Steps to Re-Light Your Water Heater Pilot Light

When you step into the shower, you know the water will get nice and hot fast. If an ice-cold blast greets you instead, you know something’s amiss. The typical offender behind this uncomfortable, chilly surprise is a water heater pilot light that’s gone out.

Don’t worry—relighting a water heater pilot doesn’t require specialized skills. Follow the easy, step-by-step process from the pros at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing outlined below, and you’ll soon be back to delighting in those hot showers.

Tips on How to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light

First, read the user’s manual for your water heater model. Instructions vary, and you should find everything you need in the manual. If you’ve misplaced the paper copy that came with the installation, look up the model number online to locate a digital version. Still, the following steps should apply for many gas water heaters:

1. Locate the gas shut-off valve, which typically is clearly marked on the lower front part of your water heater. Switch this knob to the “Off” position and wait for five to 10 minutes to let any remaining gas to dissipate.
2. Open the pilot light access cover or door, which is normally found beneath the gas valve. Occasionally, there isn’t a door; instead, you might see the pilot light burner through a small opening.
3. Arm yourself with a flashlight or headlamp. Then, peer into the pilot light access and look for two small gas tubes leading to the burner. Monitor this spot as you continue with lighting the water heater pilot.
4. Switch the gas knob to “Pilot.” This movement 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. The water heater might have an igniter button, typically red or black. If not, you’ll need a long lighter to light the pilot manually.
6. Press down the gas knob or button for approximately 30 to 60 seconds after the flame catches. Make sure the flame stays lit. 
7. Rotate the gas knob to “On.” You should hear a whump or whoosh sound as the main burner lights and your water heater roars back to life.
8. Put the access cover or door back on. Give your water heater about 20 to 60 minutes to warm 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 from time to time is usually not a major cause for concern. But, there could be a more severe underlying issue if the water heater pilot light will not stay lit. Some typical factors that cause this problem are:

• Dirty thermocouple: The thermocouple is an automatic safety shut-off, shutting off gas flow when the pilot light isn’t on. If this component is misaligned, dirty or damaged, you may face frequent pilot light problems. Move the thermocouple slightly and try lighting the pilot a second time. If that doesn’t get the job done, you might need to clean it. And if that proves ineffective, it may be necessary to replace the thermocouple, a very basic task for a professional technician.
• Dirty pilot opening: If your pilot light produces a yellow flame, it’s likely due to a dirty pilot opening. This can restrict the thermocouple’s functioning, causing pilot light instability.
• Weak or faulty gas regulator: Issues with this component could lead to an inadequate gas supply needed to maintain the pilot light. If multiple gas appliances in your home have similar problems, take a look at the regulator.
• Breezy conditions: Water heaters often share a utility closet with the furnace, which needs fresh air to operate properly. Stiff drafts from this air intake can extinguish the pilot light.

Congrats, Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light is Lit. Let Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Keep it That Way!

If you’re still having problems with your water heater pilot light in the U.S., don’t hesitate to call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, reliable solutions to all your comfort troubles. Everything we do is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not pleased with our work, we’ll work to resolve it. We are leaders in innovation and customer service, with deep community involvement that reflects our commitment to your comfort. Call 866-397-3787 today to reach the skilled staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’re standing by to make a major difference in your life, one hot shower at a time.