How to Tell if the Pilot Light is Out on a Water Heater?
Having a reliable water heater is essential for any home. A water heater malfunction can leave you without hot water, which can be inconvenient and even uncomfortable, especially during winter months. One of the most common issues that can occur with a water heater is a blown pilot light. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to identify if the pilot light is out on your water heater and what to do about it.
Why is it Important to Know if the Pilot Light is Out?
A pilot light is a small flame that is responsible for igniting the burner that heats the water in your tank. When the pilot light is out, the burner will not work, and you will be left without hot water. In addition, if the pilot light is out, you may notice that the water heater is producing an unusual odor or noise.
Signs that the Pilot Light is Out
There are several signs that may indicate that the pilot light is out on your water heater:
• No hot water: If you are not getting any hot water, it could be a sign that the pilot light is out.
• Clicking or buzzing sound: When the pilot light is out, you may hear a clicking or buzzing sound coming from the water heater.
• Strange smell: A blown pilot light can cause the water heater to produce an unusual odor, such as the smell of gas or rust.
• Water is lukewarm: If the water coming out of the shower or sink is only lukewarm, it could be a sign that the pilot light is out.
How to Check if the Pilot Light is Out
To check if the pilot light is out, follow these steps:
- Locate the pilot light: Find the pilot light assembly, usually located at the bottom of the water heater tank.
- Turn off the gas supply: Make sure the gas supply is turned off by flipping the shut-off valve. You may need to access the valve by removing the water heater’s cover or looking behind the water heater.
- Allow the gas to clear: Allow the gas to clear out of the system for at least 5-10 minutes before attempting to relight the pilot.
- Check for standing water: Check if there is any standing water or debris in the pilot light assembly. If there is, you may need to drain the water heater and clean the assembly.
Relighting the Pilot Light
If you determine that the pilot light is out, you can relight it by following these steps:
- Reset the pilot light control valve: Locate the pilot light control valve and flip the valve to the "on" position.
- Light the pilot: Hold a lit match or lighter to the pilot light opening until the pilot lights. You may need to hold the flame in place for a few seconds for the pilot to light.
- Verify the pilot is lit: Check that the pilot is lit by looking for the flame. If the flame goes out, you may need to repeat the process a few times until it stays lit.
- Adjust the pilot flame: If the pilot flame is too high or too low, adjust the flame as needed to ensure proper burning.
Preventive Measures
To avoid the pilot light going out in the future, you can take the following measures:
• Regularly maintain your water heater: Clean the pilot light assembly and other parts of the water heater regularly to ensure proper function.
• Monitor water heater performance: Check your water heater regularly for signs of malfunction or failure.
• Check and replace worn-out parts: Replace worn-out parts, such as the thermocouple or pilot light igniter, to ensure proper function.
Table: Pilot Light Maintenance and Repair
| Part | Function | Signs of Failure | Repair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pilot Light Assembly | Provides a flame for ignition | Clicking, buzzing, or no pilot flame | Clean or replace the assembly |
| Thermocouple | Converts temperature changes to electrical signals | Water heater won’t start | Replace the thermocouple |
| Pilot Light Igniter | Provides electrical ignition | Won’t stay lit, sparking | Clean or replace the igniter |
| Shut-Off Valve | Closes gas supply to water heater | No gas supply | Replace the shut-off valve |
By following these steps and taking preventative measures, you can identify and resolve pilot light issues and ensure your water heater functions properly. Remember to always turn off the gas supply and allow the gas to clear before attempting to relight the pilot.
