and push and hold the button. This will initiate the flow of gas, allowing you to ignite the flame. Some water heaters feature a separate pilot mode button, which is commonly a red button, which you must push and hold in order to activate it. While keeping the gas pedal depressed, ignite the pilot light. Certain water heaters feature an igniting button that is red or black, while others must be lighted manually with a long lighter
Some models include a red or black igniting button. Maintaining pressure on the gas knob or button for a full minute after the flame is ignited is critical. Then slowly release it while checking to see if the light is still on. Turn the gas knob to the “On” position and listen for the unmistakable “whump” or whooshing sounds that indicates the main burner has ignited. Enjoy your hot shower when you’ve replaced the lid.

Despite the fact that a single extinguished pilot light is normally caused by a natural fluctuation in gas pressure, recurrent faults suggest a more serious problem with the water heater itself. The most typical problem that causes repeated pilot outages is a filthy or bent thermocouple, which is a thin copper wire and rod that detects the presence of a flame and immediately switches the gas off when it detects a lack of flame detection.

What is a Thermocouple?

A thermocouple is sometimes referred to as a flame sensor in contemporary water heaters because of the way it detects flames. Your thermocouple is most likely twisted, filthy, or damaged if the pilot light continues to go out after you have completed the above-mentioned lighting procedures. For those who find that their pilot light is twisted and not near the burner, they may simply turn off the gas, shift it over, and attempt lighting the pilot again. It may be necessary to clean the water heater gas valve and the main gas line near the heater if this does not solve the problem.

The burner is typically simple to remove by simply sliding it out.
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.
Rooter Plumbing to help you get hot water back into your home again.
The use of hot water is simply one component of a great showering experience.
Previous PostNext Post Previous Post

How to Light the Pilot for a Gas Hot Water Heater

When the water in the tank needs to be heated, tank-type gas water heaters utilize a pilot light to ignite the gas burner, which then heats the water. The cold water flowing from the hot water tap is usually the first sign that your pilot light has gone out, so keep an eye out for it. Even if the equipment is not malfunctioning, a pilot light might go out for a variety of causes, including sudden swings in gas main pressure. If the pilot light on your heater goes out, you may relight it by yourself.

1.

Find the gas regulator valve on the water heater and turn it on. It is positioned on the exterior of the water heater, near where the gas line enters the device, and it is controlled by a knob on the outside. The gas supply to the pilot burner beneath the hot water tank is controlled by this valve. To turn the valve off, turn the knob all the way to the left. Wait five minutes before continuing. Locate the pilot burner, which is located beneath the natural gas water heater. Remove or unsnap any access cover that is preventing you from getting to the burner. Make use of the flashlight to illuminate the pilot burner

2.

Turn the knob on the gas regulator valve to “Pilot,” press down on it, and keep it pressed down. The flow of gas to the pilot burner is initiated by pressing this button. To start the pilot burner gas flow on some water heater types, you must push and hold down a separate red button for a period of time. Find a red or black button labeled “Ignition” on the top or side of the gas valve if your heater has a piezoelectric spark pilot igniter built in. To start the pilot, press the button on the control panel. As the igniter ignites, you will hear a click sound. If you must manually ignite your heater, a long-necked barbeque lighter is the most secure type of lighter to use. Light the pilot burner with a lighter flame and turn it on.

3.

After the pilot has been ignited, keep the regulator valve knob firmly depressed for at least one minute. This permits the pilot flame to heat the thermocouple safety sensor, which detects the presence of a live pilot flame, allowing the pilot flame to heat the sensor.

Reduce the pressure on the regulator valve knob gradually. When the pilot light continues to glow after you have released the knob, turn the knob to the “On” position. During the ignition of the primary burner, you should hear a muffled “whoomp” sound. Replace the access covers with new ones.

Things You Will Need

Look for a label on your gas water heater that provides particular pilot lighting instructions for the model of water heater you have installed.

Warning

If you smell gas in the vicinity, it is not a good idea to attempt to relight a water heater pilot light (or to do any other maintenance on the device). When you are outside the home, dial 9-1-1.

