**Experiencing an unexpected cold shower or lukewarm water when you expect a comforting stream of hot water? If you live in a home with a gas water heater and notice cold water coming from your hot water faucet, there’s a good chance your pilot light has gone out.** This common household issue can be frustrating, but the good news is that in most cases, you can relight a pilot without calling in a professional, and you’ll have hot water again in a few hours’ time. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of how to light a water heater pilot light safely and effectively, ensuring you restore your home's hot water supply with confidence. Your water heater provides you with a reliable water supply for cleaning and showering, making it an indispensable appliance in any home. While there's a wide variety of water heaters on the market, many still use gas as the primary power source. For a gas water heater to work, it needs a pilot light to ignite the gas and heat your water. If your pilot flame went out on your gas water heater, relight it first before you start replacing parts. Overall, the process is very easy, but it requires careful attention to detail and, most importantly, adherence to safety protocols.
Table of Contents
- Why Your Hot Water Heater Might Need Relighting
- Understanding Your Water Heater: Manual vs. Electronic Ignition
- Essential Safety Precautions Before You Begin
- Step-by-Step Guide: How to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light (Manual Ignition)
- Lighting a Modern Water Heater with Electronic Ignition
- Specific Instructions: How to Light a Rheem Hot Water Heater Pilot Light
- When to Call a Professional: Troubleshooting Beyond the Pilot Light
- Maintaining Your Water Heater for Consistent Hot Water
Why Your Hot Water Heater Might Need Relighting
Are you running out of hot water or is your hot water only lukewarm? The most common problem, which can be easily fixed, is your pilot light went out. If you have a natural or propane gas water heater, chances are the pilot has gone out. But why does this tiny flame, essential for your hot water supply, suddenly extinguish? Several factors can cause a pilot light to go out:- Drafts: In some older natural gas appliances, the pilot light can go out due to drafts. A strong gust of wind or even an open window nearby can sometimes be enough to blow out the delicate flame.
- Condensation: Moisture or condensation can sometimes interfere with the pilot light, causing it to extinguish.
- Mechanical Failures: Over time, components within your water heater can wear out. A faulty thermocouple, which is a safety device that senses the pilot light's presence, is a common culprit. If the thermocouple isn't sensing the flame, it will shut off the gas supply to the pilot, causing it to go out.
- Gas Supply Issues: A temporary interruption in your home's gas supply, perhaps due to maintenance work in your area or a tripped gas valve, can also lead to the pilot light extinguishing.
- Sediment Buildup: While less common for pilot lights directly, excessive sediment buildup in the tank can sometimes affect the overall operation and efficiency, indirectly contributing to issues.
What Exactly is a Pilot Light?
The pilot light on your water heater is the little blue flame used to light the gas streaming to your heater from the gas pipes coming from outside your home. It’s a small, continuous flame that stands ready to ignite the main burner whenever the thermostat calls for hot water. Without a pilot light, the water heater would need to rely on an external ignition source, such as an electric spark, to ignite the gas burner each time the water needs to be heated. This would be less efficient and could lead to longer wait times for hot water. While some people believe that a water heater turns on when the pilot light ignites, traditional pilot lights are lit 24/7. Their constant presence ensures that the main burner can be ignited instantly when needed, providing you with a seamless supply of hot water. This small, steady flame is crucial for the efficient operation of many gas-powered appliances, including your water heater.Understanding Your Water Heater: Manual vs. Electronic Ignition
Before you attempt to relight your water heater, it's crucial to understand the type of ignition system it uses. The age of your gas water heater determines how you relight the pilot. This distinction is vital for both safety and effectiveness.Identifying Your Water Heater Type
