How Do You Light A Water Heater - ERNIEGRAVES | Process Measurement & Control

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.

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.
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How to Light a Water Heater

Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation You may see cold water flowing from your hot water faucet if you reside in a home that has a natural gas water heater. This is a good indication that your pilot light has gone out. It is not necessary to hire a professional in most circumstances; you will have hot water again in a matter of hours if the pilot is re-ignited correctly. While having your water heater’s instruction manual on hand is a good idea, it is not fully required because most gas water heaters need a similar process for relighting the pilot light, as described in this article.

1 Make that the pilot light is working properly. You will most likely need to remove a tiny panel at the bottom of the tank, known as an access panel, in order to determine whether or not the pilot light is truly turned off. If you do not see a little flame flickering, this indicates that your pilot light has failed.

Depending on your water heater model, it is conceivable that your panel is not detachable and that you must observe your pilot light via a transparent window. It is possible that your pilot light has gone out if you are unable to see a flame burning through the glass in this situation.

2 Check to see whether there is any gas leaking. Never attempt to restart your pilot light if there is gas leaking from your water heater, as this is highly harmful to both you and your property. Instead, call 911 immediately. If there is any evidence of leaking, perform a basic smell test before trying to ignite the pilot again.

Standing near to your water heater, sniff the air to see if you can notice any strange aromas. After that, get down on your knees and smell around any valves on the front and sides of the tank. Naturally, natural gas has no odor. To make it noticeable to humans, gas companies add an ingredient known as mercaptan to the mixture. When gas leaks, it has a sulfuric or rotten egg smell to it
If you notice gas leaking in either of these locations (even in a faint scent), do not attempt to relight the pilot light. Remove yourself from the vicinity of the water heater and contact your gas provider immediately
They will advise you on what to do next. Also keep an ear out for a hissing sound near the water heater, which might indicate a gas leak

Keep an eye out for any strange odors near your water heater while standing next to it. After that, get down on your knees and smell around any valves on the front and sides of the tank. Naturally, natural gas has no odor. To make it noticeable to humans, gas firms add an additive known as mercaptan to the gas. When gas leaks, it has a sulfuric or rotten egg smell to it
If you notice gas leaking in either of these locations (even in a faint scent), do not try to relight the pilot light. Remove yourself from the vicinity of the water heater and contact your gas provider immediately
They will advise you on what to do. A hissing sound near the water heater should also be heard, since this might indicate a gas leak.

Step 1: Lower the temperature control setting to the lowest possible setting. 2Find the regulator valve, which is normally situated on the front of a box on the outside of the water heater
3Find the pressure relief valve. In most cases, this valve is positioned on the same box as the temperature control, but it is more likely to be on top of the box
It regulates gas flow to the pilot burner beneath the hot water tank. To turn the knob off, turn it to the “Off” position. Wait 10 minutes after turning off the knob before proceeding to ensure that any remaining gas from the tank has cleared the air before continuing. The importance of safety cannot be overstated. 4 Determine the type of water heater that you have installed. Gas hot water heaters are often classified into two categories: “new” and “ancient.” Traditional heaters will require you to relight the pilot with your own flame, however newer design tanks are fitted with a pilot light igniter built in into the tank.

However, while the specific appearance of the buttons on modern design tanks may vary, many of them include a red igniter button that is located a few inches away from the temperature and regulator valves.

5 Gather any lighting items that may be required. The pilot light on an old-style water heater must be re-lit with a “wand” lighter or fireplace matches since the pilot is too lengthy to reach with a standard lighter.

Gather any lighting items that could be required. If you have an old-fashioned water heater, you will need to obtain a long-reach “wand” lighter or fireplace matches in order to relight the pilot light.

6Travel to the location of the pilot. The pilot is positioned at the end of the little silver tube that comes out of the control valve and is connected to the control valve. It’s possible that you’ll need to use a flashlight to see clearly in this location. Advertisement

First, put the gas valve to the “Pilot” position by pressing down on it with your finger. Starting the flow of gas into the tube that provides the pilot light is accomplished in this manner.

