How to Re-Light a Home Water Heater Pilot Light

When you walk into the shower, you count on the water to get nice and hot fast. If an ice-cold rain greets you instead, you know something’s wrong. The typical root cause behind this unpleasant, cold surprise is a water heater pilot light that’s gone out.

Don’t worry—relighting the pilot doesn’t require an engineering degree. Follow the quick, step-by-step process from the pros at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing laid out below, and you’ll soon be back to taking advantage of those hot showers.

Steps to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light

First things first, read the user’s manual for your water heater model. Instructions vary, and you should get everything you need in the manual. If you can’t find the paper copy that came with the water heater, look up the model number online to pull up a digital version. Still, the following actions should apply for most gas water heaters:

1. Locate the gas shut-off valve, which you’ll usually find clearly marked on the lower front part of your water heater. Move this knob to the “Off” position and wait for five to 10 minutes to let any remaining gas to dissipate.
2. Open the pilot light access cover or door, which is commonly located under the gas valve. Sometimes, there isn’t a door; instead, you might see the pilot light burner if you look in a small opening.
3. Find a flashlight or headlamp. After that, peer into the pilot light access and look for two small gas tubes leading to the burner. Keep an eye on this area as you continue with lighting the water heater pilot.
4. Switch the gas knob to “Pilot.” This action lets the gas flow, prepping the pilot light for ignition. Some units have a designated red button for pilot mode, which you should press and hold.
5. Light the pilot light while still holding down the gas knob or button. Your home’s water heater may have an igniter button, frequently red or black. If it doesn’t, you’ll need a long lighter to light the pilot by hand.
6. Push down the gas knob or button for about 30 to 60 seconds after the flame sparks. Ensure the flame stays lit. 
7. Rotate the gas knob to “On.” You should hear a whump or whoosh sound as the main burner fires up and your water heater sparks back to life.
8. Replace the access cover or door. Give your water heater approximately 20 to 60 minutes to warm the water, and you’ll be able to enjoy that hot shower!

What if {the Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit?

Needing to relight the pilot from time to time is usually not a major cause for concern. However, there could be a more severe underlying issue if the water heater pilot light won’t stay lit. Some common factors that cause this problem are:

• Damaged thermocouple: The thermocouple is an automatic safety shut-off, preventing gas flow when the pilot light isn’t on. If this feature is misaligned, dirty or damaged, you may face frequent pilot light challenges. Wiggle the thermocouple just a tiny bit and try lighting the pilot a second time. If that doesn’t get the job done, you could possibly need to clean it. And if that proves fruitless, it could be necessary to replace the thermocouple, a simple task for a professional technician.
• Dirty pilot opening: If your pilot light has a yellow flame, it’s likely due to a dirty pilot opening. This can hinder the thermocouple’s performance, causing pilot light instability.
• Weak or faulty gas regulator: Issues with this component could lead to an inadequate gas supply needed to maintain the pilot light. If multiple gas appliances in your residence have similar issues, check the regulator.
• Gusty conditions: Water heaters often share a utility closet with the furnace, which requires fresh air to function properly. Strong drafts from this air intake can extinguish your pilot light.

So, You Re-Lit Your Pilot Light? Let Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Keep it That Way!

If you’re still having trouble with your water heater pilot light in Canada, contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, effective solutions to all your comfort woes. Everything we do is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if you’re not pleased with our work, we’ll work to make it right. We are leaders in innovation and customer support, with deep community involvement that shows our commitment to your comfort. Call 866-397-3787 today to reach the professional staff at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. Let us make a meaningful difference in your life, one hot shower at a time.