How to Relight Water Heater Pilot: A Step-by-Step Guide
The water heater pilot light is an essential component of a water heater’s operation, responsible for igniting the burner that heats the water. If the pilot light goes out, the water heater will not function properly, leaving you without hot water. Relighting the pilot light is a relatively simple process, but it can be frustrating if you’re not familiar with it. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to relight your water heater pilot.
What is a Water Heater Pilot Light?
Before we dive into the relighting process, let’s quickly discuss what the pilot light is and its purpose.
- What is it?: The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the burner that heats the water in your water heater.
- Why is it important?: The pilot light is essential for the water heater’s operation, as it provides the initial spark that ignites the burner, which in turn heats the water.
Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out?
Before we can relight the pilot, it’s essential to understand why it might go out in the first place.
- Common causes of pilot light outage:
- Incorrectly adjusted thermocouple: The thermocouple is responsible for sensing the temperature of the pilot light and shutting off the gas supply when the flame is extinguished. If it’s not adjusted correctly, it can cause the pilot light to go out.
- Dirty or corroded pilot light orifice: The pilot light orifice is the small hole where the pilot light gas is released. If it’s dirty or corroded, it can prevent the pilot light from igniting.
- Loose or faulty thermopile: The thermopile is responsible for generating the electricity needed to ignite the pilot light. If it’s loose or faulty, it can cause the pilot light to go out.
- Water heater not properly maintained: Failure to regularly maintain the water heater, such as cleaning the burner and heat exchanger, can cause the pilot light to go out.
How to Relight the Water Heater Pilot
Relighting the pilot light is a relatively simple process, but it’s essential to follow the correct steps to ensure safe and successful relighting.
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas Supply
Before attempting to relight the pilot, you need to turn off the gas supply to the water heater.
- How to turn off the gas supply:
- Locate the gas shut-off valve, usually located near the water heater.
- Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the gas supply.
Step 2: Remove the Burner Cap
The next step is to remove the burner cap to access the pilot light orifice.
- How to remove the burner cap:
- Locate the burner cap, usually located on top of the water heater.
- Remove the cap by twisting it counterclockwise.
Step 3: Clear the Pilot Light Orifice
Use a small brush or cloth to clear any debris or corrosion from the pilot light orifice.
- How to clear the pilot light orifice:
- Insert the brush or cloth into the orifice and gently sweep it back and forth to remove any debris or corrosion.
Step 4: Relight the Pilot
Use a pilot light igniter or a long match to relight the pilot light.
- How to relight the pilot:
- Hold the igniter or match near the pilot light orifice.
- Press the igniter or hold the match to the orifice until the pilot light ignites.
- Hold the igniter or match in place for a few seconds to ensure the pilot light is stable.
Step 5: Adjust the Pilot Light
Once the pilot light is relit, you need to adjust it to ensure it’s burning properly.
- How to adjust the pilot light:
- Turn the pilot light adjustment knob counterclockwise to adjust the pilot light.
- Turn the knob clockwise to adjust the pilot light to the correct flame height.
Step 6: Turn On the Gas Supply
Once the pilot light is adjusted, you can turn on the gas supply to the water heater.
- How to turn on the gas supply:
- Locate the gas shut-off valve, usually located near the water heater.
- Turn the valve counterclockwise to turn on the gas supply.
Conclusion
Relighting the water heater pilot is a relatively simple process, but it’s essential to follow the correct steps to ensure safe and successful relighting. By understanding the common causes of pilot light outage and following the step-by-step guide, you can relight your water heater pilot and get hot water flowing again.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Pilot light won’t stay lit:
- Check the thermocouple for incorrect adjustment or damage.
- Check the pilot light orifice for debris or corrosion.
- Check the thermopile for loose or faulty connections.
- Pilot light is too high or too low:
- Adjust the pilot light adjustment knob to adjust the flame height.
- Water heater not producing hot water:
- Check the gas supply to ensure it’s turned on.
- Check the burner for blockages or damage.
- Check the thermocouple for correct adjustment.
Table: Common Causes of Pilot Light Outage
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Incorrectly adjusted thermocouple | The thermocouple is responsible for sensing the temperature of the pilot light and shutting off the gas supply when the flame is extinguished. If it’s not adjusted correctly, it can cause the pilot light to go out. |
| Dirty or corroded pilot light orifice | The pilot light orifice is the small hole where the pilot light gas is released. If it’s dirty or corroded, it can prevent the pilot light from igniting. |
| Loose or faulty thermopile | The thermopile is responsible for generating the electricity needed to ignite the pilot light. If it’s loose or faulty, it can cause the pilot light to go out. |
| Water heater not properly maintained | Failure to regularly maintain the water heater, such as cleaning the burner and heat exchanger, can cause the pilot light to go out. |
Bullets: Importance of Regular Maintenance
- Regularly cleaning the burner and heat exchanger
- Checking and replacing the thermocouple and thermopile
- Checking and replacing the pilot light orifice
- Inspecting the water heater for signs of damage or wear and tear
By following the step-by-step guide and troubleshooting tips, you can relight your water heater pilot and ensure a steady supply of hot water. Remember to regularly maintain your water heater to prevent pilot light outages and ensure safe and efficient operation.
