Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out on Your Water Heater?: 1 Minute to Understanding Common Issues and Solutions

The pilot light in a water heater is a small, continuously burning flame that ignites the main burner when hot water is needed. When this pilot light goes out, it means the heater won’t produce hot water until it’s re-lit. Several common issues can cause your pilot light to go out:

1. Thermocouple malfunction: The thermocouple is a safety device that senses the flame. If it’s dirty, bent, or faulty, it may not detect the pilot flame and will automatically shut off the gas supply.
2. Drafts or ventilation issues: Air movement near the water heater can blow out the pilot light. This often occurs in basements or areas with poor insulation.
3. Dirty or clogged pilot orifice: Dust or dirt can accumulate, preventing the pilot light from burning steadily.
4. Gas supply problems: Low gas pressure or interruptions in the supply can cause the pilot to go out.
5. Improperly installed or aging components: Over time, water heater components may wear out or fail due to age.

As a designer, I pay particular attention to the placement of water heaters in homes. Ensuring appropriate ventilation, insulation, and accessibility for maintenance can greatly reduce issues with pilot lights. Integrating service access into a home’s home designer workflow not only improves function but supports long-term reliability for these essential systems.

Tips 1:

Regularly schedule maintenance for your water heater to check the thermocouple, clean components, and address any draft issues. Proper placement and upgrading older models can help prevent frequent pilot light outages.

FAQ

Q: What should I do first if my pilot light goes out?

A: Check for drafts, relight according to manufacturer instructions, and inspect the thermocouple for dirt or damage.

Q: Can I relight my water heater pilot light myself?

A: Yes, most units have simple instructions, but call a professional if you’re unsure or notice recurring issues.

Q: Is it dangerous if my pilot light keeps going out?

A: Repeated outages may indicate a safety issue with the gas valve or thermocouple—seek professional help immediately.

Q: How often should I maintain my water heater?

A: Annual inspections and cleaning can prevent most pilot-related problems.

Q: Will replacing the thermocouple solve the problem?

A: If the thermocouple is faulty, replacement often restores normal function, but also check for other underlying causes.