Relight the Pilot — Set the Water Heater Control Knob to 'Pilot'
Part of project
How to Relight a Gas Water Heater Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 2 of 5
In this video
Turn the gas supply back on to the water heater. Turn the control knob to the 'PILOT' setting. Press and hold the pilot button to start the flow of gas. Use a long-reach lighter to ignite the pilot flame. Continue to hold the pilot button for approximately 30-60 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up sufficiently.
Goal: Relight the pilot light
Used in this video
- Lighter — Igniting the pilot light gas.
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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.
Relight the Pilot — Set the Water Heater Control Knob to 'Pilot'
Part of project
How to Relight a Gas Water Heater Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 2 of 5
In this video
Turn the gas supply back on to the water heater. Turn the control knob to the 'PILOT' setting. Press and hold the pilot button to start the flow of gas. Use a long-reach lighter to ignite the pilot flame. Continue to hold the pilot button for approximately 30-60 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up sufficiently.
Goal: Relight the pilot light
Used in this video
- Lighter — Igniting the pilot light gas.
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.