How to Re-Light Your Water Heater Pilot Light

When you walk into the shower, you count on the water to get nice and hot within a few seconds. If a freezing blast greets you instead, you know something’s wrong. The typical root cause behind this nasty, harsh surprise is a water heater pilot light that’s gone out.

Don’t worry—relighting the pilot doesn’t require an engineering degree. Follow the quick, step-by-step plan from the pros at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing listed below, and you’ll soon be back to delighting in those hot showers.

Ways You Can Easily Light a Water Heater Pilot Light

First, read the user’s manual specific to your water heater model. Instructions differ from brand to brand, and you should find all the details you need in the manual. If you can’t find the printed copy that came with the unit, look up the model number online to locate a digital version. Still, the following steps should apply for most gas water heaters:

1. Look for the gas shut-off valve, which typically is plainly marked on the lower front part of your water heater. Turn this knob to the “Off” position and wait for five to 10 minutes to allow any remaining gas to dissipate.
2. Open the pilot light access cover or door, which is commonly located beneath the gas valve. On occasion, there isn’t a door; instead, you may see the pilot light burner if you look in a small opening.
3. Find a flashlight or headlamp. After that, peer into the pilot light access and find two small gas tubes leading to the burner. Watch this part of your water heater as you proceed with lighting the water heater pilot.
4. Turn the gas knob to “Pilot.” This action lets the gas flow, preparing the pilot light for ignition. Some units have a specified red button for pilot mode, which you should press and hold.
5. Light the pilot light while still holding down the gas knob or button. Your home’s water heater may have an igniter button, frequently red or black. If it doesn’t, you’ll need a long lighter to light the pilot physically.
6. Press down the gas knob or button for approximately 30 to 60 seconds after the flame sparks. Make sure the flame is staying lit. 
7. Switch the gas knob to “On.” You should hear a whump or whoosh sound as the main burner lights and your water heater comes back to life.
8. Place the door or access cover back on the unit. Give your water heater about 20 to 60 minutes to heat the water, and you’ll be ready to enjoy that hot shower!

What if {the Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit?

Needing to relight the pilot every now and then is not a cause for concern. But, there could be a more severe underlying issue if the water heater pilot light will not stay lit. Some frequent reasons behind this issue are:

• Damaged thermocouple: The thermocouple is an automatic safety shut-off, preventing gas flow when the pilot light isn’t on. If this element is misaligned, dirty or damaged, you may face frequent pilot light problems. Reposition the thermocouple a little bit and try lighting the pilot once more. If that doesn’t do the trick, you might need to clean it. And if that proves unproductive, it could be necessary to replace the thermocouple, an easy task for a licensed technician.
• Dirty pilot opening: If your pilot light produces a yellow flame, it’s probably due to a dirty pilot opening. This can hinder the thermocouple’s functioning, leading to pilot light instability.
• Weak or faulty gas regulator: Trouble with this component could lead to an inadequate gas supply needed to maintain the pilot light. If several gas appliances in your dwelling have similar challenges, check the regulator.
• Drafty conditions: Water heaters often share a utility closet with the furnace, which demands fresh air to operate properly. Powerful drafts from this air intake can blow out your pilot light.

So, You Re-Lit Your Pilot Light? Let Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Keep it That Way!

If you’re still having issues with your water heater pilot light in the U.S., contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, helpful solutions to all your comfort worries. Everything we do is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not pleased with our efforts, we’ll work to fix it. We are leaders in innovation and customer service, with deep community involvement that is a sign of our commitment to your comfort. Call 866-397-3787 today to reach the qualified staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’re ready to make a meaningful difference in your life, one hot shower at a time.