If the pilot light on your gas water heater goes out, you’ll quickly be left without a supply of hot water. Luckily, this type of problem is easy enough for most homeowners to fix on their own.
We’ve put together this guide to outline the steps you’ll need to take to safely relight the pilot light on your water heater.
How to Light a Water Heater
- Look for your tank’s instruction manual: While you can relight the pilot light without one, the manual will give you the most accurate steps for your particular model.
- Open the pilot light cover: The pilot light cover is usually located underneath the gas control valve. Simply lift or remove the cover to expose the pilot light. Keep in mind that some water heaters have an open gap instead of a cover.
- Hold down the “Pilot” button: Turn the gas control knob to “Pilot” and then hold the ignition button down to start the flow of gas. This ignition button is sometimes red.
- Relight the flame: With the “Pilot” button pushed down, use a long-stemmed lighter to reignite the flame on the pilot.
- Continue to press and hold down the pilot button: Continue holding the pilot button down for 60 seconds to ensure the flame stays lit.
- Switch the gas knob to “ON”: After 60 seconds, release the pilot button and turn the knob back to “ON.”
- Put the cover back on: If your pilot light has a cover, return it to its original position.
If the pilot light doesn’t stay lit, you may have a problem with your water heater. Likely, your thermocouple is dirty or in need of repair. If this is the case, turn off your water heater and call a professional water heater technician for assistance.
Schedule Water Heater Maintenance in Bend
If your water heater needs service, count on the HVAC experts at Ponderosa Heating & Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical. We’re the most trusted name in water heaters in Bend, OR and the surrounding communities.
Call us today at 541-549-1605 to schedule water heater service.
