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Why does the water heater pilot go out?

Why Does the Water Heater Pilot Go Out?

The water heater pilot light is an essential component of a water heater’s operation. It serves as a safety device that ignites the main burner, which heats the water in the tank. When the pilot light goes out, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. In this article, we will explore the common reasons why the water heater pilot light goes out and what you can do to troubleshoot and prevent this issue.

Why Does the Water Heater Pilot Go Out?

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There are several reasons why the water heater pilot light may go out. Here are some of the most common causes:

  • Dirty or corroded pilot orifice: The pilot orifice is a small hole in the pilot assembly that regulates the flow of gas to the pilot light. Over time, the orifice can become clogged with dirt, debris, or corrosion, which can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
  • Faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple is a temperature-sensitive device that senses the pilot light’s temperature and allows gas to flow to the pilot light when it is lit. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may not be able to detect the pilot light’s temperature, causing the pilot light to go out.
  • Malfunctioning gas valve: The gas valve is responsible for regulating the flow of gas to the water heater. If the valve is faulty, it may not be able to provide a steady supply of gas to the pilot light, causing it to go out.
  • Incorrect gas pressure: If the gas pressure in your home is too high or too low, it can affect the operation of the water heater and cause the pilot light to go out.
  • Problems with the ignition source: The ignition source, such as the igniter or spark generator, may not be functioning properly, causing the pilot light to go out.
  • Water heater not vented properly: If the water heater is not properly vented, it can cause the pilot light to go out due to lack of oxygen.

Troubleshooting the Pilot Light Problem

If your water heater pilot light has gone out, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:

  • Check the pilot orifice: Use a toothpick or a small brush to clean out any debris or corrosion from the pilot orifice.
  • Inspect the thermocouple: Check the thermocouple for any signs of damage or corrosion. If it is damaged, you may need to replace it.
  • Check the gas valve: Make sure the gas valve is fully open and functioning properly.
  • Check the gas pressure: Check the gas pressure in your home to ensure it is within the recommended range.
  • Replace the ignition source: If the ignition source is faulty, you may need to replace it.
  • Check the water heater’s ventilation: Make sure the water heater is properly vented and that there are no obstructions in the ventilation system.

Preventing Pilot Light Problems

There are several steps you can take to prevent pilot light problems:

  • Regular maintenance: Regularly inspect and clean the pilot orifice and thermocouple to prevent corrosion and debris buildup.
  • Proper installation: Ensure that the water heater is installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and that the gas valve is properly set.
  • Proper ventilation: Ensure that the water heater is properly vented to prevent lack of oxygen from causing the pilot light to go out.
  • Monitor gas pressure: Regularly check the gas pressure in your home to ensure it is within the recommended range.

Common Signs of a Faulty Water Heater Pilot Light

If your water heater pilot light is faulty, you may notice the following signs:

SignDescription
No hot waterIf the pilot light is out, the water heater will not be able to heat the water, resulting in no hot water.
Pilot light keeps going outIf the pilot light is faulty, it may keep going out due to a lack of oxygen or a faulty thermocouple.
Strange noisesA faulty pilot light can cause strange noises, such as hissing or banging, to come from the water heater.
Water heater is not functioning properlyA faulty pilot light can cause the water heater to malfunction or not function at all.

Conclusion

The water heater pilot light is an essential component of a water heater’s operation. If it goes out, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient experience. By understanding the common causes of pilot light problems and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can quickly resolve the issue and get back to enjoying hot water in your home. Remember to regularly maintain your water heater and monitor the pilot light to prevent problems from arising in the first place.

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