Easy Ways to Re-Light a Water Heater Pilot Light

When you walk into the shower, you count on the water to get nice and hot fast. If an icy blast greets you instead, you know something’s not right. The typical root cause 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 quick, step-by-step process from the pros at A1 Chesney Service Experts outlined below, and you’ll soon be back to enjoying those hot showers.

Tips on How to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light

To start out, read the user’s manual for your water heater model. Instructions differ from brand to brand, and you should get all the details you need in the manual. If you’ve misplaced the original copy that came with the installation, look up the model number online to pull up a digital version. Nevertheless, the following steps should apply for many gas water heaters:

1. Find the gas shut-off valve, which you’ll usually find distinctly 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 allow any residual gas to dissipate.
2. Open the pilot light access cover or door, which is commonly found below the gas valve. On occasion, there isn’t a door; instead, you could possibly see the pilot light burner through a small opening.
3. Arm yourself with a flashlight or headlamp. Next, peer into the pilot light access and look for two small gas tubes leading to the burner. Watch this spot as you go ahead with lighting the water heater pilot.
4. Switch the gas knob to “Pilot.” This move lets the gas flow, preparing the pilot light for ignition. Some units have a specific 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 by hand.
6. Hold down the gas knob or button for roughly 30 to 60 seconds after the flame ignites. Be certain the flame is staying 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 comes back to life.
8. Put the access cover or door back on. Give your water heater roughly 20 to 60 minutes to reheat 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 once in a while isn’t a cause for concern. But, there could be a bigger underlying issue if the water heater pilot light will not stay lit. Some frequent causes of this are:

• Dirty thermocouple: The thermocouple is an automatic safety shut-off, stopping gas flow when the pilot light isn’t on. If this element is misaligned, dirty or damaged, you may face frequent pilot light problems. Wiggle the thermocouple just a tiny bit and try lighting the pilot again. If that doesn’t work, 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 hinder the thermocouple’s functioning, causing pilot light instability.
• Weak or malfunctioning gas regulator: Issues with this component may lead to an inadequate gas supply needed to maintain the pilot light. If several gas appliances in your dwelling have similar problems, take a look at the regulator.
• Drafty conditions: Water heaters frequently share a utility closet with the furnace, which demands fresh air to operate properly. Strong drafts from this air intake can blow out your pilot light.

Congrats, Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light is Lit. Let A1 Chesney Service Experts Keep it That Way!

If you’re still having difficulty with your water heater pilot light in Calgary, don’t hesitate to call A1 Chesney Service Experts. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, effective remedies to all your comfort woes. Everything we do is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not delighted with our efforts, we’ll work to make it right. We are leaders in innovation and customer engagement, with rich community involvement that is a sign of our commitment to your comfort. Call 587-315-5271 today to reach the qualified staff at A1 Chesney Service Experts. Let us make a major difference in your life, one hot shower at a time.