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)

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.

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.

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

The date is May 13, 2021. When the pilot light flame on your gas water heater goes out, it is an annoying and frustrating situation to have to deal with. When your water heater’s pilot light fails to stay lit, you’re left without hot water, which makes even the most basic of tasks such as taking a shower a chore. Naturally, you question, “How did this happen? What happened?” Is there anything you can recommend to help you get things going again? What should I do to have it repaired? “May you tell me about the costs I can expect?” Fortunately, if your water heater pilot light goes out, you should be aware that this is a frequent problem that many homeowners have and that the time and effort required to repair it is low.

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

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

Thermocouple Issues

When your pilot light is on, your thermocouple detects the presence of the flame. The thermocouple’s tip is positioned above the pilot flame, providing a voltage that maintains the gas valve open in the process. A thermocouple will shut down the gas supply to your water heater if it detects that the pilot light on your water heater is not lighting up properly.

When thermocouples are exposed to moisture or dust for an extended period of time, they might malfunction, gather dust, or get bent away from the pilot light’s flame. In either situation, the thermocouple will have a difficult time sensing the pilot light and shutting down the gas flow.

Lack of Combustible Air

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.

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

In some cases, such as when there is heavy wind or a nearby draft, your pilot light may be extinguished.

Unless your pilot light has simply been out, you should have little trouble re-igniting it and keeping the flame burning.

Kink in the Flex Tube

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

Filthy Pilot Light OpeningCan MakePilot Light Keeps Going Out

Gas controller fuel is delivered by flexible tubes. Having a kink or twist in the tubing can prevent the gas from flowing properly and will result in pilot light issues.

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”

Now, set the gas shutoff valve to the “Pilot” position.

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

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

Once 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?

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

Step 2: Identify Pilot Light

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

Step 3: Turn OFF Gas

After that, locate the gas valve and shut it down completely. A tiny valve located towards the bottom of the furnace is standard on most models. In general, there are three settings for the gas valve: “ON,” “OFF,” and “PILOT.” Make sure the valve is in the “OFF” position by turning it clockwise. It is critical that you wait for at least 5 minutes after the previous step to ensure that all gas has been expelled from the pipes before proceeding. A disaster might occur if this is not done.

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

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

Step 5: Hold Reset Button

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

Step 6: Press Igniter While Holding Reset Button

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

Step 7: Turn Gas to “ON” position

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

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

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

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

A malfunctioning, misaligned, filthy, or damaged thermocouple is frequently the source of your pilot light’s failure to illuminate. The thermocouple is an automated safety shutdown mechanism that prevents the gas valve from opening if the pilot light is turned off or not working. 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.

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

Find the gas valve and turn it to the “OFF” position.

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”

You can now turn on the boiler after waiting a while. To obtain access to the pilot light, first remove the access panel. Typically, this panel is positioned next to the gas control knob box, which is a convenient location. Although the panel is sometimes simply lifted, it is occasionally fastened into place.

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 deal with a cold house anymore, you can turn to a certified professional with your questions and concerns. To schedule 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.

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

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

Reason 1: Dirty Pilot Tube

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

How to Fix

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

Reason 2: Kink in the Flex Tube

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

How to Fix

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

Reason 3: Obstruction in the Thermocouple

Thermocouple issues are very prevalent, and this component is frequently the source of the problem when the water heater’s pilot light keeps blinking. This gadget is meant to detect the presence or absence of a pilot light by picking up an electrical signal from the heat generated by the pilot light.

When dirt particles get in the way of this signal, it might cause it to be distorted, leading the thermocouple to assume that the pilot has gone out of range. It then takes the precautionary step of shutting down the gas supply.

How to Fix

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

Reason 4: Damaged Thermocouple

Check to verify that the thermocouple is completely cold to the touch before continuing. After that, you will need to carefully sand the surface with a piece of fine grit sandpaper to remove any remaining filth. Making ensuring the component is functioning properly should be a priority at this point. However, if this procedure fails to resolve the issue, it may be essential to replace the thermocouple due to component failure.

How to Fix

Check that the thermocouple is completely cold to the touch. Then, using a piece of fine grit sandpaper, lightly sand the surface to remove any remaining filth. This should help to confirm that the component is functioning properly. However, if this procedure fails to resolve the issue, thermocouple replacement may be required owing to component failure.

Reason 5: Main Control Valve

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

How to Fix

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

When All Else Fails

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

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.
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

It is safe to restart your hot water heater pilot light once you have determined that there are no leaks in your water heater equipment. To accomplish this, set the regulator valve to “pilot” and press and hold it down for a few seconds. Depending on the model, you may be required to press a second red button to regulate the flow of gas to the pilot light. If your machine includes a dedicated pilot button, it will most likely be red and labeled “pilot.” Check the front of your unit for instructions that may assist you in locating all of the valves and buttons necessary to re-ignite your hot water heater’s pilot light, if there are any.

When it comes to newer models, the “ignition” button on your water heater should be either black or red in color.

As this occurs, you should hear a clicking sound.

