If your water heater isn’t heating up, the pilot light may have burned out. Regardless of the model, lighting your water heater is straightforward. When the pilot light on a water heater goes out, it usually implies that a natural shift in gas pressure extinguished the flame. The most obvious symptom that a pilot light is out is that the water will not heat up. It is critical to understand how to light the pilot light and how long to hold the pilot light to restart the flame of a gas water heater as soon as feasible. To restart the heater, press and hold the button for around 30 seconds. Let’s go over how to relight the heater in detail.
Is It Possible For Me To Relight The Pilot Light Myself?
You should be able to light the pilot light on your own in most cases. If you suspect a gas leak in your home, do not attempt to light it since propane and natural gas are highly combustible and can start a fire – or even explode – when exposed to an open flame or electric spark. If you smell gas (a sulfurous odor akin to rotten eggs) or hear a hissing noise coming from a gas line, get out of the house immediately. Contact your local fire department or gas supplier for assistance.
Also, if you have any safety concerns or are having trouble lighting the pilot yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.
Also, Read: Is Gas Water Heater Exhaust Dangerous?
How to Light a Gas Water Heater Automatically?
The first step is to cut off the gas by locating the Pilot knob. Turn the knob past the Pilot position and into the Off position. Allow any gas that has been built into the system to dissipate for five minutes.
It is now time to start the lighting process. Turn the water heater dial to Low, and the Pilot dial to Pilot. Turn the On/Off dial downward while holding down the igniter button. After you remove the igniter button, keep pressing the Pilot dial downward for around 30 seconds.
If you remove the small door beneath the ignition box, a small window will appear through which you can see if there is a flame. Close the door, turn the dial from Pilot to On, and change the water temperature dial from Low to the appropriate setting if it is illuminated. If it is not illuminated, you must restart right away to prevent gas accumulation.
How to Light a Gas Water Heater Manually?
To light this type of water heater, use a long lighter. Otherwise, it won’t be easy to locate the pilot.
To begin, remove the plate beneath the dial box on the side of the water heater. An inner plate may also need to be shifted to the side. Then, look for a pipe (or pipes) leading to a burner.
Turn the On/Off/Pilot box knob past Pilot to the Off position. Allow five minutes for any residual gas to dissipate. Set the temperature of the water to Low and the dial to Pilot. Turn the On/Off/Pilot dial downward with one hand while igniting the grill lighter with the other.
Quickly place the lighter over the end of the pipe near the burner. The flame should quickly ignite. Continue to depress the Pilot dial for about 30 seconds before turning it from Pilot to On. Finally, replace the plates over the Burner hole and set the water temperature dial to your liking.
Conclusion
Finally, lighting the pilot light on a gas water heater is a simple procedure when done correctly and carefully. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific water heater model, as they may differ somewhat. Turn off the gas supply and take all necessary safety precautions before undertaking any maintenance or repairs on a gas device. Assume you have any concerns or questions concerning the process. In that scenario, you should seek the assistance of a skilled professional to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your gas water heater. Regular maintenance and appropriate operation of your water heater are critical for providing a consistent supply of hot water as well as the safety of your house.
FAQ
After lighting the pilot light, how long can I have hot water?
A basic gas heater heats a full tank of water in 30 to 40 minutes. The capacity determines the actual time. For example, warming up an electric heater takes at least an hour and can take up to 80 minutes.
Is it safe to switch off the pilot light on the water heater?
The gas will still be discharged if the pilot flame goes out. The gas may collect in your home over time and represent a health danger. If the thermocouple fails, however, the safety valve will close even if the flame remains lit. Click the Schedule Service button to return.
What should you do after you’ve lit the pilot?
Hold down the pilot button for 15 to 30 seconds after the pilot lights to warm up the thermocouple and keep the flame burning. Different systems may recommend holding down the button at somewhat different times.
How can I tell if the water heater’s pilot light is on?
On most water heaters, the pilot light is located at the bottom of the appliance, right beneath the gas control valve. Examine the burner chamber by opening the access door or panel. The pilot light tube should be visible. If you see a continuous blue flame, your pilot light is working.
