How to Re-Light Your Water Heater Pilot Light

When you get into the shower, you expect the water to get nice and hot fast. If a freezing deluge greets you instead, you know something’s amiss. The typical offender behind this uncomfortable, harsh 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 simple, step-by-step plan from the pros at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing listed below, and you’ll soon be back to taking advantage of those hot showers.

Steps to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light

To start out, read the user’s manual for your water heater model. Instructions vary, and you should get all the details you need in the manual. If you don’t have the printed copy that came with the unit, look up the model number online to pull up a digital version. Nevertheless, the following actions should apply for many gas water heaters:

1. Locate the gas shut-off valve, which generally is plainly marked on the lower front part of your water heater. Move 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 usually located under the gas valve. On occasion, there isn’t a door; instead, you might see the pilot light burner by peering into a small opening.
3. Find a flashlight or headlamp. Next, peer into the pilot light access and find two small gas tubes leading to the burner. Watch this spot as you proceed with lighting the water heater pilot.
4. Switch the gas knob to “Pilot.” This movement lets the gas flow, prepping the pilot light for ignition. Some units have a designated red button for pilot mode, which you should press and hold.
5. Relight the pilot light while still holding down the gas knob or button. Your water heater might have an igniter button, often red or black. If not, you’ll need a long lighter to light the pilot physically.
6. Hold down the gas knob or button for approximately 30 to 60 seconds after the flame catches. Be certain the flame remains 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 roars back to life.
8. Replace the access cover or door. Give your water heater roughly 20 to 60 minutes to heat the water, and you’ll be ready to enjoy that hot shower!

a Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit?

Needing to relight the pilot every now and then is usually not a major cause for concern. But, there could be a bigger underlying issue if the water heater pilot light will not stay lit. Some common factors that cause this problem are:

• Dirty thermocouple: The thermocouple is an automatic safety shut-off, shutting off gas flow when the pilot light is out. If this component is misaligned, dirty or damaged, you may face frequent pilot light issues. Reposition the thermocouple just a tiny bit and try lighting the pilot again. If that doesn’t get the job done, you may need to clean it. And if that proves ineffective, it might be necessary to replace the thermocouple, an easy task for a licensed technician.
• Dirty pilot opening: If your pilot light gives off a yellow flame, it’s very likely due to a dirty pilot opening. This can restrict the thermocouple’s operation, leading to pilot light instability.
• Weak or defective gas regulator: Problems with this component may lead to an inadequate gas supply needed to maintain the pilot light. If more than one of the gas appliances in your residence have similar problems, take a look at the regulator.
• Gusty conditions: Water heaters frequently share a utility closet with the furnace, which demands fresh air to function properly. Powerful drafts from this air intake can extinguish the 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 problems with your water heater pilot light in Canada, don’t hesitate to call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, effective cures to all your comfort troubles. Everything we do is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not delighted with our work, we’ll work to resolve it. We are leaders in innovation and customer service, with rich community involvement that is a reflection of our commitment to your comfort. Call 866-397-3787 today to reach the professional staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We’re ready to make a major difference in your life, one hot shower at a time.