* Caution: Most modern water heaters no longer use standing pilots. They use electronic ignition to ignite the gas. Do not attempt to manually light an electronic ignition system.
Where is the pilot light on my hot water heater?
Your hot water heater pilot light can usually be found beneath the water tank on your unit. You may need to remove an access panel to access it. Some newer models may have the pilot light behind a glass panel. The casing for the pilot light should look like a small silver tube.
What causes a pilot light to go out on a water heater?
Some of the most common reasons that water heater pilot lights go out include: A faulty thermocouple. … Over time, thermocouples can begin to malfunction and shut off the gas supply to the pilot light even if it’s burning properly. A bent or dirty thermocouple.
How do I know if the pilot light is out on my water heater?
It’s usually right on the panel. Turn and hold the knob to “Pilot” and push the ignitor. You should hear it click, and probably also a “whooshing” sound. Check in that gap, and you should see the light on.What do I do if my water heater won't light?
If you have a natural or propane gas water heater, chances are the pilot has gone out. … If the pilot doesn’t relight, if it goes out right after lighting or if it goes out repeatedly, by far the most common cause is a bad thermocouple.
Can I relight the pilot light by myself?
If your pilot light goes out, your furnace will not be able to produce heat because its burners will not ignite. Often, homeowners can relight the pilot themselves.
How do you light a hot water heater without an igniter?
- Take a long lighter to reach the pilot. …
- Remove the plate attached below the dial box. …
- Switch Pilot to OFF.
- Wait for a while, – 5-10 minutes until there won’t be any gas.
- Change the temperature to LOW, and switch to Pilot.
- Push ON/OFF dial down, and simultaneously use the lighter.
Should the pilot light always be on in a gas heater?
Most furnaces with electronic ignition have a device called a hot surface igniter. … The difference is that the flame is only lit (by an electronic spark) when your furnace is ready for a heating cycle. When the pilot light is not needed, it is completely off, saving you money on gas.How do I know if my pilot light is out?
- Locate the front cover panel on your furnace. It should be a little door that’s easily visible. …
- If your pilot light is on, it should be easy to see – your eyes will be drawn to the little flame.
- If you don’t see a flame, your pilot light is out.
- If there is a flame, check the color.
If your pilot light won’t stay alight, it might be the thermocouple. Sometimes dust buildup collects on the thermocouple and blocks the sensor. Try cleaning the thermocouple and then relighting the pilot light. If it continues to go out, the thermocouple might need to be replaced.
Article first time published onCan you manually light a water heater?
Lighting the Pilot Light on a Manual Hot Water Heater If your hot water heater is a manual, grab a long lighter. … Now, hold the pilot dial down while you light the burner. You’re going to hold the pilot button down for at least 30 seconds before you release it.
Can I manually light my gas water heater?
Lighting a water heater is simple, no matter what type you have. Most newer models of gas water heaters have a simple ignition switch. In just a few steps the water heater is lit, no problem. If you’ve moved into an older house, though, you many have the kind of water heater that needs to be lit manually.
Why is my electric hot water heater not working?
No Power or Gas If an electric water heater is not producing hot water, it could be a simple problem like a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. Additionally, some electric water heaters have a circuit-style safety switch located near or on the thermostat.
How much does it cost to relight a water heater?
Most service providers will charge a standard fee per visit that typically covers the cost to relight a gas water heater. This service call price can range from $80 to $100.
Why does my water heater not stay lit?
When the pilot light on a water heater will no longer stays lit, it typically means the thermocouple is bad. Thermocouples are little electric generators that create a magnetic current that holds open a magnetic gas valve inside the control unit on the front of the water heater.
