The Importance of Knowing How to Turn On a Water Heater Pilot
Water heaters are essential appliances that produce hot water for domestic use. They are essential in every household, and their importance cannot be overemphasized. However, like any other appliance, they are prone to malfunctions and need regular maintenance for optimal performance. A common issue that homeowners face with their water heaters is the pilot light going out. This can be frustrating, especially when you don’t know how to turn it back on. Knowing how to turn on a water heater pilot is an essential skill that every homeowner should have. It will save you time, money, and the stress of having to wait for a plumber to fix the issue.
How to Turn On a Water Heater Pilot
Step 1: Turn off the gas supply valve 🔥
The first thing you should do before attempting to turn on the pilot is to turn off the gas supply valve. The gas supply valve is usually located near the water heater. Turn the valve to the “off” position to ensure that no gas is flowing to the water heater.
Step 2: Remove the access panel 🔧
After turning off the gas supply valve, remove the access panel to expose the pilot and burner assembly. The access panel is usually located at the bottom of the water heater. Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the screws or bolts holding the panel in place.
Step 3: Locate the pilot light and control valve 🔍
Once you have removed the access panel, locate the pilot light and control valve. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner. The control valve is a knob that regulates the flow of gas to the pilot light and burner.
Step 4: Turn the control valve to “pilot” 🔥
Turn the control valve to the “pilot” position. This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light when you press down on the control valve.
Step 5: Press down on the control valve and light the pilot 🔥
Press down on the control valve to allow gas to flow to the pilot light. Use a long match or lighter to light the pilot. Hold the control valve down for 30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open. If the pilot stays lit, turn the control valve to the “on” position to ignite the burner.
Step 6: Replace the access panel 🔧
After the pilot is lit and the burner is ignited, replace the access panel and secure it with screws or bolts.
The Pros and Cons of Turning on a Water Heater Pilot
Advantages
1. Saves you money 💰
Turning on a water heater pilot yourself can save you money. You don’t have to pay for a plumber to fix a simple issue that you can handle yourself.
2. Saves you time ⏰
Waiting for a plumber to fix a minor issue like a pilot light can be time-consuming. Turning on the pilot yourself can save you valuable time that you can use for other things.
3. Gives you a sense of accomplishment 🎉
Fixing something yourself can give you a sense of accomplishment. Knowing how to turn on a water heater pilot is an essential skill that every homeowner should have, and mastering this skill can give you a sense of achievement.
Disadvantages
1. Risk of injury or property damage ⚠️
Turning on a water heater pilot can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. Gas leaks, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning are some of the potential hazards that come with handling gas appliances.
2. Voiding the warranty 🚫
If your water heater is still under warranty, attempting to fix it yourself can void the warranty. It’s best to check the warranty first and see if the issue is covered.
3. Incomplete fix 🔧
Fixing the pilot light may not solve the underlying problem causing it to go out. If the issue is not properly addressed, the pilot light may continue to go out, leading to more frustration and expenses.
Table of Steps to Turn On a Water Heater Pilot
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Turn off the gas supply valve |
| Step 2 | Remove the access panel |
| Step 3 | Locate the pilot light and control valve |
| Step 4 | Turn the control valve to “pilot” |
| Step 5 | Press down on the control valve and light the pilot |
| Step 6 | Replace the access panel |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How often should I turn on my water heater pilot?
It’s best to turn on your water heater pilot as soon as it goes out. Delaying it can lead to more problems and expenses.
2. Can I turn on my water heater pilot if I smell gas?
No. If you smell gas, leave the house immediately and call the gas company or fire department.
3. Can I turn on my water heater pilot if it’s still under warranty?
It’s best to check the warranty first and see if the issue is covered. Attempting to fix it yourself can void the warranty.
4. What causes the pilot light to go out?
The pilot light may go out due to a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot tube, or a gas valve problem.
5. Can I relight the pilot light myself?
Yes. Relighting the pilot light is a simple process that you can do yourself.
6. What should I do if the pilot light goes out again?
If the pilot light goes out again, it’s best to call a plumber or a professional to identify and fix the underlying problem.
7. Can I use a lighter to light the pilot light?
Yes. You can use a long lighter or match to light the pilot light.
8. How long should I hold down the control valve after lighting the pilot?
You should hold down the control valve for at least 30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open.
9. What should I do if the pilot light doesn’t stay lit?
If the pilot light doesn’t stay lit, it may be due to a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot tube, or a gas valve problem. It’s best to call a plumber or a professional to identify and fix the issue.
10. Can I fix the pilot light myself if it doesn’t stay lit?
No. Fixing the pilot light may require specialized tools and knowledge that only a professional can provide.
11. Can turning on the pilot light be dangerous?
Yes. Turning on the pilot light can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. Gas leaks, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning are some of the potential hazards that come with handling gas appliances.
12. What should I do if I suspect a gas leak?
If you suspect a gas leak, leave the house immediately and call the gas company or fire department.
13. How can I prevent the pilot light from going out?
Regular maintenance and inspection of the water heater can prevent the pilot light from going out. It’s best to have a professional inspect your water heater at least once a year.
Conclusion
Knowing how to turn on a water heater pilot is an essential skill that every homeowner should have. It can save you time, money, and the stress of having to wait for a plumber to fix the issue. However, turning on the pilot light can be dangerous, and it’s essential to take precautions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Regular maintenance and inspection of the water heater can prevent the pilot light from going out. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to call a plumber or a professional to address the issue.
Closing Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take precautions when handling gas appliances. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s best to call a plumber or a professional to address the issue. The author and publisher are not responsible for any damages or injuries resulting from the use of the information provided in this article.