Has your hot water gone out, and you’re now suddenly left having to endure a cold-water stream in the shower? If so, the first thing you should do is check your water heater. It’s possible the pilot light went out. If this is the case for you and you’re unfamiliar with relighting your water heater’s pilot light, we got you! Fortunately, your Centerville Plumbing & Drain team has pieced together a simple guide to walk you through the process. With our guide, you’ll have your hot, relaxing showers and warm running water back again in no time!
WHAT TOOLS DO YOU NEED?
- A flashlight
- A long-reaching lighter or match
WILL YOU NEED TO TURN OFF THE GAS?
It’s always important to turn the gas valve off when working with gas-powered equipment. Naturally, this is for safety reasons. Additionally, bear in mind that after you power the gas supply down, it’s important to let a minimum of five minutes pass by so that the gas that built up previously has enough time to disperse before you relight your water heater’s pilot light. This step is crucial and should never be skipped over. Otherwise, it could result in severe damage to your home and risk harm to you and your family.
WHERE CAN YOU FIND THE PILOT LIGHT LOCATED?
If you’re looking for your pilot light, you can typically find the pilot light placed below the gas valve. However, in some models, there may be a small panel or metal faceplate covering the pilot light opening. This is known as the burner cover, which protects the pilot light area. So, if your water heater does have one, make sure that it is carefully removed and set it aside in the meantime. Bear in mind, this step may require you to use a flashlight so that you can see better and obtain access to the area.
WHAT ARE THE STEPS TO RELIGHTING YOUR GAS WATER HEATER?
- The first step is to turn the switch on the pilot light assembly to “pilot.” This jumpstarts the relighting process by providing a temporary amount of gas for the pilot flame to be relit.
- Now press and hold down the “reset” button while igniting your lighter or match at the same time in your other available hand. Keep holding down the “reset” switch, and slowly bring the ignited lighter closer to the pilot light opening. Just remember to approach with caution. When the lighter is close enough, the pilot flame should spark and continue to remain aglow. You can now release the “reset” switch.
- Watch the flame for a while so as to ensure it remains lit. The flame should have a blue tint burning steadily.
- When the pilot light is back on and functioning fine, you can turn the gas back on.
- Lastly, return the pilot light burner cover after you’re finished.
Please, feel free to give us a call if you’re still dealing with your water heater’s pilot light after going through this step-by-step guide. There is potential if your pilot light is not staying lit that, there is an underlying issue with a component. We would be happy to help figure out what’s going on!
Call Centerville Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 240-0169, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
