Introduction
Welcome to our guide on how to turn pilot light on water heater – a crucial skill that every homeowner should have. If you’re having trouble with your water heater, the pilot light is likely the culprit. Thankfully, this is a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself, without calling in a professional. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about turning on the pilot light on your water heater, including the advantages and disadvantages of doing it yourself. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to tackle this task on your own.
What is a Pilot Light?
Before we get started, let’s take a closer look at what a pilot light is and why it’s important. A pilot light is a small flame that burns continuously to ignite the burners of your water heater. It’s an essential part of your water heater’s operation, as without it, your water heater won’t work. The pilot light uses a small amount of gas to stay lit, regardless of whether your water heater is in use or not. It’s a simple and reliable system that has been used for decades in all types of water heaters.
How Do You Know If Your Pilot Light is Out?
If your water heater is not producing hot water, there’s a good chance that your pilot light is out. Here are some signs that your pilot light may be out:
| Signs that your Pilot Light is Out |
|---|
| No hot water |
| Water is not hot enough |
| Water smells like gas |
| You hear a hissing sound |
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to check your pilot light to see if it’s out. If it is, you’ll need to relight it in order to get your water heater working again.
How to Turn On Pilot Light on Water Heater
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas and Wait
Before you attempt to relight the pilot light, you need to turn off the gas supply to your water heater. This is important for safety reasons, as leaving the gas on while attempting to light the pilot light can be dangerous. Once you’ve turned off the gas supply, wait at least 5 minutes to allow any built-up gas to dissipate before attempting to light the pilot light.
Step 2: Remove the Access Panel
Next, locate the access panel on your water heater. This panel is typically located near the bottom of the heater, and can be removed with a screwdriver or a wrench. Once you’ve removed the panel, set it aside in a safe place.
Step 3: Locate the Pilot Light
Now that you have access to the inside of your water heater, locate the pilot light. It’s a small tube that’s usually located near the bottom of the heater, near to the burner assembly.
Step 4: Turn the Knob to Pilot
With a long lighter or a match in hand, turn the knob on the control panel to “pilot”. This will allow you to light the pilot light manually.
Step 5: Light the Pilot Light
Now, use your long lighter or match to carefully light the pilot light. Hold the flame up to the pilot light tube until it catches fire. This may take a few seconds, so be patient. Once the pilot light is lit, continue to hold the knob down for a few seconds.
Step 6: Turn the Knob to On
After a few seconds, release the knob and turn it to the “on” position. This will allow the burner to ignite and start heating your water. You should now have hot water again!
Step 7: Replace the Access Panel
Finally, replace the access panel and secure it with screws or bolts. You’re now done!
Advantages and Disadvantages of Relighting Pilot Light on Water Heater
Advantages
Save Money: Relighting the pilot light on your own can save you money on professional service fees.
Quick Fix: Relighting the pilot light is a quick fix that can be done in just a few minutes.
Convenient: You don’t need to wait for a professional to come and fix your water heater. You can do it on your own time and schedule.
Disadvantages
Difficulty: For some homeowners, relighting the pilot light can be difficult or complicated.
Dangerous: If not done properly, relighting the pilot light can be dangerous and lead to gas leaks or explosions.
No Guarantee: If your pilot light keeps going out, it may be a sign of a bigger problem with your water heater that needs professional attention.
FAQs
How often should you relight the pilot light?
You only need to relight the pilot light if it goes out. If it keeps going out, it may be a sign of a bigger problem that needs professional attention.
Why does the pilot light go out?
There are several reasons why the pilot light may go out, including a dirty pilot tube, a faulty thermocouple, or a gas supply issue.
Can you relight the pilot light on a gas water heater yourself?
Yes, you can relight the pilot light on a gas water heater yourself. However, be sure to follow all safety precautions, and if you’re unsure, call in a professional.
Is it dangerous to relight the pilot light?
Relighting the pilot light can be dangerous if not done properly. Be sure to follow all safety precautions, including turning off the gas supply and waiting for any built-up gas to dissipate.
How long does it take to relight the pilot light?
Relighting the pilot light should only take a few minutes, once you know how to do it.
How do I know if my pilot light is lit?
You can check if your pilot light is lit by looking at it through the access panel on your water heater. If it’s on, you should be able to see the small flame burning.
What should I do if the pilot light won’t stay lit?
If the pilot light won’t stay lit, it may be a sign of a bigger problem with your water heater. Call in a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.
Is it normal for the pilot light to fluctuate?
It’s normal for the pilot light to fluctuate slightly, but if it’s flickering rapidly, it may be a sign of a problem. Call in a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.
Can I relight the pilot light if I smell gas?
No, if you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the pilot light. Turn off the gas supply and call in a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.
What should I do if the pilot light won’t ignite?
If the pilot light won’t ignite, ensure that the gas supply is turned on and wait a few minutes for any built-up gas to dissipate. If it still won’t ignite, call in a professional.
What should I do if the pilot light goes out again?
If the pilot light goes out again, it may be a sign of a bigger problem with your water heater. Call in a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.
Can I relight a pilot light on an electric water heater?
No, electric water heaters don’t have a pilot light to relight. If you have an electric water heater and it’s not working, call in a professional.
How much does it cost to relight a pilot light?
Relighting the pilot light yourself is free, but if you need to call in a professional, the cost will vary depending on your location and the service provider.
Conclusion
Relighting the pilot light on your water heater is a crucial skill that every homeowner should have. By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to do it yourself quickly and safely. Remember to always follow all safety precautions and if you’re not confident, call in a professional. With this knowledge, you can save money and time by fixing your water heater on your own. Don’t let a simple problem like a pilot light outage ruin your day!
Take Action Now!
If your water heater is not producing hot water, take action now and check your pilot light to see if it’s out. With our guide, you can easily relight the pilot light on your own and get your hot water back in no time. Don’t wait for a professional – take control of the situation and fix it yourself!
Closing and Disclaimer
While we’ve done our best to provide accurate and up-to-date information in this article, we cannot be held responsible for any damages or injuries that may result from attempting to relight your pilot light on your own. If you’re unsure or feel unsafe, call in a professional. Always follow all safety precautions and use proper tools and equipment. Good luck!