First, put the gas valve to the “Pilot” position by pressing down on it with your fingers. Starting the flow of gas into the tube that provides the pilot light is accomplished in this manner

2 Light the pilot burner with a match. The pilot gas valve or the red button will be held down with one hand while the other hand will be used to swiftly light the pilot.

Start the pilot burner by turning it on with a match or matchstick. The pilot gas valve or the red button will be held down with one hand while the other hand will be used to swiftly light the pilot

2 Start the pilot burner by lighting it. The pilot gas valve or the red button will be held down with one hand while the other hand swiftly ignites the pilot.

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QuestionHow can I start a newer model gas heater that is on the market? Look up your model number and get in touch with the manufacturer for more detailed information. As a general rule, the most significant difference between a modern heater and these instructions is that newer types feature an electronic igniter (you simply press the button and a spark is produced) for lighting the pilot. Question What do I name the gadget that I use to ignite the pilot’s engine when I press a button on it? You refer to it as a “spark igniter.” Question What should I do if the pilot light on my water heater keeps flickering on and off? It is likely that you will have to replace it. Make contact with a supplier or even the firm that produced your water heater for further information. Question What should I do if the pilot light won’t remain lit for whatever reason? The most likely cause of your problem is that your thermocouple has to be repaired or replaced. A pilot light is a short copper tube that connects your water heater’s controls to the pilot light and has an end that sticks into the flame. Whenever the pilot light heats up the tip, it creates electricity that is detected by the control box, which allows it to determine that the pilot light is on. A new one is simple to install, and you can pick one up at any home improvement, plumbing supply, or hardware shop. Take your old one with you so that you may acquire the right measurement. A little bit longer is OK, but not typically much shorter
Question When I press the pilot button, how long should I hold it down before pressing the little red ignitor button beneath it? It takes around 5 seconds. Restart it and make any necessary adjustments to the temperature. Question So, what should I do if the pilot light won’t turn on for whatever reason? Continue to try while keeping an eye out for any signs that there is gas coming through (usually by smell). The likelihood is that the regulator is faulty and that it will need to be replaced. This is also something that you can accomplish on your own.

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If this procedure does not provide results, check to see that the pilot light’s base is not filthy or blocked. If it is, clean it well and repeat the process after 10-15 minutes. You may also try holding the valve/control button for an additional 30-45 seconds after the pilot light has been ignited. If this technique does not work, it might be due to a lack of gas pressure or a defective gas valve. If you are unable to light the water heater after many efforts, contact an appliance repair person, a plumber, or your gas provider. You may have a faulty thermocouple if the pilot light does not come back on after being re-lit or if it goes out soon after being re-lit. It is possible to see the thermocouple in the pilot light flame region because it extends from the temperature control into the flame area. The cost of one is pretty low, and you can do it yourself.

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If you detect the scent of gas anywhere in your home, contact your gas provider right once. Even a “little quantity of gas” is too much
Do not re-open the gas valve until you have completed the replacement of the access panels and doors. It is possible that a flame will come out of the water heater if this is done.

About This Article

Summary of the Article Set the temperature control to the lowest setting and turn the gas regulator valve to the “Off” position to begin lighting an electric water heater. X Then, by adjusting the gas valve to the “Pilot” position and pressing down on it, you may begin to pump gas into the system. After that, press the red ignitor button, which is located near the gas valve, to ignite the pilot burner. Hold down the pilot button for 1 minute longer than you think it should be and check to see whether the pilot is lit.

Continue reading for helpful hints on how to prepare for and light your water heater.

The writers of this page have together authored a page that has been read 388,843 times.