The safest method for accomplishing this is to use a long-nosed lighter, such as those used to ignite barbecue grills. Never use a match or a cigarette lighter to relight the pilot light, since this increases the risk of burning your hand when the pilot light is re-ignited.

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.

How to fix a Water Heater Pilot Light

The most recent update was made on September 28th, 2021. We’ve all been in that situation. The first thing you notice when you get out of bed in the morning is icy cold water flowing down your back and down your legs. Having jumped out of the shower in disbelief, you must now determine why you did not receive the scalding hot shower to which you were accustomed. If you have a gas hot water tank, it is highly possible that your pilot light has been accidentally turned off and that it is now in need of being switched back on.

If you follow the easy procedures outlined below, you will be able to get your water tank up and running and ready for a more pleasurable shower.

Pilot light safety checklist – Maybe put this first?

On September 28th, 2021, the most recent update was made. That is a place we have all been. The first thing you notice when you get out of bed in the morning is icy cold water dripping down the back of your neck and shoulders. Having jumped out of the shower in disbelief, you must now determine why you did not receive the scalding hot shower to which you were expecting to be treated. With a gas hot water tank, it’s possible that your pilot light has been accidentally turned off and that it now has to be switched back on.

Typically, this is a straightforward repair that may be completed at home without the assistance of an expert. The easy actions outlined below will get your water tank up and running, allowing you to have a lot more pleasurable shower.

If you’re going to be cleaning portions of your water heater, turn off the gas. Before handling any of the components of your water heater, be sure they are completely cold. If you smell gas, don’t attempt a do-it-yourself repair. If you smell gas when your pilot light is off, contact your local gas supplier.

How to fix the pilot light

Check for gas – The first and most critical step is to determine whether or not you have a gas smell. It is imperative that you contact your gas provider if you smell gas to determine whether or not you have had a leak. Your gas supplier will provide you with specific instructions on how to be safe. DO NOT try to relight your pilot light if you detect the odor of gas. It is never a good idea to attempt to repair a water heater gas leak on your own. When contemplating whether or not to relight your pilot light, keep the safety of you and your family in mind at all times. Attempt to relight the pilot light on your own — If you do not detect any gas, it is okay to proceed with attempting to relight your pilot light on your own without assistance. There are several video resources available to teach you how to relight the pilot light on your water heater. iScaper1 has a goodyoutube video showing how he lights his pilot light. You can see it here. This operation may necessitate the purchase of a BBQ lighter to make it easier for you to do.

To begin, make certain that your control knob is set to the pilot lighting position. Remove the metal pilot light cover from the pilot light. Pushing down on the control knob while turning on the light inside the water heater will result in the following: Your pilot light should be illuminated at this point.

What if it won’t stay light?

If you have completed the steps outlined above and re-energized your water heater, it should now be operational correctly. If it does not function, it is possible that you have a problem with either your thermocouple or your pilot tube In electrical engineering, a thermocouple is a device that measures the temperature emanating from a pilot light. Whenever the pilot light on your water heater is not lighted, the thermocouple will automatically cut off the gas supply to the water heater. Fortunately, you may be able to resolve these difficulties on your own, without the need for a technician’s assistance.

Verify the condition of your pilot tube– If your pilot tube has gotten clogged, it may prevent the pilot light on your water heater from operating correctly. If you have attempted to relight your pilot light and it has failed to light or has failed to remain lit, it is possible that the pilot tube needs to be cleaned. Cleaning the tube with a needle is a simple procedure that may be completed. Check that the gas is switched off and that the pilot tube is completely cold before touching anything
Keep an eye out for a dirty thermocouple– much like your pilot tube, your thermocouple mat may become clogged with dirt. This can cause your thermocouple to lose its ability to detect temperature changes, as well as cause your water heater to turn off its burners completely. Cleaning the thermocouple with fine sandpaper is a gentle process that should be avoided. This activity will need that you switch off your gas and allow the thermocouple to cool before you can proceed. Check for a bent thermocouple– If your thermocouple has gotten bent, it may not be able to read the temperature because it is not close enough to the pilot light. When this occurs, your thermocouple will cut off the gas supply to your water heater, preventing it from being relighted. A simple solution is to softly bend the thermocouple closer to the pilot light, which will correct the problem. Always ensure that the thermocouple is completely cold before attempting to contact it directly. Ensure that your thermocouple is in working order– If you have attempted all of the steps listed above without success, it is possible that you have a damaged thermocouple, which has to be replaced. It is necessary to call a specialist in order to have the thermocouple repaired or replaced if the device is damaged.

When to get help

The most essential thing to remember when considering a do-it-yourself repair to solve your water heater pilot light problems is to keep safety as the first and foremost concern. When attempting to troubleshoot problems with your water heater, always make sure that you are not inhaling any gas before proceeding further with the investigation. Immediately notify your local gas supplier if you detect the odor of gas and follow their directions on what to do next. When your pilot light has just gone out and needs to be reignited, you may do a few simple DIY repairs to get it working again.

