Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit On Water Heater (Troubleshooting Guide)

Having your gas water heater’s pilot light flame go out is an inconvenient and frustrating problem to face. When your water heater pilot light won’t stay lit, you’re left without hot water, making something as simple as taking a shower irksome. Common reasons why your water heater pilot light keeps going out include issues with the thermocouple or access to combustible air.

The thermocouple can malfunction, accumulate dust buildup, or become bent away from the pilot light’s flame, causing it to struggle to sense the pilot light and stop the gas supply. Lack of combustible air can also cause the pilot light to go out, so it’s important to keep the surrounding area clean. If you can’t relight the pilot or it keeps going out, it may be necessary to replace the thermocouple or call a professional technician for further inspection and repairs.

Key Takeaways:

• Common reasons for a water heater pilot light going out are issues with the thermocouple or a lack of combustible air.
• If you can’t relight the pilot or it keeps going out, it may be necessary to replace the thermocouple.
• Regular maintenance and attention to the pilot light will help ensure the reliable and efficient operation of your gas water heater.

Why does the pilot light on my water heater keep going out?

The pilot light on your water heater can keep going out due to two common reasons: issues with the thermocouple or a lack of combustible air. Let’s explore each of these causes in more detail:

1. Problem with the thermocouple

The thermocouple is a safety device that senses whether the pilot light is lit. If the thermocouple malfunctions, accumulates dust buildup, or becomes bent away from the pilot light’s flame, it may struggle to sense the presence of the flame and stop the gas supply. This results in the pilot light going out.

2. Lack of combustible air

Another common cause for the pilot light going out is a lack of combustible air. If your water heater is surrounded by clutter, lint, or debris, it may not receive enough air for combustion. As a result, the pilot light struggles to stay lit and goes out frequently.

Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot and address the issue effectively, ensuring a consistent and reliable pilot light on your water heater.

What do I do if my water heater pilot light keeps going out?

If you’re facing the frustrating issue of your water heater pilot light constantly going out, there are steps you can take to try and resolve the problem yourself. Follow these simple instructions to relight your water heater pilot light:

1. Find the gas shut-off knob and turn it to the “Off” position to stop the flow of gas.
2. Wait for a few minutes to allow any remaining gas to dissipate.
3. Remove the access panel to reach the burner.
4. Turn the gas knob to the “Pilot” position to start the flow of gas.
5. Press and hold the gas knob down while attempting to light the pilot. Use a long lighter or press the igniting button if available.
6. Once the pilot is ignited, release the gas knob and turn it to the “On” position.
7. Listen for the main burner to turn on, indicating that the pilot light is successfully relit.

If you’re unable to relight the pilot light or it continues to go out, there may be a more complex issue at hand, such as a faulty thermocouple. In such cases, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance and have a qualified technician inspect and make any necessary repairs to your water heater.

Can I replace a thermocouple myself?

If you’re DIY-inclined, you may be able to replace the thermocouple yourself. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:

1. Start by shutting off the gas valve to ensure safety.
2. Locate the burner and thermocouple assembly on your water heater.
3. Using a wrench, unscrew the nut connecting the thermocouple to the gas control valve.
4. Remove the old thermocouple from its mounting bracket.
5. Insert the new thermocouple into the mounting bracket, making sure it’s securely in place.
6. Reattach the nut to the gas control valve and tighten it with a wrench.
7. Turn on the gas valve and test the pilot light to ensure it stays lit.

However, it’s important to note that if you’re not familiar with small repairs or unsure about the process, it’s recommended to call a professional technician. They can not only replace the thermocouple for you but also inspect the water heater for any other potential issues. A professional technician can also offer valuable advice and tips for current and future problems, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of your water heater.

Tips for a successful DIY thermocouple replacement:

• Make sure to wear safety gloves and goggles to protect yourself during the process.
• Double-check that the gas valve is completely turned off before starting any work.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines specific to your water heater model.
• Take your time and be patient when disconnecting and reconnecting the thermocouple to avoid any damage.
• If you encounter any difficulties or feel unsure, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for assistance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, troubleshooting a water heater pilot light that won’t stay lit can help restore the hot water supply in your home. Two common reasons for this issue include a faulty thermocouple or a lack of combustible air. By following the proper steps to relight the pilot light and ensuring a steady gas supply, you can often resolve the problem on your own.

However, if the pilot light continues to go out or if the flame appears weak or the wrong color, it is advisable to seek professional assistance from a trusted plumber or technician. They have the expertise to diagnose the underlying cause and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.

To maintain the reliable and efficient operation of your gas water heater, regular maintenance and attention to the pilot light are essential. Keeping the surrounding area clean and free from clutter, lint, or debris will help prevent future issues with the pilot light.