How to Tell If the Pilot Light is Out on Your Water Heater

If you have a gas water heater, there is a good probability that your pilot light has gone out at some point in time. In a gas water heater, the pilot light is a critical component, and if it is not lighted or is not operating correctly, your “hot” water will become cold very quickly. Learning some basic troubleshooting techniques and how to activate the pilot light can help you save money by allowing you to address the problem yourself rather than hiring a professional plumber. Despite the fact that electronic ignitions are becoming increasingly widespread on contemporary gas water heaters, many older models still rely on pilot lights.

This article will assist you in troubleshooting the issue and determining what steps to take next.

What is a Pilot Light? What Does it Do?

Typically, a tiny flame is used to light the burner in gas and propane-fueled water heaters. It is this little flame that is referred to as a pilot light, and it remains lit at all times. When the water heater needs to heat the water in the tank, it uses the pilot light to start the gas burner, which then heats the water in the tank. Consider the pilot light to be similar to a match. You might use a match to start a fire or ignite a gas stove, for example. It is impossible to build a fire or light your gas stove if you don’t have the right kind of match on your person.

The loss of the pilot light will prevent your water heater from being able to ignite the gas burner, and as a result, it will be unable to heat the water.

Yet once the pilot light is restored, the water heater is capable of re-igniting the gas burner and resuming its function of heating the water.

Signs Your Pilot Light Has Gone Out

Generally speaking, there are three basic signs that your pilot light has gone out: In the event that your hot water is no longer hot, there is a significant likelihood that your pilot light has been extinguished. There are, of course, other possible causes for your lack of hot water, so if it isn’t the pilot light, you’ll need to perform some further troubleshooting. On the gas control valve, you may observe an error message or a blinking light indicating that there is a problem. If you are experiencing a difficulty, the indicator light may change colors to notify you to the situation.

The fact that the pilot light is not working is always one of the difficulties mentioned. There is no flame if you undertake a visual check and you are unable to detect a flame, then your pilot light is obviously not working. Learn how to do so by reading the information below:

How to Check if Your Pilot Light is Out

Even if your gas control valve shows that there is a problem with the pilot light, it is always worthwhile to visually inspect the area for a flame. The burner chamber door of a water heater is normally located below the gas control valve, at the bottom of the unit, on the left side of the unit. According on your water heater, you may need to remove the door or open it to get a good look at what’s going on within the burner chamber and in the pilot light tube. It is unlikely that the problem is with the pilot light if there is a flame visible.

What Causes a Pilot Light to Go Out?

There are a variety of various reasons why a pilot light may go out in a home. Here are a few of the most prevalent reasons for this condition: Change in Gas Pressure- When there is a natural change in gas pressure, it is fairly unusual for the pilot light to go out. Although it is unlikely to occur frequently, it does happen from time to time, and relighting the pilot usually remedies the issue. If, on the other hand, the pilot light continues to go out, this indicates that something else is wrong.

This stops gas from entering the chamber from entering.
More information about troubleshooting a thermocouple may be found in this article.
Because the pilot light is only a little flame, it can be quickly extinguished if the heater is installed in a drafty location of the house.
Because it is positioned in a closet or other enclosed space where it will not have access to the air it requires for combustion, it is possible that the pilot light may not remain illuminated.
It is possible that this condition could be hazardous to your health since it will result in a buildup of carbon monoxide in your house.

Is it Dangerous if the Water Heater’s Pilot Light Goes Out?

When the water heater pilot light is turned off, it is generally not a safety hazard to turn it back on. This is due to the fact that modern gas-fueled water heaters are equipped with valves that automatically shut off the gas supply when the pilot light goes out. This is a very critical safety feature, and if your water heater did not perform this function, you would be dealing with a natural gas or propane leak, which might result in an explosion. Having said that, when the water heater is located in an enclosed place, it might be quite dangerous.

Carbon monoxide is exceedingly hazardous and has the potential to be fatal.

They are affordable and may be installed in close proximity to your hot water heater. If the levels of carbon monoxide climb to dangerous levels, the detector will sound an alarm to notify you.

