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Attempt Standard Pilot Lighting Procedure — Set the Water Heater Control Knob to 'Pilot'

Beginner45 mins

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How to Relight a Gas Water Heater Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 2 of 5

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The user explains that the pilot light on their gas water heater went out. They demonstrate the standard procedure for relighting the pilot as per the instructions on the unit. This involves turning the gas control knob to the 'PILOT' position, pressing and holding the knob, and repeatedly pressing the igniter button. The issue is that while the pilot ignites, it extinguishes as soon as the control knob is turned to a temperature setting.

Goal: Relight Pilot Light

588.8K views4.0K2 minutes
Roger Wakefield Plumbing Education

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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.

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a thousand times where you turn this to off and you switch it to pilot press it down and then you hit the signature button until that comes on well every time I hit the pilot and the igniter this little teeny tiny blue flame would come up but as soon as I tried to switch it to hot poof it would go away I

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