How to Light Your AO Smith Water Heater: 1 Minute to Get Hot Water Fast

Lighting the pilot on your AO Smith water heater can seem intimidating if you’ve never done it before, but it’s a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. First, make sure your water heater model uses a standing pilot light and not an electronic ignition system. For most AO Smith models with a pilot, you’ll need to locate the gas control valve on the outside of the unit at the base. Here’s a standard step-by-step guide:

1. Turn the Gas Control Knob to “OFF” and wait at least five minutes to ensure any residual gas has dissipated. This prevents accidents and keeps your lighting process safe.
2. Set the Control to “PILOT”. Push the knob down and hold it to start gas flow to the pilot.
3. While holding the knob down, press the piezo igniter button repeatedly (if equipped) until you see the pilot flame through the viewing window. If not, use a long lighter to ignite manually, depending on your model’s design.
4. Once the pilot lights, keep holding the knob down for 30-60 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up and keep the gas flowing.
5. Release the knob. The pilot should stay lit. If it does, turn the knob to “ON” and adjust the thermostat to your desired setting. If not, repeat the process, ensuring you follow each safety step.

As a designer, I often find that the area around a water heater is overlooked, both in terms of accessibility and aesthetics. When integrating utility appliances into a home, I recommend ensuring clear, well-planned access to your floor layout for utility spaces—this not only makes maintenance tasks like lighting your water heater much easier, but also keeps the overall environment organized and user-friendly.

Tips 1:

Always read the specific instructions on your AO Smith water heater’s label or in the user manual. Each model may have unique features or safety requirements. If the pilot does not stay lit after a few tries, or if you smell gas, turn everything off and contact a professional immediately for safety.

FAQ

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

A: Common causes include a faulty thermocouple, a dirty pilot orifice, or issues with the gas supply. Check these components and consult your manual or a technician for help.

Q: How do I know if my AO Smith water heater uses a standing pilot or electronic ignition?

A: Check the control panel or the user manual—electronic ignition models usually don’t have a pilot you need to light manually.

Q: Is it safe to light the pilot myself?

A: Yes, as long as you follow manufacturer instructions, take precautions, and avoid lighting the pilot if you smell gas until the area is properly ventilated.

Q: How long should I hold the gas control knob down when lighting the pilot?

A: Typically 30 to 60 seconds, to ensure the thermocouple heats up and the pilot flame remains on.

Q: Why is accessibility important in the room where my water heater is located?

A: Proper accessibility makes maintenance safer and more efficient, and good interior layout design can even add value to your home by keeping utility spaces functional and organized.