Why Does My Water Heater Pilot Keep Going Out?
If you’ve noticed that your water heater’s pilot light keeps going out, you’re not alone. This is a common issue that many homeowners face, and it’s often caused by a combination of factors. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why your water heater pilot might be constantly going out and provide you with some tips on how to troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem.
Why Does My Water Heater Pilot Keep Going Out?
Before we dive into the reasons, let’s first understand what a water heater pilot is and its purpose. The pilot is a small flame that lights the main burner, which heats the water in your tank. The pilot is usually located at the bottom of the water heater and is controlled by a thermostat.
Common Reasons for a Pilot Light Going Out
Here are some of the most common reasons why your water heater pilot might be constantly going out:
• Dirty or Clogged Pilot Assembly: Over time, the pilot assembly can become dirty or clogged with debris, which can prevent the pilot from staying lit. Check for any blockages or dirt buildup and clean out the pilot assembly if necessary.
• Incorrect Thermostat Setting: If the thermostat is set too low, the pilot may not be able to stay lit. Check the thermostat setting and adjust it if necessary.
• Faulty Thermocouple: The thermocouple is a sensor that detects the pilot flame and sends an electrical signal to the thermostat to keep the pilot lit. Check the thermocouple for any signs of damage or malfunction.
• Gas Leaks: A gas leak can cause the pilot to go out. Check for any signs of a gas leak, such as a hissing sound or a strong gas odor.
• Faulty Gas Valve: The gas valve is responsible for supplying gas to the pilot. Check the gas valve for any signs of damage or malfunction.
• Water Heater Not Level: If the water heater is not level, it can cause the pilot to go out. Check if the water heater is level and adjust it if necessary.
• Sediment Buildup: Sediment buildup in the water heater tank can cause the pilot to go out. Check for any sediment buildup and consider flushing the tank if necessary.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix the Problem
Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix the problem:
• Check the Pilot Assembly: Inspect the pilot assembly for any blockages or dirt buildup. Clean out any debris or dirt you find.
• Check the Thermocouple: Check the thermocouple for any signs of damage or malfunction. If it’s damaged, you may need to replace it.
• Check the Gas Valve: Check the gas valve for any signs of damage or malfunction. If it’s faulty, you may need to replace it.
• Check for Gas Leaks: Check for any signs of a gas leak, such as a hissing sound or a strong gas odor. If you detect a leak, turn off the gas supply and contact a professional.
• Flush the Water Heater Tank: If you suspect sediment buildup is causing the problem, consider flushing the tank. This can help remove any debris or sediment that may be causing the issue.
Preventative Measures
To prevent your water heater pilot from going out, here are some preventative measures you can take:
• Regularly Clean the Pilot Assembly: Clean out the pilot assembly regularly to prevent dirt and debris buildup.
• Check the Thermocouple: Regularly check the thermocouple for any signs of damage or malfunction.
• Check the Gas Valve: Regularly check the gas valve for any signs of damage or malfunction.
• Level the Water Heater: Make sure the water heater is level to prevent any issues with the pilot.
• Maintain the Water Heater Tank: Regularly flush the water heater tank to prevent sediment buildup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several reasons why your water heater pilot might be constantly going out. By understanding the common causes of this issue and taking preventative measures, you can potentially fix the problem and keep your water heater running smoothly. Remember to regularly check the pilot assembly, thermocouple, and gas valve, and to level the water heater and maintain the tank to prevent issues. If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting and fixing the problem yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber.
