Water Heater Pilot Lights: The Little Flame That Could!

One of the most essential yet overlooked household appliances is the water heater. From showering to washing dishes, and laundry, hot water is required for many daily activities and chores. And the MVP of the hot water system is the water heater pilot light! While generally reliable, pilot lights can sometimes go out, which can disrupt your hot water supply. To help understand the importance of the pilot light, the following explores common issues, along with how to troubleshoot common problems to keep your water heater running smoothly.

What is a Water Heater Pilot Light?

At the core of many gas water heaters is the pilot light, a small flame that ignites the main burner and initiates the heating process. While some newer models use an electronic ignition (and more common with furnaces), many water heaters still rely on the tried-and-true always-on flame. However, without a lit (or operating) pilot light, your water heater won't be able to heat the water. It's that simple. So, if you suddenly find yourself with lukewarm or cold water, it's time to check that flame!

What are Common Issues with Water Heater Pilot Lights?

The most notable issue with pilot lights is that they go out (or go out frequently). Unfortunately, if the pilot light goes out, gas could still be flowing. Fortunately, if the pilot light flame goes out, then the water heater thermocouple—a safety device—will shut off the gas to prevent leaks. For homeowners, this is a reassurance that this common issue doesn't create additional safety concerns.

Additionally, there are some other common issues, that may signal it is time to call your local water heater repair services.

• Weak or Yellow Pilot Light Flame: The pilot flame should be steady and blue, so if it appears weak or yellow, the flame might not heat the thermocouple enough to keep the gas flowing. This issue frequently indicates a dirty pilot tube, which restricts gas flow and weakens the flame, or a gas pressure issue.
  
• Clogged or Dirty Pilot Tube: Over time, the pilot tube can accumulate dust, dirt, and soot, blocking gas flow to the pilot light. As a result, a potential clog can result in a weak flame or cause the pilot to go out. Fortunately, simply cleaning or replacing the pilot tube can often resolve a clogged or dirty pilot tube.
  
• Thermocouple Malfunction: The thermocouple is a crucial safety feature, but if it's bent, damaged, or misaligned, it may not detect the pilot light's flame correctly. If this occurs, then the thermocouple can shut off the gas supply even when the pilot is lit.
  
• Gas Supply Problems: Issues with the gas supply, such as low gas pressure or a shut-off valve accidentally turned off, can affect the pilot light. If your gas supply is interrupted, the pilot light won't stay lit or may not ignite at all.

Addressing these common pilot light issues can often restore your water heater's function and many of the problems have simple solutions. However, it's important to seek professional assistance if the problem persists, as gas appliances require careful handling.

How to Keep Your Pilot Light in Tip-Top Shape

While there are some common issues with all appliances, there are some simple preventative maintenance and proactive steps to maintain your hot water heater pilot light.

• Check Regularly: A strong, blue flame means everything's A-OK. If it's flickering or yellow, you might have a problem with the gas or air mixture.
• Keep It Clean: Dust and debris can mess with the flame, so make sure the area around the pilot light is free of clutter and dirt.
• Annual Tune-Up: Have a pro check the whole system once a year. They'll clean the pilot assembly, adjust gas pressure, and make sure everything's in top shape. Also flushing the water heater is a good preventive measure, this will go a long way in extending the life of your tank.
• Know How to Relight It: Pilot light out? No problem. A little know-how goes a long way!

How to Relight a Water Heater Pilot Light

If the flame goes out, don't stress. Here's how to get things heated up again:

1. Turn Off the Gas: Switch off the gas supply and wait a few minutes for any lingering gas to clear.
2. Find the Pilot Assembly: This is usually located near the bottom of the water heater where the gas line connects.
3. Turn the Valve to "Pilot": Once you're ready, turn the gas valve to the "pilot" position.
4. Ignite: Push down on the ignitor button while holding down the reset or pilot button for about 30-60 seconds.
5. Keep It Going: Slowly release the button. If the flame stays lit, great! Turn the gas valve to "on," and you're back in business.

Importantly, most water heaters include clear instructions on relighting the pilot on the tank. If these general steps are not working, then consult the owner's manual because some water heaters may vary in the procedures for lighting the pilot.

How to Know When Professional Assistance is Needed

If your pilot light refuses to stay lit, or if you're smelling gas (yikes!), it's time to bring in a professional. It could be a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot orifice, or an issue with the gas supply—better safe than sorry!

Hot Water Heater Pilot Light FAQs

• How often should I check my pilot light? At least once a year, or whenever you have water temperature issues.
• Why does the flame keep going out? It could be a draft, dirty pilot tip, or a faulty thermocouple. A technician can pinpoint the problem.
• Can I relight it myself? Yes, just follow the instructions carefully. If you're unsure, it's always safer to call a professional.
• What color should the pilot light be? Blue! A steady, blue flame is ideal. Yellow or flickering could mean it's time for a check-up.

As a family-owned and operated business, Snappy Services understands the importance of keeping your home running. Having hot water issues certainly adds to the morning chaos, so rest assured our team is here to help. For those in the greater Marietta and Atlanta area, if you are having issues with your pilot light or hot water or any part of your plumbing or home heating system, then contact us today. From emergency services to annual maintenance plans, our team of local and qualified technicians know the struggle and have the experience to solve your plumbing, heating, cooling or electrical problems. You can rest assured that when you call our expert team, you'll receive fast, high-quality service. And we do it all with a smile!

Contact us today!