Introduction
Greetings! If you’re reading this article, chances are you’ve run into the frustrating and uncomfortable situation of having no hot water. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to relight a hot water heater. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, knowing how to relight a hot water heater is an essential skill that can save you time and money. So let’s dive in and get started!
What Causes a Hot Water Heater to Go Out?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of relighting a hot water heater, it’s important to understand why it may have gone out in the first place. A hot water heater may go out due to a variety of reasons, including:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Thermocouple failure | If the thermocouple is damaged or worn out, the pilot light will not stay lit. |
| Gas valve failure | If the gas valve is defective, gas won’t flow through the pilot light, and the water heater won’t function. |
| Power outage | If there’s a power outage, an electric water heater won’t function, and a gas heater’s pilot light may be extinguished. |
| Dirty pilot tube or burner | If the pilot tube or burner is dirty, it can cause the pilot light to go out. |
Now that we’ve covered the possible reasons for a hot water heater going out, let’s move on to how to relight it.
How to Relight a Hot Water Heater
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas
Before you start relighting the hot water heater, make sure the gas supply valve is turned off. This valve is typically located on the gas line running to the water heater.
Step 2: Remove the Access Panel
The access panel is usually located near the bottom of the hot water heater. Remove it and set it aside.
Step 3: Locate the Pilot Light Assembly
The pilot light assembly is typically located near the bottom of the heater. Look for a small gas line leading to a small burner inside the heater’s combustion chamber.
Step 4: Turn the Control Knob to “Pilot”
Find the control knob, which is typically located just above the pilot light assembly. Turn it from the “on” position to the “pilot” position.
Step 5: Press and Hold Down the Control Knob
While holding down the control knob, press the ignition button to light the pilot light. Hold the control knob down for 30 seconds after the pilot light is lit.
Step 6: Turn the Control Knob to “On”
Once the pilot light remains lit on its own, turn the control knob from “pilot” to “on.”
Step 7: Replace the Access Panel
With the pilot light now lit and the control knob in the “on” position, replace the access panel.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Relighting a Hot Water Heater
Advantages
Relighting a hot water heater can save you time, money, and inconvenience by avoiding the need to call a repair technician. It’s a relatively simple process that can be done quickly with the right tools and a bit of know-how.
Disadvantages
However, there are some disadvantages to relighting a hot water heater. If you’re unsure of what you’re doing, you could potentially create a dangerous situation by not properly turning off the gas supply or igniting the pilot light improperly. It’s also possible that relighting the pilot light won’t fix the problem, and you may need to call a repair technician anyway.
FAQs
1. Can I relight a hot water heater without any tools?
No, you will need a screwdriver and possibly a wrench to relight a hot water heater.
2. Is it safe to relight a hot water heater myself?
As long as you follow the proper steps and take necessary precautions, such as turning off the gas supply, it’s generally safe to relight a hot water heater yourself.
3. What should I do if I smell gas?
If you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the hot water heater. Leave your home immediately and call your gas company or fire department.
4. Why won’t my pilot light stay lit?
Your pilot light may not stay lit due to a damaged or worn-out thermocouple or a dirty pilot tube or burner.
5. How often should I relight my hot water heater?
You should only need to relight your hot water heater when the pilot light goes out or the heater won’t turn on.
6. How do I know if my hot water heater needs to be replaced?
If your hot water heater is more than 10 years old or is leaking water, it may need to be replaced.
7. Can I relight an electric water heater myself?
No, you should not attempt to relight an electric water heater yourself. Call a repair technician instead.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to relight a hot water heater, you can save yourself a lot of time and money by avoiding the need to call a repair technician. Just remember to take necessary precautions and follow the proper steps, and you’ll have hot water in no time!
If you’re still having trouble relighting your hot water heater after following these steps, don’t hesitate to call a professional technician.
Take Action Today!
Don’t wait until you’re without hot water to learn how to relight your hot water heater. Take action today by familiarizing yourself with the process and ensuring you have the necessary tools and knowledge to get the job done.
Closing/Disclaimer
This article is intended as a guide only, and we cannot be held responsible for any damages or injuries that may result from attempting to relight a hot water heater. If you’re unsure of what you’re doing or encounter any problems, call a professional technician.