There are two primary types of gas water heater ignition systems: 1. Manual Pilot Light Ignition: These are typically found in older models. If you have a water heater with a removable access panel at the base, you likely have a manual ignition system. With these models, you'll need to manually light the pilot flame, often using a long lighter or the water heater's built-in piezo ignitor. Heaters with removable panels are manually lit. 2. Electronic Ignition (Automatic): Gas water heaters made within the past eight years don’t require manual lighting. Instead, these water heaters contain an electric spark generator, much like a gas grill. Modern water heaters often have a small viewing panel for the pilot light instead of a removable panel. You likely have an electronic igniter if you have a viewing window. If you have a water heater with a pilot light ignition button, you simply press the button to light the pilot light. Knowing which type you have will dictate the steps you need to follow. Always refer to your water heater's specific instructions, usually found on a label on the unit itself, as instructions vary from make and model. Make sure that you read your water heater's manual thoroughly.Essential Safety Precautions Before You Begin
Working with gas appliances requires extreme caution. Your safety is paramount. Before you even think about how to light a water heater, ensure you follow these critical safety precautions: 1. Turn Off Gas Supply: The first and most crucial step is turning off the gas supply to the water heater. Locate the gas shut-off valve, usually a red or yellow handle on the gas line leading to the water heater, and turn it perpendicular to the pipe. This will stop the flow of gas. 2. Ventilate the Area: If you suspect a gas leak or smell gas, do NOT attempt to light the pilot. Open windows and doors to ventilate the area immediately. Leave the premises and call your gas company or a qualified professional from a safe distance. Gas is highly flammable and can be dangerous. 3. Wait for Gas to Dissipate: After turning off the gas supply, wait at least 5-10 minutes for any residual gas in the lines to dissipate. This prevents a sudden ignition or flash. 4. Locate Instructions: It's important to follow the instructions on your water heater. Every water heater model has specific instructions, usually on a label near the bottom of the unit. These instructions are tailored to your specific model and supersede any general advice. 5. Have a Flashlight Ready: The pilot light area can be dark. A flashlight will help you see clearly without introducing a flame prematurely. 6. Clear the Area: Ensure there are no flammable materials, rags, or debris near the water heater. 7. Never Force Anything: If a knob or panel is stuck, do not force it. This could damage the unit or create a dangerous situation. 8. Know When to Call a Professional: If you're uncomfortable at any point, smell gas, or repeatedly fail to light the pilot, stop and call a certified HVAC technician or plumber. Lighting the pilot on a hot water tank may seem simple to some, but as a home service provider for over 15 years, I can tell you that I've made more than a few dollars performing this task for people. It's better to be safe than sorry.Step-by-Step Guide: How to Light a Water Heater Pilot Light (Manual Ignition)
If you have an older appliance, you should know how to relight a pilot light. This process generally applies to water heaters with a manual ignition system, where you need to physically light the pilot flame.Locating the Pilot Light and Controls
1. Locate the Access Panel: To locate your water heater pilot light, you will probably have to remove a small access panel at the base of your water heater. This panel is usually held in place by screws or clips. Carefully remove it to expose the burner assembly and pilot light. 2. Identify the Control Knob: Look for the main gas control knob on the front of the unit. This knob typically has three settings: "ON," "OFF," and "PILOT." 3. Find the Pilot Tube and Igniter (if present): The pilot tube is a small copper or aluminum tube leading to the pilot burner, where the small flame should be. Some older models might have a separate igniter button or a small opening where you insert a long lighter. Everything you need is already part of the water heater itself.The Relighting Process
Once you've completed the safety checks and located the necessary components, follow these steps to relight your water heater: 1. Turn Off the Gas: As mentioned in safety, ensure the main gas supply valve to the water heater is OFF. Then, turn the water heater's gas control knob to the "OFF" position. You'll want to turn the knob past "PILOT" to the "OFF" position. Wait at least 5-10 minutes for any gas to clear out of the system. 2. Turn to "PILOT" Setting: After the waiting period, rotate the gas control knob to the "PILOT" setting. 3. Press and Hold the Pilot Button: On most manual models, there's a red or black button that you need to press and hold down. This button allows a small amount of gas to flow to the pilot light. You'll usually need to hold it down for about 30-60 seconds to purge air from the line and allow gas to reach the pilot. 