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If your water heater is not heating up, it is possible that the pilot light has gone out. No matter what sort of water heater you have, the process of lighting it is straightforward. The majority of contemporary versions of gas water heaters are equipped with a straightforward ignition switch. The water heater is turned on in a matter of seconds, no trouble. If you’ve moved into an older home, on the other hand, it’s possible that your water heater is the type that requires manual activation.

Do you have a manual water heater?

There is a straightforward technique to determine if your gas water heater is automated or manual. Take a look at the box that protrudes from the side of the water heater and has two distinct dials. Automatic vehicles will feature a little ignition button adjacent to the large On/Off/Pilot dial, indicating that it is an automatic. If it is a manual, there will be no button to press. The On/Off/Pilot dial is normally located on the top of the box, whereas the temperature dial is typically located on the side of the box, as shown.

This automated water heater is equipped with a green ignition button located next to the On/Off/Pilot control dial. Taylor Martin is a contributor to CNET.

How to light an automatic water heater

The first step is to switch off the gas by looking for the knob labeled On/Off/Pilot on the control panel. You’ll want to move the knob past thePilot position and into theOff position. Allow for a five-minute dissipation of any built-up gas that may be present in the system. It’s time to start the lighting procedure at this point. Turn the water heat dial to Low and the On/Off/Pilot dial to Pilot to complete the process. Then, while simultaneously pressing the igniter button and turning the On/Off/Pilot dial down, turn the On/Off/Pilot dial up.

How to light a manual water heater

To fire this style of water heater, I recommend using a long barbeque lighter like this one. In any other case, getting in touch with the pilot will be difficult. To begin, remove the plate that is located beneath the dial-equipped box on the side of the water heater. There may also be an inner plate that you will need to shift to the side in order to complete the installation. Following that, you should notice a pipe or pipes heading to a burner. Then, in the box labeledOn/Off/PilotpastPilot, turn the knob to the Off position until it is completely off.

Turn the water temperature dial to the lowest setting and the On/Off/Pilot dial to the Pilot position.
Hold the barbeque lighter over the end of the pipe near the burner for a few seconds.
Continue to press thePilotdial downward for about 30 seconds, after which move the dial fromPilottoOn.
Important: If the burner does not come to life within a few seconds, repeat the operation until the burner does.
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How to Light a Water Heater’s Pilot Light (With Pictures)

I recommend that you use a long barbeque lighter to light this sort of water heater. Other than that, reaching the pilot will be difficult. In order to begin, remove the plate that is located beneath the box with dials on the water heater’s side. Furthermore, an inner plate that must be pushed to the side may be included as a last step. A pipe(s) going to a burner should then be visible. Then, in the box labeledOn/Off/PilotpastPilot, move the knob to the Off position, which is located on the right side.

Turn the water temperature dial to the lowest setting and the On/Off/Pilot dial to the Pilot position.
Hold the barbeque lighter over the end of the pipe near the burner for a few seconds to start the fire quickly.
For about 30 seconds, press and hold thePilotdial downward, and then flip the dial fromPilottoOn Finalize by placing the plates back over the burner hole and adjusting the water temperature dial to the appropriate temperature.
Important: If the burner does not come to life within a few seconds, repeat the entire process.

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Author’s Qualifications

15 years of experience in HVAC installation and service
5 years of experience as a home improvement contractor
Product safety, performance, and certification testing experience spanning more than two years
EPAOSHA certification. Electrical theory, thermodynamics, and refrigeration coursework have been completed

This is an illustration of what a sealed combustion chamber on this sort of device may look like. It’s your looking glass, which is represented by this small square on the panel. Take note of the differences between this sort of control module and the earlier tank-style control module. In addition to being a control, the little knob on top serves as a button. View from above in order to notice the electrical spark button to the left.

Lighting a Sealed Combustion Pilot

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

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

Make sure the gas control knob is in the “pilot” position on the top of the stove. To enable gas to flow, press and hold down the control knob itself. When you hear a click, press the electronic spark button, which should be on or affixed to your control module. If there is a little amount of air in the line and it takes a few seconds to “bleed out,” you may have to click it a few times before the pilot is lighted. Visually check ignition and maintain control of the knob for about 30-45 seconds to allow the pilot to heat the thermocouple sufficiently to confirm ignition to the thermostat in the control module.

