A water heater’s pilot light, a small flame that ignites the main gas burner, is essential for providing hot water. However, sometimes the pilot light can mysteriously go out, leaving you with cold showers and a puzzling dilemma: “Why does my water heater pilot keep going out?”
Heading 1: Common Culprits Behind a Fickle Pilot Light
1. Draft or Wind
Drafts or wind can blow out the pilot light, especially if the water heater is located in a drafty area like a garage or basement.
2. Clogged Orifice
The orifice, a small hole where gas flows, can become clogged with dirt or debris, preventing the pilot light from staying lit.
3. Faulty Thermocouple
The thermocouple, a safety device that senses the pilot light‘s flame, can malfunction and cause the gas valve to shut off, extinguishing the pilot.
4. Debris or Corrosion
Over time, debris or corrosion can accumulate on the pilot light assembly, interfering with its proper operation.
5. Water Leakage
Water leakage into the water heater can cause the pilot light to go out or prevent it from igniting.
Heading 2: Troubleshooting the Extinguished Pilot Light
1. Check for Drafts
Inspect the area around the water heater for any sources of drafts. Seal any gaps or cracks to prevent wind from blowing out the pilot.
2. Clean the Orifice
Use a fine-wire brush to gently clean the orifice. Avoid using sharp objects that could damage it.
3. Test the Thermocouple
To test the thermocouple, disconnect it from the gas valve and hold the tip in a flame. If the gas valve opens, the thermocouple is working correctly.
4. Remove Debris and Corrosion
Clean the pilot light assembly thoroughly, removing any debris or corrosion. Use a soft brush or compressed air to avoid damaging delicate components.
5. Check for Water Leakage
Inspect the water heater for any leaks. If water is present, contact a plumber to repair the leak and prevent further damage.
Heading 3: Relighting the Pilot Light
Once you have identified and addressed the cause of the extinguished pilot light, it’s time to relight it. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Turn Off Gas Supply
Turn off the gas supply to the water heater using the gas valve.
2. Wait 5 Minutes
Wait at least 5 minutes to allow any gas to dissipate.
3. Light the Pilot
Using a long lighter or match, light the pilot light and hold it for 30 seconds.
4. Turn On Gas Supply
Slowly turn the gas valve back on. The pilot light should remain lit.
Heading 4: Maintenance Tips to Prevent Pilot Light Extinguishment
To prevent future pilot light outages, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Regular Inspections
Regularly inspect the water heater and pilot light assembly for any signs of debris or corrosion.
2. Clean the Orifice Annually
Clean the orifice at least once a year to prevent clogging.
3. Check for Leaks
Check for any water leaks around the water heater.
4. Call a Plumber for Problems
If you are unable to identify or fix the cause of the extinguished pilot light, call a qualified plumber for assistance.
Heading 5: Safety Precautions
When working on a water heater, always follow these safety precautions:
1. Turn Off Gas Supply
Always turn off the gas supply before performing any maintenance or repairs.
2. Use Caution
Be careful when using a lighter or match to light the pilot light.
3. Avoid Sparks
Avoid creating sparks near the water heater, as gas can be present.
Heading 6: Alternative Water Heater Options
If you experience frequent pilot light outages, you may want to consider alternative water heater options:
1. Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters do not have a pilot light, eliminating the risk of extinguishment.
2. Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, so there is no need for a pilot light to stay lit.
Heading 7: Conclusion: Keeping Your Pilot Light Alight
Understanding the reasons why your water heater pilot light keeps going out and knowing how to fix and prevent it is essential for maintaining a reliable hot water supply. By following the troubleshooting steps and maintenance tips outlined above, you can ensure that your pilot light remains lit and your showers stay warm.
What People Want to Know
1. Why does my water heater pilot light go out after a few seconds?
This could be due to a clogged orifice, a faulty thermocouple, or debris on the pilot light assembly.
2. Can I relight the pilot light myself?
Yes, you can relight the pilot light yourself by following the steps outlined in the “Relighting the Pilot Light” section above. However, if you are not comfortable working with gas appliances, it is advisable to call a plumber.
3. How often should I clean the water heater pilot light?
It is recommended to clean the pilot light assembly and orifice at least once a year to prevent clogging and debris accumulation.