4. Light the Pilot: While still holding down the pilot button: * If your water heater has a built-in igniter: Press the igniter button repeatedly until you see the pilot light ignite. You should hear a clicking sound. * If your water heater requires a manual lighter: Use a long BBQ lighter or a long match to carefully ignite the pilot flame through the access opening. Be careful not to burn yourself. 5. Observe the Flame: Once the pilot light ignites, continue to hold the pilot button down for another 30-60 seconds. This allows the thermocouple (the safety sensor) to heat up and register the flame. You should see a small, steady blue flame. If the flame is yellow or flickering, it might indicate an issue that needs professional attention. 6. Release the Pilot Button: Slowly release the pilot button. The pilot flame should remain lit. If it goes out, repeat steps 3-5. If it repeatedly goes out, there might be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply, and you should call a professional. 7. Turn to "ON" Setting: Once the pilot light is stable and burning steadily, turn the gas control knob from "PILOT" to the "ON" position. You should hear the main burner ignite with a low roar, and you'll see a larger flame. 8. Replace Access Panel: Carefully reattach the access panel. 9. Restore Gas Supply: Turn the main gas supply valve back to the "ON" position (parallel to the pipe). Your water heater should now begin heating water. It might take a few hours for the tank to heat up fully, depending on its size and how cold the water was. In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through the steps of relighting the pilot on your water heater by the standard means, including an example of it working correctly.Lighting a Modern Water Heater with Electronic Ignition
For gas water heaters made within the past eight years, the process of how to light a water heater is typically much simpler due to electronic ignition systems. These don't require manual lighting with a match or lighter. 1. Locate the Viewing Window: Modern water heaters have a small viewing panel for the pilot light instead of a removable panel. 2. Identify the Control Knob: Similar to manual models, locate the gas control knob with "ON," "OFF," and "PILOT" settings. 3. Turn Off Gas and Wait: Turn the gas control knob to "OFF" and wait 5-10 minutes for any gas to dissipate. 4. Turn to "PILOT" Setting: Rotate the gas control knob to the "PILOT" setting. 5. Press and Hold the Pilot Button: Press and hold the pilot button (often labeled "Push to Light" or similar). 6. Press the Igniter Button: While holding the pilot button, repeatedly press the electronic igniter button (it will make a clicking sound) until you see the pilot light ignite through the viewing window. Keep holding the pilot button for another 30-60 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up. 7. Release and Turn to "ON": Release the pilot button. If the pilot stays lit, turn the gas control knob to "ON." The main burner should ignite. 8. Restore Main Gas Supply: Ensure the main gas supply valve to the water heater is open. This method is designed to be user-friendly and significantly reduces the risk associated with manual lighting.Specific Instructions: How to Light a Rheem Hot Water Heater Pilot Light
Many homeowners specifically ask how to light a Rheem hot water heater pilot light, as Rheem is a very popular brand. On a modern Rheem gas water heater, it is very easy to light the pilot light. A Rheem water heater pilot light needs to be lit manually using the piezo ignitor striker built into the water heater. Here’s how to light the pilot light on a Rheem gas water heater: 1. Safety First: Ensure the main gas supply to the water heater is off, and wait 5-10 minutes. 2. Locate the Control Dial: Find the gas control dial at the bottom of your Rheem water heater. It will have settings for "OFF," "PILOT," and temperature settings (e.g., "HOT," "A," "B," "C," "VACATION"). 3. Rotate to "OFF": Rotate the gas knob on your Rheem water heater clockwise until it is in the "OFF" position. 4. Rotate to "PILOT": After waiting, rotate the knob to the "PILOT" position. 5. Press and Hold Pilot Button: Press and hold the red or black "PILOT" button (sometimes labeled "PUSH") located on the control valve. 6. Press Igniter: While still holding the pilot button, repeatedly press the igniter button (usually a red or black button separate from the pilot button) until you see the pilot flame ignite through the small viewing window. You'll hear a clicking sound. 7. Continue Holding: Keep holding the pilot button down for at least 60 seconds after the pilot light ignites. This allows the thermocouple to properly heat up and hold the pilot flame. 8. Release and Check: Slowly release the pilot button. The pilot flame should remain lit. If it goes out, repeat the process. 9. Turn to "ON": Once the pilot is stable, turn the gas control dial to your desired temperature setting (e.g., "HOT" or "A"). The main burner should ignite. 10. Restore Gas Supply: Ensure the main gas supply valve to the water heater is fully open. Rheem designs its systems for user-friendliness, making the relighting process straightforward for most homeowners.When to Call a Professional: Troubleshooting Beyond the Pilot Light