After releasing the control knob, visually inspect the pilot to ensure that it has remained illuminated.

There may not be a need for the burners to turn on if the water has not cooled.

Lighting an Open Combustion Pilot

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

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

The gas control knob should be set to pilot mode so that the notch in the dial corresponds to the button that controls the gas flow. You’ll be able to press the button all the way down if you do it this way, as needed. Remove the panels that cover the burner compartments from the burner. With a little pulling up and out, both should come off rather easy. To fire the pilot supply line, insert your preferred flame source (lighter, match, etc.) into the chamber such that it is directly under its opening (see Figure 1).

The order of the two processes can be swapped, but I believe it is better to introduce the flame before feeding gas in order to minimize even the slightest possibility of gas buildup in the chamber.

Keep the pilot gas supply button depressed for roughly 30-45 seconds to heat the thermocouple, if this is the case.

Assuming the pilot light remained on, turn the gas control knob to the “on” position; and

Things You Can Use to Light a Pilot Light

A long, thin candle
A long, thin lighter
Long, thin matches
Short matches with a Hemostatic Clamp
A long, thin candle

Don’t Have a Lighter or Matches?

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

A Quick Water Heater Inspection You Can Do

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

If there is any wetness or corrosion in the region, check the bottom of the unit (a.k.a. blisters). Possibly, you are being warned to get ready to install a new tank. Examine whether or not the t P valve is functioning properly. Get a sense of how much gas is in your tank. It’s getting hot, right? If this is the case, you might want to think about adding an additional layer of insulation. To make sure your thermostat is working properly, test it out. You may accomplish this by reducing the heat down to the lowest setting and turning off the burners, if any are already operating in your kitchen.

Then your control could be inadequate, and you should seek expert assistance; If not, Final question: “When was the last time I cleansed my water heater?” You might want to ask yourself this question.

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?

The first thing you should do is make certain that the gas has been switched off. The gas regulator valve must first be identified. On the outside of your water heater, around the point where the main gas line enters the heater, you will often find this valve. Allow at least five minutes to pass after turning this valve to the “off” position to allow any residual gas to escape.

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

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.

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.

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

Natural gas might be a frightening prospect to deal with. It is possible, however, to safely rekindle your hot water heater pilot light at any time 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 for you. Using a staff of professional plumbers, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Duncanville provides service to the Southwest Dallas communities of Cedar Hill, Dallas, DeSoto,Duncanville, Glenn Heights, Grand Prairie, Maypearl, Midlothian, Oak Cliff, Oak Leaf, Ovilla, Red Oak, and Waxahachie.

To book an appointment, please call us at (972) 263-5010.

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?

The lack of sufficient combustible air in your gas water heater might be another reason for the pilot light on your gas water heater not to stay lit permanently. To keep the pilot light on in your water heater, you’ll need to blow on it. The flame will be extinguished if this happens. Make certain that the water heater is not surrounded by clutter, lint, or debris, since this will increase the quantity of combustible air in the vicinity. Maintain as much cleanliness as possible in the immediate vicinity.

Another reason your gas water heaterpilot light won’t remain lighted is because there isn’t enough combustible air in the system. Air is required to keep the pilot light on in your water heater operating properly. The flame will be extinguished if this is not done. Make certain that the water heater is not surrounded by clutter, lint, or debris, which might increase the quantity of combustible air present. Maintain the cleanliness of the surrounding surroundings to the greatest extent feasible.

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 Light a Hot Water Heater

There’s almost nothing worse than taking a cold shower, and if the pilot light on your hot water heater has gone out, that means it won’t be able to produce any hot water. Getting a pilot light on a water heater is a simple task that can be completed by the majority of individuals who don’t have much experience with the process. You should exercise caution if you have a faulty flame sensor since gas might be mistakenly discharged into the home if the sensor fails.