No matter what the problem is, a professional will be able to resolve it for you.

Some of these causes will necessitate the use of a technician.

Contact information may be found on this page.

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. 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. Please see this link for detailed information on how to replace a thermocouple:

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.

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.

Solved: Gas Heater Pilot Light on but Not Burner

Using a few easy modifications, you can crank up the heat. Get quotations from as many as three professionals! Enter your zip code below to get matched with top-rated professionals in your area. Showering in ice cold water is not a pleasant experience, therefore if you are unable to obtain warm water, you will want to find a solution as soon as possible. Alternatively, if your water heater won’t turn on even when the pilot light is on, you may find yourself scratching your head in frustration.

What Causes Water Heater Issues Even When the Pilot Light Is On?

After a hard day at the office, there’s nothing better than a nice bubble bath.

However, if your water heater isn’t working properly, it might throw a wrench in your plans like an iceberg. The following are the four most typical reasons for inconsistencies between the pilot light and the heater:

After a hard day at the office, nothing beats a nice bubble bath. In contrast, if your water heater is not performing properly, it might throw a kink in your plans. Disagreements between the pilot light and the heater are most commonly caused by four factors:

1. Assess Your Heater

Photograph courtesy of BanksPhotos / iStock / Getty Images To begin, do a visual assessment of the situation. Alternatively, if you suspect that the burner isn’t operating because you aren’t hearing the typical sound, remove your cover plate to ensure that you are not able to see the burner lighting up. Following your confirmation that you are not receiving a light, turn the temperature dial to the desired setting. Here’s how you should go about troubleshooting:

Set the dial to “vacation” or “low” to reduce the volume. Bring the temperature back up to your preferred level. Look for a light source

But what if that isn’t enough to solve the problem? Let’s take it to the next level. This time, begin by selecting “holiday” or “low” as the operating mode. The difference is that you’ll now be able to raise the temperature by 10 to 20 degrees over your intended temperature. You could even catch a glimpse of the light turning on. Because thermostats lose accuracy as they age due to a phenomenon known as “drifting,” this approach is frequently successful in achieving the desired result. When you apply this approach, be careful not to allow your water to become too hot to handle.

If you have youngsters or elderly family members who live in your house, reduce that number to 120 instead.

2. Check for Sediment Accumulation

If the dial technique does not work, it is possible that you have a sediment problem. The collection of sediment at the bottom of a tank has the potential to cause your thermostat to fail. Your thermostat will reach its specified temperature before your water because of the sediment accumulation, which will function as an insulator. A typical reason of warm water that never completely warms up is a buildup of minerals in the water. Popping or banging noises, as well as dirty-looking or foul-smelling water, are all signs of sediment collection.

3. Check for a Thermocouple Issue

It is your thermocouple that is responsible for measuring temperature. Before hiring a plumber to assist you with a thermocouple replacement, you should look for a few items on the thermocouple. If you don’t want to bother with fumbling around with the thermocouple, you may also avoid calling a plumber.

Rust

RUST is one of the most prevalent causes of thermocouple failure. A thermocouple that has suspected rust on it should be investigated as follows:

Close the pilot gas valve and turn off the gas. Take off the cover plate
Determine whether or not the thermocouple is buried in rust.

The thermocouple is often serviced by a local plumber at this stage, which is the preferred method for most individuals. If you know what you’re doing, you can try to brush or vacuum the burner element and pilot region. Otherwise, call a professional. Just make sure you allow everything to cool completely before handling any of the components. It is preferable to use a shop vacuum rather than a regular residential vacuum.

In order to dump out the material in a fire-safe manner, you must allow the vacuum and filter to breathe for at least 12 hours after it has been emptied. When cleaning the rust, you must also take care not to damage the pilot or gas fittings by accidentally breaking them.

Pilot Flame

In order to service the thermocouple, the majority of consumers opt to employ a local plumber at this stage. But if you know what you’re doing, you might be able to attempt to brush or vacuum the burner element and pilot region. Just make sure to allow everything to cool completely before handling any of the components. It is preferable to use a shop vacuum instead of a regular residential vacuum. In order to dump out the material in a fire-safe manner, you’ll need to let at least 12 hours for the vacuum and filter to breathe before doing so.

Replacing the Thermocouple

If none of the above mentioned troubleshooting methods work, the last resort is to replace your thermocouple. Thermocouples are inexpensive, ranging between $10 and $20. On this sort of job, the majority of plumbers will charge between $75 and $150 for labor.

Should I Call a Plumber if the Burner on My Water Heater Won’t Work?

Many individuals are apprehensive of troubleshooting a burner since it might be a potentially hazardous endeavor. Not only might you cause harm to your water heater if you make a mistake, but it can also be quite hot to the touch, as its name implies. While it’s never a bad idea to double-check for obvious problems, you should avoid handling any of the heater’s internal components if you don’t have any prior experience in that field. Most local gas plumbers can assess the problem within a few minutes and provide you with an answer as to whether you’re looking at a simple remedy, if your water heater is going to fail, or anything in the between.