Access the Burner Assembly — Access Your Gas Water Heater's Pilot Light
Part of project
How to Relight a Gas Water Heater Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 1 of 5
In this video
If your pilot light will not light after following the standard instructions, first locate the lower metal cover plate on the front of the water heater. Grasp the cover and pull it straight off to remove it. This will provide access to the burner chamber, the sight glass, and the igniter assembly.
Goal: Expose the igniter and thermal switch
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FAQs
What should I do immediately if I smell gas at any point during this relighting process?
If you detect any gas odor, stop immediately. Turn off the main gas supply valve to your water heater and evacuate the area. Do not attempt to continue the relighting process, and contact your gas company or a qualified plumber for professional assistance to locate and fix the leak.
I've lit the pilot, but it goes out as soon as I release the control knob. What's the problem?
This common issue typically points to a faulty or insufficiently heated thermocouple. Try holding the control knob in for the full 60 seconds (or even a little longer) to ensure the thermocouple has enough time to heat up. If the pilot still won't stay lit, the thermocouple may be dirty, misaligned, or need to be replaced.
Do I need the specific Husky screwdriver and Scripto lighter mentioned, or can I use different tools?
No, the specific brands mentioned are just examples. Any standard Phillips or flathead screwdriver that fits your water heater's access panel screws will work. For lighting the pilot, any long-reach lighter, such as a BBQ lighter or even a long wooden match, is suitable.
The project is marked 'beginner' and '45 minutes,' but I'm finding it difficult or it's taking much longer. What should I do?
The difficulty and time estimates are averages; it's perfectly fine if it takes you longer, especially if it's your first time. If you're struggling with any step, feel unsafe, or simply can't get the pilot to light after several attempts, don't hesitate to pause and call a qualified plumber for assistance. Safety is paramount.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Access the Burner Assembly — Access Your Gas Water Heater's Pilot Light
Part of project
How to Relight a Gas Water Heater Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 1 of 5
In this video
If your pilot light will not light after following the standard instructions, first locate the lower metal cover plate on the front of the water heater. Grasp the cover and pull it straight off to remove it. This will provide access to the burner chamber, the sight glass, and the igniter assembly.
Goal: Expose the igniter and thermal switch
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately if I smell gas at any point during this relighting process?
If you detect any gas odor, stop immediately. Turn off the main gas supply valve to your water heater and evacuate the area. Do not attempt to continue the relighting process, and contact your gas company or a qualified plumber for professional assistance to locate and fix the leak.
I've lit the pilot, but it goes out as soon as I release the control knob. What's the problem?
This common issue typically points to a faulty or insufficiently heated thermocouple. Try holding the control knob in for the full 60 seconds (or even a little longer) to ensure the thermocouple has enough time to heat up. If the pilot still won't stay lit, the thermocouple may be dirty, misaligned, or need to be replaced.
Do I need the specific Husky screwdriver and Scripto lighter mentioned, or can I use different tools?
No, the specific brands mentioned are just examples. Any standard Phillips or flathead screwdriver that fits your water heater's access panel screws will work. For lighting the pilot, any long-reach lighter, such as a BBQ lighter or even a long wooden match, is suitable.
The project is marked 'beginner' and '45 minutes,' but I'm finding it difficult or it's taking much longer. What should I do?
The difficulty and time estimates are averages; it's perfectly fine if it takes you longer, especially if it's your first time. If you're struggling with any step, feel unsafe, or simply can't get the pilot to light after several attempts, don't hesitate to pause and call a qualified plumber for assistance. Safety is paramount.
Video Transcript
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Video Transcript
(235 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.