How to Light the Pilot on a Hot Water Heater
A hot water heater is an essential appliance in any home, providing a constant supply of hot water for bathing, washing dishes, and other household uses. However, when the pilot light on your hot water heater goes out, it can leave you without hot water. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to light the pilot on a hot water heater.
Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out?
Before we dive into the steps to relight the pilot, it’s essential to understand why the pilot light might go out in the first place. Here are some common reasons:
• Dirty or clogged burner: Lint, dirt, or debris can accumulate on the burner and block the airflow, causing the pilot light to go out.
• Incorrect gas pressure: Improper gas pressure can affect the pilot light’s ability to stay lit.
• Faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple is responsible for detecting the pilot light’s heat and shutting off the gas supply when it’s extinguished. If it’s faulty, the pilot light may not stay lit.
• Old or corroded pilot orifice: The pilot orifice can become clogged or corroded over time, preventing the pilot light from burning properly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lighting the Pilot
1. Turn off the power to the hot water heater
Before attempting to light the pilot, make sure to turn off the power to the hot water heater at the circuit breaker or fuse box. This is an important safety precaution to prevent any accidents or injuries.
2. Turn off the gas supply
Locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to shut off the gas supply to the hot water heater. This valve is usually located near the top of the hot water heater.
3. Relieve any pressure
Open the relief valve by turning it counterclockwise. This valve is usually located on the side of the hot water heater. Open the pressure relief valve by lifting the handle or rotating it counterclockwise. This valve is usually located at the top of the hot water heater.
4. Remove the access panel
Locate the access panel on the front of the hot water heater and remove it. This will give you access to the pilot light area.
5. Adjust the pilot orifice
Locate the pilot orifice and clean or replace it if necessary. Make sure it’s free from any debris or blockages.
6. Light the pilot
Use a long Matches or Lighter to light the pilot. Hold the match or lighter near the pilot orifice, but not too close to the thermocouple, as this can cause the thermocouple to shut off the gas supply.
7. Adjust the gas supply
Turn the gas supply knob to the "pilot" position. You should start to see a small blue flame.
8. Hold the pilot flame
Hold the pilot flame in place for about 30 seconds to ensure that the thermocouple has detected the heat and shut off the gas supply. If the pilot flame goes out, you may need to adjust the gas supply or clean the pilot orifice.
9. Check the pilot flame
Check the pilot flame to make sure it’s burning steadily and blue. If it’s not, you may need to adjust the gas supply or clean the pilot orifice.
10. Replace the access panel
Replace the access panel and turn off the relief valve. Turn the gas supply valve back to the "on" position.
Important Safety Precautions
- Always turn off the power to the hot water heater before attempting to light the pilot.
- Keep the area well-ventilated to prevent the accumulation of carbon monoxide.
- Never attempt to relight the pilot while standing near an open flame or spark.
- If you’re not comfortable relighting the pilot yourself, consider hiring a professional plumber.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If the pilot light won’t stay lit, check the thermocouple for any blockages or damage.
- If the pilot light is blowing out frequently, check the gas supply pressure and adjust it if necessary.
- If the pilot light is not burning blue, check the burner for any debris or blockages.
Conclusion
Lighting the pilot on a hot water heater may seem like a daunting task, but with these step-by-step instructions, you should be able to do it safely and efficiently. Remember to follow all safety precautions and troubleshooting tips to ensure that your hot water heater is working properly.