How to Light a Pilot Light

Every water heater is a bit different, so be sure to read the directions that come with your specific make and model of water heater before starting. In most circumstances, the following information may be found on a sticker attached to the side of your water heater:

Enable for a 10-minute period of time after turning off the gas control valve to allow the gas to exit the chamber region
Turn the knob on the gas control valve to the PILOT position and push the button. As a result of pressing the button, a little amount of gas will be transported to the pilot
For 90 seconds, press the little black (or red) igniting button on the side of the stove frequently. The igniting button will cause a spark to be generated, which will ignite the pilot. (Some water heaters may require manual lighting with a long lighter
This is not uncommon.) As soon as the status button starts blinking or turns on, the pilot light is turned on. At this point, you may adjust the temperature by turning the knob to the appropriate setting. You should be able to hear the burner start up. You should expect this to happen
If your pilot does not light after 90 seconds, you will need to wait for 10 minutes before attempting to light it once more. If, after multiple efforts, you are still unable to ignite the pilot, there may be an underlying problem.

Take a look at the video

Do I Have a Bad Thermocouple?

When it comes to contemporary water heaters, thermocouples are commonly referred to as flame sensors, although many of them feature a standing pilot light that is powered by a thermocouple. It is possible that the thermocouple is not functioning correctly in this instance, and the pilot light will not remain lit. Although it’s conceivable that the thermocouple is dusty or twisted, or that it’s damaged, it’s typically preferable to just replace the thermocouple rather than repositioning or cleaning it.

You may find out more about it here.

How Long Does it Take to Get Hot Water

It will take some time until you get hot water again once you have gotten your water heater back up and running. The length of time it takes depends on the size of the tank. As a general rule, you should anticipate to wait between 30 and 40 minutes until your tank has reached its maximum temperature.

Can I Turn Off My Pilot Light?

When it comes to turning off the pilot light on your water heater, there’s nothing wrong with it in general. Keep in mind, however, that you will not have access to hot water after the water in the tank has cooled down to a safe temperature. In truth, there are several circumstances in which turning off your pilot light is a wise decision. For example, when going on vacation, it is frequently recommended by professionals that you do so. You will save money on your energy bill if you turn off the pilot light on your water heater while you are away from home since the water heater will not keep the water heated while you are away.

Despite the fact that the heater will continue to consume a little amount of gas to keep the pilot lit, it will be less of a problem to turn on the water heater when you return since you will not have to relight the pilot when you return.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

It’s never a bad idea to have a professional plumber check at your water heater if you notice something is wrong with it. While they’re checking on your pilot light, they may also do periodic maintenance on your system to keep it running smoothly. Water heater maintenance should be performed at least once a year to prevent sediment buildup and corrosion. Proper maintenance will also increase the service life of your water heater. Even yet, it is not always essential to engage a professional plumber to assist you with the task of lighting your pilot light.

If, on the other hand, you believe the problem is related to the thermocouple in your water heater, you may want professional assistance.

If you hire a competent plumber, he or she will be able to replace or repair your thermocouple quite quickly and simply. Find a Local PlumberToday is the day to fix your plumbing emergency!

Why Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light Keeps Going Out & How to Fix It

When it comes to your water heater, it’s never a bad idea to have a professional plumber take a look. It’s possible that they’ll undertake routine maintenance on your system while they’re inspecting your pilot light. This is something that experts recommend you perform at least once a year to reduce sediment buildup and corrosion, and good maintenance will help to extend the service life of your water heater as well. Even yet, it is not always essential to engage a professional plumber to assist you with the process of lighting your pilot light.

When it comes to your water heater’s thermocouple, though, you may want professional assistance if you believe the problem is with the device.

Get in Touch with a Local PlumberToday is the day to fix your plumbing problem!

Why does the pilot light on my water heater keep going out?

Because of problems with the heater’s thermocouple or owing to access to combustible air, your water heater’s pilot light continues going out repeatedly.

Thermocouple Issues

When your pilot light is on, your thermocouple detects the presence of the flame. The thermocouple’s tip is positioned above the pilot flame, providing a voltage that maintains the gas valve open in the process. A thermocouple will shut down the gas supply to your water heater if it detects that the pilot light on your water heater is not lighting up properly. When thermocouples are exposed to moisture or dust for an extended period of time, they might malfunction, gather dust, or get bent away from the pilot light’s flame.

