Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to light the pilot on a water heater. This is an essential skill to have as a homeowner, as it will save you time and money on costly repairs. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about lighting the pilot on your water heater, including the advantages and disadvantages, FAQs, and a step-by-step guide.
If you have never lit the pilot on a water heater before, don’t worry. We will guide you through the process step-by-step. Before we get started, it’s essential to understand why you need to light the pilot in the first place.
Why Do You Need to Light the Pilot?
The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner in your water heater. Without it, your water heater won’t produce hot water. Over time, the pilot light can go out, and you’ll need to relight it. If you don’t know how to light the pilot, you may need to call a professional plumber, which can be expensive.
That’s why it’s essential to learn how to light the pilot on your water heater. It’s a simple and easy process that anyone can do with the right tools and knowledge. In the next section, we’ll cover step-by-step instructions on how to light the pilot on a water heater.
How to Light the Pilot on a Water Heater: Step-by-Step Instructions
Before we get started, it’s essential to gather all the tools you’ll need for the job. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Flashlight | Long matchstick or butane lighter | Adjustable wrench |
Once you have all the tools, here’s how to light the pilot on a water heater:
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas Valve
Before you begin, make sure the gas valve on your water heater is in the “off” position. It’s usually located on the bottom of the water heater and has a knob that you can turn to the “off” position. To turn it off, turn the knob clockwise until it stops.
Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light
The pilot light is located inside the water heater’s combustion chamber. It’s usually located near the bottom of the tank and can be hard to see. You may need to use a flashlight to locate it.
Step 3: Remove the Cover Plate
Once you’ve located the pilot light, you’ll need to remove the cover plate. You can usually do this by unscrewing it with a screwdriver or using your hands.
Step 4: Turn the Knob to “Pilot”
Once you’ve removed the cover plate, locate the gas control knob. It should be near the pilot light and have three settings: “on,” “off,” and “pilot.” Turn the knob to the “pilot” position.
Step 5: Press and Hold the Knob Down
With the knob in the “pilot” position, press it down and hold it. This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light.
Step 6: Light the Pilot Light
While holding the knob down, use a long matchstick or butane lighter to light the pilot light. Hold the flame to the pilot light until it ignites.
Step 7: Hold the Knob Down for 60 Seconds
Once the pilot light is lit, continue to hold the knob down for 60 seconds. This will allow the thermocouple to heat up and keep the gas flowing to the pilot light.
Step 8: Turn the Knob to “On”
After 60 seconds, turn the knob to the “on” position. This will allow gas to flow to the burner, and your water heater should start producing hot water.
Step 9: Replace the Cover Plate
Once the pilot light is lit, and the gas valve is back on, replace the cover plate on the water heater. You’re done!
Advantages and Disadvantages of Lighting the Pilot on a Water Heater
Advantages
Lighting the pilot on a water heater has several advantages:
- Cost-effective: You don’t need to call a professional plumber to light the pilot, which can save you money.
- Convenient: You can do it yourself at any time without having to wait for a plumber to come.
- Simple: It’s a straightforward process that anyone can learn with the right tools and knowledge.
Disadvantages
Lighting the pilot on a water heater has some disadvantages:
- Unsafe: If you don’t follow the instructions carefully, it can be dangerous. Make sure you turn off the gas valve before starting.
- Time-consuming: It can take some time to locate the pilot light and light it, especially if you’re doing it for the first time.
- Requires tools: You’ll need a few tools, such as a flashlight and an adjustable wrench, to do the job.
FAQs
1. How often should I light the pilot on my water heater?
You should only need to light the pilot on your water heater if it goes out. If it goes out frequently, you may need to call a plumber to inspect it.
2. Is it safe to light the pilot on a water heater?
Yes, it’s safe to light the pilot on a water heater as long as you follow the instructions carefully and turn off the gas valve before starting.
3. What should I do if the pilot light won’t stay lit?
If the pilot light won’t stay lit, you may need to replace the thermocouple or call a professional plumber to inspect it.
4. How long should I hold the knob down after lighting the pilot?
You should hold the knob down for 60 seconds after lighting the pilot to allow the thermocouple to heat up.
5. What tools do I need to light the pilot on a water heater?
You’ll need a flashlight, long matchstick or butane lighter, and an adjustable wrench.
6. Do I need to turn off the gas valve before lighting the pilot?
Yes, you should always turn off the gas valve before lighting the pilot on your water heater.
7. Can I light the pilot on my water heater myself?
Yes, you can light the pilot on your water heater yourself if you have the right tools and follow the instructions carefully.
8. What should I do if I smell gas after lighting the pilot?
If you smell gas after lighting the pilot, turn off the gas valve immediately and call a professional plumber.
9. Why does the pilot light keep going out?
The pilot light may keep going out if there’s a problem with the thermocouple or gas supply. You may need to call a plumber to inspect it.
10. Can I relight the pilot on my water heater if it’s leaking?
No, if your water heater is leaking, you should turn off the gas valve and call a professional plumber.
11. How long does it take to light the pilot on a water heater?
It usually takes a few minutes to locate the pilot light and light it.
12. Can I use a lighter instead of a matchstick to light the pilot?
Yes, you can use either a long matchstick or butane lighter to light the pilot on your water heater.
13. Do I need to replace the thermocouple after lighting the pilot?
No, you don’t need to replace the thermocouple after lighting the pilot unless it’s damaged or not working correctly.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now know how to light the pilot on a water heater. It’s a straightforward process that anyone can do with the right tools and knowledge. Remember to follow the instructions carefully, turn off the gas valve before starting, and hold the knob down for 60 seconds after lighting the pilot. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. Thanks for reading!
Closing Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always consult a licensed plumber before attempting to light the pilot on your water heater or making any repairs. The author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any damages or injuries that may occur from following the instructions in this article.