Lighting a Gas Water Heater in 7 Steps

There’s almost nothing worse than taking a cold shower, and if the pilot light on your hot water heater has gone out, that means it won’t be able to produce any hot water at all. Getting a pilot light on a water heater is a simple task that can be completed by the majority of individuals who are unfamiliar with it. There is a risk of gas being mistakenly discharged into the home if you have a faulty flame sensor, so exercise caution.

Turn off the gas valve—for your own safety, find and shut off the gas shut-off valve. Now, go get yourself a sandwich since you will need to wait around 5 minutes before continuing
Some tanks will have an open gap, most commonly beneath the gas valve, while other units may have a panel with a door that must be opened in order to access the pilot light. Search for and locate the burner- using a flashlight, locate the burner (which will have gas tubes running to and from it
Be prepared to switch on pilot mode- there is either a gas knob or a button that will allow you to engage pilot mode, which will provide you with adequate gas flow to begin the piloting procedure. The process must be started when you’re ready to go on to step 5. Light the pilot at the same time as you initiate pilot mode—while you are in pilot mode, light the pilot. Manually lighting the burner with a hand lighter may be necessary, although many versions are equipped with an ignition button that will ignite the burner. To maintain pilot mode, continue to press the gas button/knob for a full minute, then release the button/knob and check to see whether the flame is still ignited on the burner. Switching on the gas valve should result in a very pleasing “whoosh” sound from the water heater, which happens when the main burner ignites.

Alternatively, if your water heater does have an access panel, simply replace the cover and you’re done. In case you’re interested in seeing a useful video lesson, check out this youtube entry by ehowhome:

Why Do Pilot Lights Go Out?

It’s not an unusual or unexpected event, to put it mildly. It is possible that it occurs merely because the gas pressure has changed. If you are experiencing frequent problems with the pilot light, it is most likely due to one of two factors:

It is possible that you have an issue with the thermocouple. In layman’s terms, a thermocouple is a sensor that detects fire. Your thermocouple will not be able to perceive the flame if it is filthy, bent, or otherwise compromised. If it is bent, it is conceivable that you will be able to bend it back to where it should be in order for it to feel the flame. If something is filthy, it can be cleaned. In the event that it is damaged, it must be replaced. Follow the instructions in this article to learn how to replace the thermocouple. It’s possible that you have a grounded heating element. Sometimes the pilot light will not come on because the element will not turn off, even when the thermocouple is successfully turning off the water heater. Become familiar with the procedure for testing a heating element.

Water Heaters at PlumbersStock

You can contact us if you have any questions about your project or about parts and water heater accessories. We have everything you need to get your water heater up and running like new, so if you have any questions about your project or about parts and water heater accessories, please contact us. Have you considered a water heater that heats water on demand? Resources that are related to this topic include: How to Reset a Water Heater (with Pictures) How to Turn Off a Water Heater (with Pictures) Draining a Water Heater (with Pictures) Instructions on How to Turn On a Water Heater How to Increase the Temperature of a Water Heater Is there a recommended temperature for the water heater?

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.

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 Light The Pilot Light on Your Hot Water Heater

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

Before You Start

Grab a flashlight and a wand lighter to help you out. If you have a recent water heater, it is likely that it has an electric light integrated into it as well. Then, using your nose and ears, check for any leaks that may have occurred. If you notice any unusual odors or hear a hissing sound, don’t go any farther and call IT Landes in Harleysville, Pennsylvania right now. We’re specialists in everything related to water heaters, and we can come out right away to take care of any problem. Finally, look inside the device for instructions on how to turn on the pilot light, which should be located on the inner panel.

If this is the case, the actions that follow are typically relevant to the majority of water heater units.