Lack of Combustible Air

Another reason why your gas water heaterpilot light won’t remain lighted might be that there isn’t enough combustible air in the room where it is located. To keep the pilot light on in your water heater, you’ll need to blow air into it. Otherwise, the flame will be extinguished. Take precautionary measures to ensure that the water heater is not surrounded by material, such as litter or lint, which might increase the quantity of combustible air present. Maintain as much cleanliness as possible in the surrounding region.

What do I do if my water heater pilot light keeps going out?

Try to rekindle the spark on your own first, if at all possible. Take the following general steps:

Locate the gas shut-off knob and turn it all the way to the “Off” position. The gas flow is halted as a result of this. Allow for a few minutes for the gas to dissipate before continuing. To get access to the burner, remove the access panel. To begin the flow of gas, turn the knob to the “Pilot” position. You’ll want to press and hold the knob down for a few seconds. While still holding the gas knob, ignite the pilot with a long lighter while still holding the gas knob. To ignite your gas water heater, use the button on the side of the tank that says “ignite.” As soon as the flames have been extinguished, turn the gas knob to the “On” position and wait for the main burner to come on.

If you are unable to relight the pilot or if your pilot light keeps going out, it is possible that you have another problem, such as a faulty thermocouple, to consider. Please refer to the owner’s handbook for your water heater equipment for further information.

Can I replace a thermocouple myself?

Yes. In the event that you are handy with tools, you may be able to change the thermocouple yourself. It is easier to accomplish this by turning off the gas valve and removing the entire burner and thermocouple assembly.

In the case of minor repairs, it is preferable and safer to hire someone who is knowledgeable in the field of repair. A specialist may also evaluate your water heater for other faults and provide advise or ideas on how to deal with any existing or future difficulties that may arise.

Call BGE HOME

Please contact BGE HOME at (410) 918-5600 if your water heater pilot light will not light or continues going out. You may also contact us online. Our licensed specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to come out and inspect your water heater and make recommendations on how to get it running safely and effectively again. This item was posted on Thursday, May 13th, 2021 at 4:09 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. Commenting and pinging are temporarily closed for this post.

How to Fix a Water Heater Pilot Light

Time Approximately one hour or less Complexity Cost for a beginner is less than $20.

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

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.

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.

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)

In order for gas to flow to the burner, a thermocouple must be used to detect the heat from the pilot. Due to a malfunctioning thermocouple, the pilot and burner will be deprived of gas, resulting in the pilot light failing to illuminate.

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

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.

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
A quarter- to half-turn of the wrench tightens them up.

Pro tip: Because the metals are delicate, avoid overtightening them.

Test for Gas Leaks

Keep in mind that in order to test for leaks, the pilot light must be lighted and the burner turned on so that gas flows through the big tube.

Replenish the water supply by opening the shutdown valve and lighting the pilot light. Turn the control valve to the “on” position. Use a 50/50 mixture of dish soap and water to check the screw joints for air bubbles, which indicate a leak, while the gas burner is turned on.

Keep in mind 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.

WhenNotto 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.

Solved! What to Do When Your Pilot Light Goes Out

Image courtesy of fotosearch.com The temperature in my shower this morning was absolutely freezing, and I mean that in the best way possible. After a brief investigation, I noticed that the pilot light on my water heater had gone out. Is it worth it to try to relight it? A: It all depends on what caused the light to go out. It’s possible that the problem was anything as simple as a draft, a filthy pilot orifice, or a worn-out part—or that the extinguished pilot light was a symptom of something more serious requiring attention.

If you find yourself in this situation, leave your home and call the gas company!

(Please keep in mind that if your water heater has an enclosed burner chamber, you’re most likely out of luck as far as a DIY remedy is concerned; only a professional plumber should be able to reach an enclosed burner chamber.) Make an appointment with a proGet free, no-obligation repair quotes from qualified appliance experts in your area.

When you see your pilot light out, you can usually relight it.

The presence of a downdraft in a vent pipe on a windy day, or even the breeze via an open window, can be sufficient to extinguish a pilot light. It is common for water heaters to include identical relighting instructions, which are usually permanently mounted to the side of the appliance. Image courtesy of fotosearch.com Remove the access cover located at the bottom of the water heater in order to relight the pilot. Ensure that the “Pilot” position is selected for both the control knob and the water temperature knob.

Continue to keep the knob down for a full minute after the pilot is ignited in order to remove any remaining air from the line.

