If you’ve suddenly found yourself without hot water, your gas water heater’s pilot light may be to blame. This small flame plays a major role in heating your water; when it goes out, your system won’t be able to produce hot water until it’s relit. Fortunately, relighting a pilot light is often a simple process.
In this blog post, the plumbing professionals at Universe Home Services explain how to safely relight the pilot light and when it may be time to call the experts.
What is a Pilot Light & How Does It Work?
A pilot light is a small, continuously burning flame inside your gas water heater. It’s responsible for igniting the burner whenever the thermostat detects that the water temperature has dropped below a set point. Once the main burner is ignited, it heats the water inside the tank.
When the water is hot enough, the burner shuts off, and the pilot light continues to burn until it’s needed again. While modern water heaters may use electronic ignition instead of a traditional pilot light, many homes still rely on this traditional setup.
Signs Your Pilot Light is Out
Common signs that your pilot light might be out on your water heater include:
- No hot water: The most obvious sign is that if your taps run cold, the burner may not be firing due to a missing flame.
- Blinking light or error code: Some newer models will blink a code or display an error if the pilot is out.
- Flame isn’t visible: Look through the access panel. The pilot is likely out if you don’t see a small, steady blue flame.
- Sulfuric or gaseous odor: Do not attempt to relight the pilot if you detect a strong gas smell. Leave your home and call your gas company immediately.
How to Relight a Gas Water Heater: Step-by-Step Guide
Before beginning, check your water heater’s manufacturer instructions, as every model is slightly different. If you smell gas or feel unsure at any step, stop and contact a professional immediately.
Turn Off the Gas
Locate the gas control knob (usually labeled “On,” “Off,” and “Pilot”), and turn it to the “Off” position. Wait five to 10 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate.
Access the Pilot Light
Remove the access panel at the bottom of the water heater to view the pilot light and burner area.
Turn to “Pilot”
Turn the gas knob to “Pilot,” pressing and holding down the control knob to start the flow of gas to the pilot.
Light the Pilot
While holding the knob down, press the igniter button (you may hear clicking). If your model doesn’t have an igniter button, use a long lighter or match to ignite the pilot.
Hold & Observe
Continue holding the gas control knob down for 30 to 60 seconds after the flame is lit. Slowly release the knob. If the pilot remains lit, you’re good to go. Repeat the steps if the pilot goes out. If it continues to fail, a deeper issue may be at play that requires professional attention.
Turn the Knob to “On”
Once the pilot is steady, turn the gas knob back to the “On” position. Replace the access panel and wait for the burner to ignite as the tank reheats.
Contact Universe Home Services for Gas Water Heater Services
If your pilot light won’t stay lit or you’re uncomfortable relighting it yourself, don’t hesitate to contact Universe Home Services for the fast, professional gas water heater solutions you need. From pilot light repairs and water heater maintenance to new water heater installations and system replacements, our experienced technicians are here to help ensure safe, reliable hot water in your home.
Contact us to schedule gas water heater services and enjoy reliable hot water when you need it most.