While learning how to light a water heater pilot light can save you a service call, there are situations where professional help is necessary. If your pilot light repeatedly goes out, or if you encounter any of the following, it's time to call a certified plumber or HVAC technician: * Gas Smell: If you smell gas at any point, even faintly, do not attempt to light the pilot. Evacuate and call your gas company immediately. * Pilot Won't Stay Lit: If the pilot light ignites but goes out immediately after you release the pilot button, it's a strong indication of a faulty thermocouple. This is a safety device that senses the pilot flame; if it's not working, it won't allow gas to flow to the pilot. While you can get replacement parts on Amazon if you need them, replacing a thermocouple can be tricky and is often best left to a professional. * No Pilot Flame at All: If no gas seems to be flowing to the pilot, even after holding the pilot button, there might be a blockage in the pilot tube or a problem with the gas control valve itself. * Main Burner Won't Ignite: If the pilot light stays lit, but the main burner doesn't ignite when you turn the knob to "ON," the thermostat might be faulty, or there could be an issue with the main burner assembly. * Water Heater Age: If your water heater is very old (over 10-12 years), frequent pilot light issues might be a sign that the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and needs replacement rather than just repair. * Unusual Noises or Leaks: Any strange noises (banging, rumbling) or visible leaks from your water heater warrant immediate professional attention. * Lack of Comfort: If you're simply uncomfortable performing the steps, or if you're unsure about any part of the process, it's always safer to defer to a professional. They have the expertise and specialized tools to diagnose and fix the problem safely. Remember, this guide reviews how to light a pilot light on water heaters, but if you're dealing with issues beyond a simple relight, don't hesitate to seek expert help.Maintaining Your Water Heater for Consistent Hot Water
Once you've successfully learned how to light a water heater and restored your hot water supply, consider some basic maintenance tips to prevent future issues and extend the life of your unit: * Annual Flushing: Sediment can build up at the bottom of your water heater tank, reducing efficiency and potentially causing issues. Flushing your tank annually helps remove this sediment. * Check the Anode Rod: The anode rod attracts corrosive elements in the water, protecting the tank. It should be inspected and replaced every 3-5 years. * Test the T&P Valve: The temperature and pressure relief (T&P) valve is a crucial safety device that prevents excessive pressure buildup. Test it annually by lifting the lever to ensure water flows out. * Insulate Pipes: Insulating the first few feet of hot and cold water pipes connected to the water heater can improve efficiency. * Regular Inspections: Periodically check for any leaks, rust, or unusual noises. Early detection of problems can prevent costly repairs down the line. By understanding how to light a water heater and performing routine maintenance, you can ensure a reliable supply of hot water for your home and avoid unexpected cold showers.Conclusion
Dealing with a cold water surprise from your hot water faucet is a common household annoyance, but as this guide demonstrates, learning how to light a water heater pilot light is often a straightforward fix. From understanding the vital role of the pilot light to distinguishing between manual and electronic ignition systems, and following crucial safety precautions, you now have the knowledge to troubleshoot and restore your hot water supply. Remember, while the process is generally easy, your safety is paramount. Always consult your water heater's specific instructions, and never hesitate to call a qualified professional if you're uncomfortable, suspect a gas leak, or if the pilot light repeatedly fails to stay lit. With a little patience and adherence to these steps, you can confidently relight your water heater and get back to enjoying the comfort of hot water in your home. Have you successfully relit your water heater pilot light using these steps? Do you have any tips or experiences to share? Leave a comment below! If you found this article helpful, please consider sharing it with friends and family who might benefit from this essential home maintenance knowledge. You can also explore our other articles for more practical guides on home appliance care and troubleshooting.