Adjust the Temperature Control and the Gas Valve

Turn the temperature control down to “low” and turn off the gas valve for a few minutes to remove any leftover gas that may have accumulated in the appliance. Then, set the gas valve to the “pilot” position.

Find and Light the Pilot

Open the access cover and look for the pilot, which should be visible protruding from the control valve when the cover is closed. Grab the wand lighter and squeeze the gas valve to start the engine. Next, while the valve is still held in the closed position, ignite the pilot. For approximately 20-30 seconds, continue to hold down the gas valve before releasing it. The process should be repeated if the flame goes out, and the gas valve should be held down for 45 seconds to 1 minute.

Final Steps

Once the pilot light remains on, switch the valve from “pilot” to “on,” replace the access cover, and adjust the temperature dial to your chosen setting. IT Landes has been in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning sector since 1929. We’ve achieved an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau as a result of our dedication to client satisfaction.

Aside from that, we were named winners of Carrier’s President Award for quality leadership and achievement in 2019. Whether you want assistance with your water heater, ducts, furnace, or plumbing, we are here to help. Get in touch with us right now.

How to Relight the Pilot Light on Your Water Heater

Several factors might contribute to a pilot light on a water heater being turned off. The front of most water heaters will contain instructions on how to relight the pilot light, and this will usually be on the right side of the water heater. The first step is to turn off the gas to your water heater by turning off the gas control valve on the tank. Then follow these instructions to re-ignite the pilot light on your water heating system:

Remove the access panel for the water heater
Check to see if the gas valve is open (on most valves, this indicates that the valve is in line with the pipe)
And Make sure that the gas control valve on the water heater is in the pilot position. Hold the knob on the front in and press it in. For a flame to emerge on the screen, hold down the ignitor button (the black square button below the knob). Keeping the knob pressed in until the indicator light starts blinking is recommended. Using the knob, adjust the temperature to your liking.

The flame should be visible via the viewing window if you look closely enough. That indicates that your pilot light has been turned on. Although the gas control valve on your water heater may be different, the process of relighting it should be very similar. You may look up “How to relight a _” on Google and fill in the blank with the name of the brand of your water heater to see what comes up. YouTube is another excellent source of information. Gas control valves come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they might be installed on your water heater.

If you are unable to relight your pilot light, or if it does light but continues going out on you suddenly, contact a plumber you can trust for assistance in determining what is causing the problem.

How To Relight the Pilot Light in Your Gas Hot Water Heater

When the hotwater heater in your home fails, duties such as showering, doing laundry, cleaning dishes, and other household chores come to a grinding halt. If you have a gas-powered hot water heater, it is possible that the pilot light has gone out, which is the root cause of the problem. In most circumstances, if you relight the pilot, you should be able to go back into the air again. In this post, we’ll demonstrate how simple it is to complete the task yourself.

What does the pilot light do?

The pilot light of your gas hot water heater is a tiny, continuously burning flame that serves to start the burner of the appliance. To put it another way, if the pilot light goes out, the unit will be unable to heat water. It is possible for a pilot light to be extinguished for a variety of causes, including something as simple as a short stoppage in the gas line or an air bubble in the gas line. Warning: If you smell gas at any stage throughout the process, leave the area immediately and contact your energy supplier as soon as possible.

Steps to relight the pilot light.

In your gas hot water heater, the pilot light is a tiny, constantly burning flame that serves to start the burner. The pilot light must be operational in order for the device to heat water. It is possible for a pilot light to be extinguished for a variety of causes, including something as simple as a short stoppage in the gas line or an air bubble in the gas line itself. Warning: If you smell gas at any stage throughout the process, immediately leave the area and contact your energy supplier.

What happens if the pilot light goes out again?

