How to relight an automatic pilot light?

How to Relight an Automatic Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you experiencing issues with your automatic pilot light not staying lit? Don’t worry, relighting it is a relatively simple process. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to relight your automatic pilot light, ensuring your water heater, furnace, or boiler is functioning safely and efficiently.

Before You Start

Before attempting to relight your automatic pilot light, make sure you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions:

• Turn off the gas supply: Locate the shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to shut off the gas supply to the appliance. Verify that the gas is shut off by checking for gas leaks.
• Check the appliance’s manual: Familiarize yourself with your appliance’s manual, as the specific relighting procedure may vary.
• Wear protective gear: Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from potential hazards.

Common Causes of Pilot Light Issues

Before relighting your pilot light, it’s essential to identify the cause of the issue. Some common causes include:

• Dirty or clogged pilot orifice: Dirt, debris, or rust can block the pilot orifice, preventing the pilot light from staying lit.
• Faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple may be damaged or worn out, preventing the pilot light from staying lit.
• Incorrect gas pressure: Low or high gas pressure can affect the pilot light’s ability to stay lit.
• Blockages in the burner assembly: Debris or dirt can block the burner assembly, preventing the pilot light from staying lit.

Relighting the Pilot Light

Now that you’ve identified the potential cause, follow these steps to relight your automatic pilot light:

Step 1: Clean the Pilot Orifice

• Turn off the gas supply: Ensure the gas supply is shut off before attempting to clean the pilot orifice.
• Locate the pilot orifice: Find the pilot orifice, usually located at the end of the pilot assembly.
• Use a small brush or cloth: Gently clean the pilot orifice with a small brush or cloth to remove any debris or dirt.
• Reassemble the pilot assembly: Once clean, reassemble the pilot assembly and ensure it’s securely fastened.

Step 2: Check the Thermocouple

• Locate the thermocouple: Find the thermocouple, usually connected to the pilot orifice.
• Check for damage or wear: Inspect the thermocouple for any signs of damage or wear.
• Replace the thermocouple: If damaged or worn out, replace the thermocouple with a new one.

Step 3: Adjust the Gas Pressure

• Locate the gas regulator: Find the gas regulator, usually located near the gas supply line.
• Adjust the gas pressure: Adjust the gas pressure according to the manufacturer’s specifications or the recommended range.
• Check the pressure gauge: Verify the gas pressure is within the recommended range.

Step 4: Relight the Pilot Light

• Turn off the appliance: Ensure the appliance is turned off before attempting to relight the pilot light.
• Light the pilot light: Use a matches or lighter to light the pilot light.
• Hold the pilot light for 30 seconds: Hold the pilot light for 30 seconds to ensure the thermocouple heats up and the pilot light remains lit.
• Turn on the appliance: Turn on the appliance and monitor the pilot light to ensure it stays lit.

Troubleshooting Tips

If the pilot light continues to malfunction, try the following troubleshooting tips:

• Check for blockages in the burner assembly: Use a small brush or cloth to clean out any debris or dirt in the burner assembly.
• Check the pilot light adjustment: Adjust the pilot light adjustment screw to ensure proper alignment.
• Replace the pilot light assembly: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it may be necessary to replace the pilot light assembly.

Conclusion

Relighting an automatic pilot light is a relatively simple process, but it’s essential to identify the cause of the issue before attempting to relight it. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to relight your pilot light and get your appliance functioning safely and efficiently. Remember to always follow safety precautions and manufacturer’s instructions when working with gas appliances.

Pilot Light Relighting Checklist

Common Pilot Light Problems and Solutions

By following this checklist and troubleshooting guide, you should be able to successfully relight your automatic pilot light and get your appliance functioning properly.