How to Reset Pilot Light on Water Heater: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re experiencing issues with your water heater, chances are that the pilot light has gone out. But don’t worry, resetting the pilot light is a relatively simple process that can be done by anyone with basic DIY skills. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to reset the pilot light on your water heater.
What is a Pilot Light?
Before we dive into the process of resetting the pilot light, let’s first understand what it is. The pilot light is a small flame that is used to ignite the burner in your water heater. It’s usually located at the bottom of the unit and is controlled by a thermocouple, which is a sensor that monitors the temperature of the flame.
Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out?
There are several reasons why the pilot light on your water heater might go out. Some common causes include:
- Low water pressure: If the water pressure in your home is too low, it can cause the pilot light to go out.
- Dirty or clogged burner: If the burner in your water heater is dirty or clogged, it can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
- Faulty thermocouple: If the thermocouple is faulty, it can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
- Power outage: If there is a power outage in your home, the pilot light may go out.
How to Reset Pilot Light on Water Heater
Resetting the pilot light on your water heater is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas Supply
Before you start resetting the pilot light, you need to turn off the gas supply to the water heater. This is an important safety precaution to prevent any accidents or fires. You can usually find the gas shut-off valve near the water heater.
Step 2: Press the Pilot Light Button
Once the gas supply is turned off, you can press the pilot light button. This button is usually located on the control panel of the water heater and is labeled "Pilot" or "Ignite". Pressing the button will allow gas to flow to the pilot light.
Step 3: Light the Pilot Light
Use a lighter or matches to light the pilot light. You should see a small flame appear. Once the flame is lit, hold the lighter or matches near the pilot light until it stays lit for a few seconds.
Step 4: Adjust the Pilot Light
Once the pilot light is lit, you need to adjust it to the correct height. The pilot light should be adjusted so that it’s about 1/4 inch below the burner.
Step 5: Turn On the Gas Supply
Once the pilot light is adjusted, you can turn on the gas supply to the water heater. You should hear the pilot light clicking on and off as it adjusts to the correct flame height.
Step 6: Test the Pilot Light
To test the pilot light, turn off the gas supply and wait for 5 minutes. Then, turn the gas supply back on and check to see if the pilot light is still lit. If it’s not, you may need to repeat the process.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you’re having trouble resetting the pilot light on your water heater, here are some troubleshooting tips to help you:
- Check the gas supply: Make sure that the gas supply to the water heater is turned on and that there are no leaks.
- Check the pilot light button: Make sure that the pilot light button is functioning properly. If it’s not, you may need to replace it.
- Check the thermocouple: Make sure that the thermocouple is functioning properly. If it’s not, you may need to replace it.
- Check the burner: Make sure that the burner in your water heater is clean and free of debris.
Conclusion
Resetting the pilot light on your water heater is a relatively simple process that can be done in a few steps. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to reset the pilot light and get your water heater up and running again. If you’re having trouble, be sure to check for any issues with the gas supply, pilot light button, thermocouple, or burner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about resetting the pilot light on a water heater:
- Q: What happens if I don’t reset the pilot light on my water heater?
A: If you don’t reset the pilot light on your water heater, it may not function properly, which can lead to a lack of hot water or even a fire hazard. - Q: How often should I reset the pilot light on my water heater?
A: You should reset the pilot light on your water heater every 6 months to 1 year, or as recommended by the manufacturer. - Q: Can I reset the pilot light on my water heater myself?
A: Yes, you can reset the pilot light on your water heater yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable doing so, it’s recommended that you hire a professional plumber to do it for you.
Table: Common Issues with Pilot Light on Water Heater
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot light goes out frequently | Low water pressure | Check water pressure and adjust if necessary |
| Pilot light goes out frequently | Dirty or clogged burner | Clean or replace burner |
| Pilot light goes out frequently | Faulty thermocouple | Replace thermocouple |
| Pilot light won’t stay lit | Power outage | Check power outage and reset pilot light when power is restored |
By following the steps outlined in this article and troubleshooting common issues, you should be able to reset the pilot light on your water heater and get it functioning properly again.
