How to Light a Pilot on a Hot Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lighting a pilot on a hot water heater can seem daunting, but with the right steps and precautions, anyone can do it. Hot water heaters are an essential part of modern living, providing us with hot showers, clean clothes, and warm dishes. However, when the pilot light fails to ignite, it’s essential to know how to relight it to minimize downtime and ensure a hot water supply.
Basic Understanding of Pilot Lights and Hot Water Heaters
Before we dive into the step-by-step guide on how to light a pilot on a hot water heater, it’s essential to understand the basics. Here are a few key facts:
- What is a pilot light? A pilot light is a small flame that ignites the main burner in your hot water heater. When the pilot light is successful, it ignites a mixture of gas and air, which then heats water for your household.
- Why is the pilot light important? If the pilot light fails or goes out, the gas supply to the main burner is shut off, prohibiting the hot water heater from functioning.
- Basic components of a hot water heater:
- Gas valve: controlled by the thermostat, shuts off gas supply when heating is not needed
- Pilot lighter: a small flame lighter used to ignite the main burner
- Main burner: the unit that heats the water tank
- Aquastat: a heat-sensing device that opens the gas valve when there’s a demand for hot water
Step-by-Step Guide to Light a Pilot on a Hot Water Heater
Turning Off the Gas Supply
Before attempting to light the pilot, ensure the main gas supply is turned OFF. This is crucial as it prevents accidental ignition that could lead to a loss of control or even catastrophic failure.
Locate the Pilot Light
For most hot water heaters, the pilot light is either located at the bottom near the gas valve or beside the main burner. Once you’ve identified the area, follow these steps.
Step 1: Turn the Gas Solenoid Valve to “Pilot”
Access the gas solenoid valve, usually located outside the hot water heater for natural gas or near it for propane. Turn it clockwise to the "PILOT" position. Do not confuse this with "ON" or "SLEEP" positions.
| Position | Function |
| Gas Solenoid Valve Closed | Main burner is unable to function |
| Pilot Position | Allows pilot fuel to flow |
| Closed | Main burner is inhibited |
Step 2: Press and Release the Pilot Light Button (or Lighter)
Locate the pilot igniter button or lighter situated near the pilot light outlet. Press and hold down the button or lighter in the pilot light outlet orifice. Hold your hand or a flame shelter nearby to prevent your hand from getting burned!
Step 3: Light the Pilot With a Flame
Use either a long match flame or a standard lighter to ignite the pilot light. Hold it in the pilot light hole for 2-4 seconds to ensure the pilots lights. Do Not hold the flame if it doesn’t light: this could damage the porcelain or cause a fire
Step 4: Release the Pilot Valve
Release the pilot lit button or lighter. Watch the pilot light to verify it remains lit. Wait for about 30 to 60 seconds to stabilize the pilot flame.
| Time | Action |
| Up to 30 seconds after lighting | Verify pilot persists |
| 30 minutes to 1 hour (or as recommended by supplier) | Allow pilot burn to stabilize |
Repeat the Process if Necessary:
If the pilot is still not lit, verify the gas supply is at the correct pressure, purge the line, and possibly clean the pilot light injector or orifice.
Additional Tips and Precautions
- Mandatory Safety Precaution: Ensure the hot water heater is turned off BEFORE attempting to light the pilot. This prevents accidental re-ignition of flammable vapors.
- Pilot Light FAQs:
- Always turn off the gas solenoid valve when operating the pilot light.
- Keep the pilot filter clean to prevent clogged orifices.
- Check the pilot temperature setting and adjust if recommended by the manufacturer.
- Be cautious when relocating the hot water heater, as this may relocate the pilot light.
Now that you’ve successfully followed the step-by-step process, your hot water heater should be back in good working order. Remember always to prioritize safety and never attempt to relight a pilot while the gas main is ON.
