The absence of a pilot light may indicate a problem with the heater and other factors like fluctuations in gas pressure. If your pilot light is out, cold water will usually come from your hot water vents. Understanding how to restart the flame on your water heater’s pilot light as soon as possible can help you restore hot showers. Plus, it is essential to ensure that no gas accidentally leaks in the house.
To relight your water heater pilot light, follow these simple steps:
1. Disable The Gas
You should check to see that the gas is off. Find the gas regulator valve where the main gas pipe enters your water heater. To let any lingering gas escape, turn this valve to the “off” position and wait at least five minutes.
2. Find The Hot Water Pilot Light
Typically, your water heater’s pilot light is below the unit’s water tank. You might have to take off an access panel to get to it. The pilot light’s casing should resemble a tiny silver tube. Your pilot light is already on if a flame is visible at the end of this tube.
3. Examine For Any Gas Leaks
It can be hazardous to start a flame near a gas leak. Therefore, before continuing work, make sure there is no lingering gas. Sniff the air while standing beside your water heater to make sure. While leaking gas smells like rotten eggs or sulfur, natural gas is odourless. Additionally, keep an ear out for any hissing noises, which may indicate a gas leak.
Call 911 and alert them to a potential gas leak in your home if you notice any strong gas odours. When leaving the house, avoid turning any light switches on or off because doing so could produce sparks that could ignite the gas.
4. Turn On Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light
When you’re sure there is no leakage in your unit, you can relight the pilot light. Activate the regulator valve while in the “pilot” position by pressing and holding it down. For some models, the red button that regulates the gas to the pilot light may need to be pressed separately. You can always check the front of your unit for instructions that may help you locate all the valves and buttons necessary. If your unit has a separate switch, it will frequently be red and should be labeled “pilot.”
5. Confirm Your Heater Is Running And That The Flame Remains Lit
Hold the regulator valve down for at least a minute after lighting the pilot. It will then be possible for the thermocouple sensor to re-heat. Release the regulator valve slowly after a minute, then check to see if the pilot light continues to burn. If it does, you should hear a “whoosh” to confirm that your main burner has re-ignited, in which case you should turn the regulator valve to “on.” After that, your pilot light should be able to operate.
You can safely restart your water heater pilot light by following these simple steps. Suppose you didn’t sort out how your particular model works or feel more comfortable leaving it to a professional. In that case, you can always call our team at Scott’s Plumbing for professional and reliable assistance.