When your Rheem water heater‘s pilot light goes out, it can leave you without hot water. But don’t worry, relighting the pilot light is a simple task that you can do yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to light pilot water heater Rheem:
Safety First
Before you start, ensure you take the necessary safety precautions:
- Turn off the gas supply to the water heater.
- Allow the water heater to cool down completely.
- Ventilate the area around the water heater.
Materials You’ll Need
You’ll need the following materials to light the pilot light:
- A long-neck lighter or match
- A small screwdriver or Allen wrench
- A flashlight (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Locate the Pilot Light Assembly: The pilot light assembly is usually located at the bottom of the water heater. It consists of a small metal tube with a burner and a thermocouple.
2. Turn off the Gas Supply: Locate the gas control valve and turn it to the “Off” position. This will stop the flow of gas to the pilot light.
3. Wait for the Water Heater to Cool: Allow the water heater to cool down for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent any gas from building up and causing an explosion.
4. Open the Access Panel: Most Rheem water heaters have an access panel on the front or side. Remove the screws holding the panel in place and swing it open.
5. Locate the Pilot Light Adjustment Screw: The pilot light adjustment screw is usually located on the side of the pilot light assembly. It’s a small screw that adjusts the flow of gas to the pilot light.
6. Turn the Adjustment Screw Counterclockwise: Use a small screwdriver or Allen wrench to turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise. This will increase the flow of gas to the pilot light.
7. Light the Pilot Light: Use a long-neck lighter or match to light the pilot light. Hold the flame near the burner and press the ignition button or turn the ignition knob.
8. Adjust the Flame: Once the pilot light is lit, adjust the flame to a height of about 1/2 inch. Use the pilot light adjustment screw to make the adjustment.
9. Turn on the Gas Supply: Slowly turn the gas control valve to the “On” position. This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light and keep it lit.
10. Close the Access Panel: Replace the access panel and tighten the screws.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble lighting the pilot light, try the following troubleshooting tips:
- Check the Gas Supply: Make sure that the gas supply is turned on and that there are no leaks.
- Clean the Pilot Light Assembly: Remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking the pilot light.
- Replace the Thermocouple: If the thermocouple is faulty, it will not send a signal to the gas control valve to open. Replace the thermocouple.
- Call a Professional: If you’re unable to light the pilot light yourself, call a qualified plumber or gas technician.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your Rheem water heater‘s pilot light burning properly, follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean the pilot light assembly regularly.
- Check the thermocouple periodically and replace it if necessary.
- Inspect the gas supply line for leaks.
- Have your water heater inspected by a qualified professional annually.
Beyond the Basics: Understanding Pilot Water Heaters
How Does a Pilot Water Heater Work?
Pilot water heaters use a small flame, called a pilot light, to ignite the main burner when hot water is needed. The pilot light is continuously burning, and when you open a hot water tap, the drop in water pressure causes a diaphragm in the gas control valve to open, allowing gas to flow to the main burner.
Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out?
There are several reasons why the pilot light on your Rheem water heater may go out, including:
- Drafts
- Power outages
- Debris buildup
- Faulty thermocouple
Can I Leave the Pilot Light Off?
No, you should not leave the pilot light off for extended periods. If the pilot light is off, the water heater will not be able to provide hot water.
Wrapping Up
Lighting the pilot light on your Rheem water heater is a simple task that you can do yourself. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your water heater is providing you with hot water when you need it.
Questions You May Have
Q: Why is my Rheem water heater pilot light not staying lit?
A: There could be several reasons, including a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot light tube, or a weak flame.
Q: Can I use a regular lighter to light the pilot light?
A: No, it’s recommended to use a long-neck lighter or match designed for lighting pilot lights.
Q: How often should I clean the pilot light assembly?
A: It’s recommended to clean the pilot light assembly at least once a year.