Depending on what happens after the pilot ignites, one of the following options should be considered:

If the flame continues to burn, you’re good to go!. Simply replace the cover plate, turn the control knob to the “On” position, and set the desired temperature on the water temperature knob to return to the refreshinghotshower experience. Ensure that the pilot light does not flicker and goes out immediately after relighting by cleaning the pilot orifice. Gas flow is impeded by a clogged pilot light aperture, but the solution is straightforward. Shut off the gas to your water heater first, of course (look for a valve on the gas line that supplies the unit). Twist the pilot orifice fitting to the left, which is positioned behind the access cover, to release it from its mounting. After that, remove the orifice itself from the fitting by unscrewing it. Using a cotton swab moistened with rubbing alcohol, thoroughly wipe all surfaces of the fitting once it has been dismantled. As soon as you have completed the reassembling and reattaching of the fitting, relight the pilot light as previously specified. You should replace the thermocouple if you are able to ignite the pilot light but it goes out as soon as you remove the control knob from the pilot light control box. It is a safety device that shuts off gas flow if it detects that the pilot light is out
However, if it becomes broken, it loses its capacity to regulate the flow of gas. This repair is a little more involved than the previous two, but a replacement is rather inexpensive—often costing less than twenty dollars

Connecting the control panel to the burner assembly, which is hidden behind an access panel, is this item that looks like a copper tube. Turn off the gas to the water heater before beginning any disassembly efforts. Remove the burner assembly from the control panel by detaching the thermocouple tube, the pilot light tube, and the gas supply tube using an adjustable wrench. The burner assembly should simply slide out of the way. (Tip: Because thermocouples come in a variety of sizes and kinds, bringing the broken thermocouple with you when purchasing a replacement is the most effective approach to ensure that you receive an identical match.) Replacing the broken thermocouple with a new one is followed by reassembling the burner assembly, reattaching the tubes, and relighting the pilot light in the manner indicated above.

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.

You don’t have to put your day on wait because your pilot light isn’t working properly.

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, 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 pilotflame ignites the gas, which generates heat for your house or place of work.

Also, if you are experiencing no heat, check to see whether the pilot light on your furnace or boiler has gone out.

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.

Warning!

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 LightGo 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

On the water heater, there is a faulty thermocouple The thermocouple is responsible for detecting when your pilot light is on and when it is off. If the pilot light on your water heater burns out, this copper rod acts as a safety feature, cutting off the heater’s gas supply. A thermocouple can become twisted out of place, malfunction, become damaged, or become covered in dirt or a build-up of carbon as a result of normal wear and tear and environmental conditions.

In any of these cases, the thermocouple will be unable to reliably detect the pilot light and, as a result, the heating activity will be interrupted.

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 OpeningCan MakePilot 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: HoldDownthe 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 TheIgniter

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 try to relight the pilot light and it does not stay lit, you may want the services of a professional to assist you with your water heater repair.

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

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”

After that, remove the access panel that is located beneath the water heater’s temperature control. Use a wrench to get the job done.

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 TheFlame 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. If your furnace’s pilot light is out, you may notice that it is spewing chilly air into the house. The failure of the pilot light is one of several probable causes of your furnace’s inability to switch on.

You may find the pilot light by following the gas line into your furnace and looking for it there.

From there, you should be able to see a short tube that runs from the gas valve to the burner itself.

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.

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?

You should never rule out the chance that a strong airflow was the cause of your pilot light being extinguished.

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.

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.

Why Boiler Pilot Light Goes 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. In the event that you observe pilot light issues on more than one device, such as your water heater, it is possible that your gas regulator is broken or weak.

A Strong Draft

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

How To Re-Light Boiler Pilot Light

Make sure you are familiar with the components of your boiler by reading the instruction manual thoroughly. It is common for the owner’s handbook to contain instructions for re-igniting the pilot light.

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? If your pilot light has been struggling to keep a flame, or if you are still unclear how to fire your pilot light, boiler repair is simply a phone call away! 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. To arrange a boiler repair, call or go online to this page. 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! Maintaining your furnace, water heater, and boiler on a regular basis is essential to ensuring that your heat or hot water never runs out!

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 don’t hesitate to contact us at (443) 219-7798 or make an appointment onlinehere.