The fact that the pilot won’t light or that it keeps going out is a clue that you may be experiencing another problem with your hot water heating system. The most typical issue we encounter is a thermocouple that is twisted, fractured, or filthy (also called a flame sensor). Because the typical service life of a hot water heater is 12-15 years, it may be a wiser investment in some situations to replace the unit rather than spend money fixing your existing unit.

if your water heater isn’t producing enough heat, call Reidelt Plumbing Inc. at (219) 322-4906 for assistance. Our professional plumbers will come out to your home, assess the situation, and provide recommendations on how to restore hot water flow in your home.

This entry was published on April 30, 2020, under the category Water Heaters.

How to relight a gas water heater pilot light

When one of our customers, Theresa, requested that we give some basic instructions on how to securely relight the pilot light on a gas water heater, we gladly obliged. Theresa, thank you for your proposal; we are pleased to assist you.

Step 1

The following instructions were requested by Theresa, one of our customers, on how to properly relight the pilot light on a gas water heater. Please accept our compliments for your proposal; we are delighted to assist you.

Step 2

Turn the gas valve to the “Pilot” position and depress the valve button (or, instead, if there is a red button beside the valve, push it down). Maintain pressure on the button to begin the flow of gas via the gas supply tube.

Step 3

Continue to press the button down and wait for the indication to light up on the screen. Some water heaters need the use of a manual light switch. If this is the case, fire the gas at the end of the supply tube using a grill lighter.

Step 4

To ensure that it illuminates, keep the button pressed down indefinitely. The manual lighting of some water heaters is required. To ignite the gas at the other end of the supply tube, use a grill lighter.

Step 5

Alternatively, if the pilot continues to glow after you remove the control button, set the dial to “on.” If the pilot goes out again or if the light does not come on, start over at Step 1 and repeat the procedure. It’s quite OK to give something a couple of tries. However, if your pilot won’t light or won’t stay lighted after a few of tries, it’s better to contact a professional for assistance.

7 Reasons Your Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

There is nothing more inconvenient than stepping into a frigid shower to begin a chilly day. It’s possible that you’ve recently found that the pilot light is constantly going out. Thousands of consumers are dissatisfied with their water heaters, which fail to function properly only a few months after installation. Is it usual for your water heater to go out on you in the middle of the night? No! Your heater should be able to easily reach the 10-year milestone without experiencing any serious problems.

Take a look at these beautiful water heaters in Phoenix.

What Is The Pilot Light?

The Pilot Light is the heart of your water heater, and it controls the flow of water. Essentially, it is a little blue flame that produces heat by burning petroleum gas. There would be no heat and, hence, no warm water if this flame were not present.

So, What Are The Reasons Your Water Pilot Light Keeps Going Out?

In the case of a water heater, the Pilot Light is its heart. To generate heat, it burns a little blue flame that is made of petroleum gas. There would be no heat and, hence, no warm water if the flame was not present.

1. An Unclean Pilot Tube

The Pilot Light is the heart of your water heater, and it controls its operation. It is a little blue flame that produces heat by burning petroleum gas. There would be no heat and, hence, no warm water if the flame were not present.

2. A Dirty Thermocouple

In the case of a water heater, the thermocouple serves as its brain. It is in charge of shutting down the gas valve when it detects that the pilot light has gone out. Because the pilot light produces an electric current, the thermocouple is activated when this current is present. It serves as a safety measure, preventing gas leaks from occurring. As a result, a filthy thermocouple might be the source of your water pilot’s inability to function properly. When a coating of filth and dust accumulates on the surface of a thermocouple, the electric current cannot reach it.

On a chilly Monday morning, there is no hot water. The solution: You’ll have to perform some more cleaning this time. To begin, shut off the main gas supply valve and allow the thermocouple to cool before proceeding. Using a new piece of sandpaper, scrape away all of the filth and grime.

3. A Kinked Thermocouple

In the case of your water heater, the thermocouple serves as its brain. After detecting that the pilot light has gone out, the gas valve must be shut off. Because the pilot light produces an electric current, the thermocouple is activated when this current is detected. A safety device that prevents gas leaks is installed. A dirty thermocouple might thus be the source of your water pilot’s inability to function properly for extended periods of time. In order for the electric current to reach the thermocouple, it must first pass through a layer of filth and dust.

