The Importance of Knowing How to Relight the Pilot Light on Your Water Heater
Imagine coming home from a long day at work, looking forward to a hot shower, only to find out that your water heater is not working. It can be frustrating and inconvenient to have to wait for a technician to come and fix it. However, before you call for help, there is one simple thing you can do – check if the pilot light is lit. Many times, the pilot light goes out, preventing the water heater from functioning. Knowing how to relight the pilot light can save you time, money, and the hassle of waiting for a technician. In this article, we’ll show you everything you need to know to safely relight the pilot light on your water heater.
How to Safely Relight the Pilot Light on Your Water Heater
Before we dive into the steps, it’s essential to know that safety should always come first. Before attempting to relight the pilot light, make sure you follow these safety precautions:
1. Turn off the gas supply valve.
Before starting any work on your water heater, make sure you turn off the gas supply valve. The valve is typically located near the bottom of the water heater, and it should be turned off by twisting the handle until it is perpendicular to the gas line.
2. Allow the gas to dissipate.
After turning off the gas supply valve, wait for at least five minutes for the gas to dissipate. This is to ensure that no gas is present around the water heater, which can be dangerous.
3. Avoid using an open flame near the water heater.
Make sure you don’t use an open flame or anything that can ignite gas near the water heater. This includes matches, lighters, candles, or cigarettes.
4. Ventilate the area well.
During the process of relighting the pilot light, some gas may escape, so it’s essential to have proper ventilation to avoid inhaling any gas. Open windows and doors and turn on fans to keep the air moving.
5. Use protective gear.
Wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses to ensure that you are protected from any potential hazards.
6. Refer to your water heater’s manual.
Make sure you refer to your water heater’s manual before attempting to relight the pilot light. Your manual may have specific instructions or requirements that are unique to your water heater.
Step-by-Step Guide to Relighting the Pilot Light
Now that you understand the safety precautions, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on how to safely relight the pilot light on your water heater.
Step 1: Locate the pilot light.
The pilot light is usually located at the bottom of the water heater, near the burner. You may have to remove the access panel or insulation to locate it.
Step 2: Turn the control knob to the “Off” position.
Find the control knob near the pilot light and turn it to the “Off” position.
Step 3: Wait for five minutes.
Wait for at least five minutes to allow the gas to dissipate.
Step 4: Locate the pilot burner.
The pilot burner is a small tube that is connected to the gas valve. It has a small hole where the gas comes out. Make sure it’s clean and free of any debris.
Step 5: Turn the control knob to the “Pilot” position.
Turn the control knob to the “Pilot” position and press it down. While holding it down, use a long lighter or match to ignite the gas at the pilot burner.
Step 6: Continue holding the control knob down.
After the flame is ignited, continue holding the control knob down for at least 30 seconds. This will allow enough time for the thermocouple to heat up, which will keep the pilot light lit.
Step 7: Release the control knob.
After 30 seconds, release the control knob. The pilot light should remain lit.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Relighting the Pilot Light Yourself
While relighting the pilot light on your water heater is a task that can save you time and money, there are also some advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Advantages:
Cost-effective:
Hiring a technician to come and relight the pilot light can be expensive. Doing it yourself can save you the cost of a service call and labor.
Convenience:
Relighting the pilot light yourself can be convenient. You won’t have to wait for a technician to come and fix your water heater, and you can have hot water again in no time.
Learning experience:
Relighting the pilot light yourself can be a learning experience. It can increase your knowledge and understanding of how your water heater works.
Disadvantages:
Risk of injury:
Relighting the pilot light can be dangerous if done incorrectly. There is a risk of gas leaks, fires, and explosions.
Voiding the warranty:
If your water heater is still under warranty, attempting to relight the pilot light yourself can void the warranty. Make sure you read the warranty details before attempting any DIY repairs.
Lack of expertise:
Relighting the pilot light can be challenging if you don’t have prior experience. It’s essential to follow the manual’s instructions and safety precautions to avoid any harm.
| Tools and Materials Needed | |
|---|---|
| Long lighter or matches | |
| Gloves and safety glasses | |
| Your water heater’s manual | |
| Wrench or pliers (if required to remove the access panel) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I know if the pilot light is out?
A: If your water heater is not heating water, either the pilot light is out, or there is a more significant problem. To check if the pilot light is out, you can look at the small window near the bottom of the water heater’s access panel. If you can’t see a flame, the pilot light is out.
Q2: Can I relight the pilot light if I smell gas?
A: No, if you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the pilot light. Turn off the gas supply valve and call a technician immediately.
Q3: How long does it take for the thermocouple to heat up?
A: The thermocouple usually takes around 30 seconds to one minute to heat up.
Q4: Can I use a lighter instead of a long lighter?
A: No, using a regular lighter can be dangerous as it puts your hand too close to the pilot light. Always use a long lighter or matches to relight the pilot light.
Q5: Is it safe to relight the pilot light on my gas water heater?
A: Yes, it’s safe to relight the pilot light as long as you follow the safety precautions and instructions in your water heater’s manual.
Q6: Can I relight the pilot light on an electric water heater?
A: No, electric water heaters don’t have a pilot light.
Q7: Can I relight the pilot light if I have a tankless water heater?
A: Yes, you can relight the pilot light on a tankless water heater. However, the process may differ from a traditional water heater. Refer to your manual for specific instructions.
Q8: How often should I relight the pilot light on my water heater?
A: The pilot light should stay lit for a long time. If it keeps going out, there may be a problem with the thermocouple, and you should call a technician.
Q9: How can I prevent the pilot light from going out?
A: To prevent the pilot light from going out, make sure the area around the water heater is free of debris and dust, and the air vents are clean. It’s also essential to keep your water heater well-maintained and serviced regularly.
Q10: How long does it take for the water to heat up after relighting the pilot light?
A: After relighting the pilot light, it can take up to an hour for the water to heat up to the desired temperature.
Q11: Is it okay to leave the pilot light on all the time?
A: Leaving the pilot light on all the time can be a waste of gas. However, it can be convenient if you need hot water regularly. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding to leave it on all the time.
Q12: Can I relight the pilot light at night?
A: Yes, you can relight the pilot light at night. However, it’s essential to have sufficient lighting and ventilation.
Q13: How can I tell if my water heater needs to be replaced instead of repaired?
A: If your water heater is more than ten years old, has frequent problems, leaks, or is not heating properly, it may be time to replace it. You should consult with a technician to determine if it’s more cost-effective to replace or repair your water heater.
Conclusion
Relighting the pilot light on your water heater can be a simple and cost-effective way to fix a common problem. However, it’s essential to follow the safety precautions and instructions in your manual to avoid any potential hazards. If you feel unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s best to call a technician. Remember, safety should always come first.
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Closing/ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your water heater’s manual before attempting any repairs. Any action you take upon the information in this article is strictly at your own risk, and we will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with the use of this article.
