How to Fix Your Water Heater Pilot Light: 1 Minute to Troubleshoot and Light Your Water Heater

Many homeowners will experience a water heater pilot light going out at some point. This small flame is essential for igniting the gas burner that heats your water, so if it’s out, you’ll quickly notice cold showers and an underperforming hot water system. Fixing your water heater’s pilot light can often be a straightforward DIY task if you follow some basic safety protocols and understand the underlying issues.

Step 1: Safety First

Before starting, ensure your own safety: turn off the water heater’s gas control valve. Wait a few minutes to let any remaining gas dissipate, preventing accidental ignition. If you smell gas in the room, ventilate the area immediately and contact your gas company rather than attempting repairs yourself.

Step 2: Access the Pilot Light

Locate your water heater’s access panel near the bottom. Depending on your model, you may need a screwdriver to remove the panel and expose the pilot assembly.

Step 3: Locate and Clean the Components

Dust, debris, or sediment can block gas flow—a common reason the pilot light won’t stay lit. Gently clean the nozzle and surrounding area with a brush or compressed air. Also inspect the thermocouple, a safety device that senses the pilot flame. If the thermocouple is dirty or misaligned, gently clean and reposition it closer to the flame.

Step 4: Relight the Pilot

Follow the instructions printed on your heater. Typically, this involves holding down the gas control knob to “pilot,” pressing the ignition button or using a long lighter if manual, and holding the button for 30–60 seconds after the flame lights to allow the thermocouple to heat up.

Step 5: Troubleshoot Persistent Issues

If the pilot light keeps going out, your thermocouple might be faulty, or you may have a more serious gas supply issue. In such cases, replacing the thermocouple is often a low-cost solution. If that doesn’t solve the problem, call a licensed technician to avoid safety hazards.

As a designer, I often face situations where mechanical or utility fixtures—like a water heater—interfere with the overall layout of a space. When reworking a utility closet or basement, I always recommend thinking about not just access for maintenance like relighting pilot lights, but also how to integrate such functional elements into a seamless interior scheme. Tools like a room planner can help you re-envision these utility spaces for safety, accessibility, and style.

Tips 1:

Check your water heater’s manual for specific lighting instructions, as procedures vary by model. Also, always ensure adequate lighting and ventilation when working near gas appliances. If you’re planning a larger renovation where a water heater will be moved, review local building codes about permissible placements, ventilation, and alcove requirements for safety and performance.

FAQ

Q: Why does my water heater pilot light keep going out?

A: Common causes include a dirty or faulty thermocouple, drafts blowing out the flame, or issues with the gas supply. Cleaning or replacing the thermocouple usually fixes the problem.

Q: Is it safe to relight a pilot light myself?

A: As long as you follow manufacturer instructions and don’t smell gas, it’s generally safe. If you smell gas, do not attempt to relight—call your utility provider immediately.

Q: How do I know if the thermocouple is bad?

A: If the pilot won’t stay lit after several attempts, even after cleaning, the thermocouple may not be registering heat and should be replaced.

Q: Should I turn off the gas supply before working on the pilot light?

A: Yes, always turn off the gas control valve and wait a few minutes for safety before accessing or relighting the pilot light.

Q: Why is the location of my water heater important?

A: Proper placement ensures easy maintenance, efficiency, and compliance with safety codes. Good layout planning can also integrate the heater into your home’s overall design.