On a brisk Monday morning, there is no hot water.

To begin, shut off the main gas supply valve and allow the thermocouple to cool before proceeding further.

4. A Broken Thermocouple

So, you’ve cleaned and straightened your thermocouple, but your water pilot continues to fail despite all of your efforts. You should be prepared to accept the possibility that your thermocouple is faulty at this point. Perform a diagnostic test with a multimeter on your thermocouple first, though, before you give up on it. If the voltage delivered by your thermocouple is significantly less than 20MV, then the device is almost certainly damaged and should be replaced immediately. The Solution: If the multimeter reading is near to, but not exactly at, 20MV, you can adjust the thermocouple closer to the pilot light to save energy.

5. Flex Tube Issues

Flexible tube is a long tube that links the gas controller to the burner, which contains the pilot light, thermocouple, and other components. If the flex tube is broken or blocked, the gas will not be provided to the burner for combustion to take place. Flex tube failures, on the other hand, are not as prevalent as thermocouple failures. This is why you must first inspect and ensure that your thermocouple is in excellent working order before turning your attention to the flex tube. The Solution is as follows: Straighten any kinks in the flex tubing that have formed.

Leaks in the gas line will lower the amount of gas that reaches the burner.

6. A Faulty Main Control Valve

It’s possible that you’ll never run into this situation again. We recommend that you examine the pilot tube, thermocouple, and flex tube before attempting to modify or repair this piece of equipment. The Main Control Valve Unit has a very low failure rate. However, don’t count it out just yet; it’s possible that it’s the source of your water pilot’s incessant failure. Main Control Valve: This valve is in charge of regulating the gas and water pressures of the water heater. Your water heater’s heart and soul is the thermostat.

When the gas is ignited, the main valve is fully opened, allowing for a consistent stream of gas to be provided.

A malfunctioning main control valve will cause the gas valve to close abruptly, cutting off the gas supply and resulting in a feeble flickering flame. The following are signs of a defective main control valve:

Aside from being extremely rare, it is also the most difficult to deal with. It is recommended that you first inspect the pilot tube, thermocouple, and flex tube before attempting to modify this component. There are very few instances in which the Main Control Valve Unit fails. Nonetheless, don’t rule it out for the time being
It may be the cause of your water pilot’s incessant failure to function properly. In addition to managing the gas and water pressures of the heater, the Main Control Valve is also responsible for the temperature regulation. Your water heater’s heart and soul is the tank. By sending a little amount of gas to the pilot light, it kicks off the entire procedure. When the gas is ignited, the main valve is fully opened, allowing for a consistent flow of gas to be sent to the burner. Unexpectedly closing the gas valve and cutting the gas supply will result from a malfunctioning main control valve, which will result in a faint flickering flame and gas supply interruption. One or more of the following symptoms may indicate a defective main control valve:

The solution: There is no way around a defective main control valve in this situation. However, despite the fact that there are specialists who say they can fix this, manufacturers highly advise against it. It is recommended that you replace the item to prevent incurring more expenditures and causing damage to other components of your water heater.

7. Poor Electrical Wiring

In this case, there is no way around a malfunctioning main control valve. It is possible that professionals will be able to repair this problem; nonetheless, manufacturers highly advise against this. It is recommended that you replace the item to prevent incurring more expenditures and causing damage to other components of your water heater system.

Our Final Word

If all of your methods fail and your pilot light continues to go out, it’s time to call in the heavy guns (the professionals). We’re aware. We’re aware. The services of technicians are not cheap, but at the very least you will have greater confidence in the repairs. In addition to that, we are all aware of the dangers associated with electricity and natural gas. Your safety is of the utmost importance. Did you find this information useful? Check out Why Are Trane HVAC Units So Popular? for more information.