Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to turn on water heater pilot. In this article, we will guide you through the steps needed to get your water heater pilot up and running, providing you with hot water for your home. This guide is designed for homeowners who may have little to no experience with water heaters and need a step-by-step guide to get started.
Before we dive into the step-by-step process of turning on your water heater pilot, let’s take a moment to discuss what a water heater pilot is and why it is important to have it functioning properly.
What is a Water Heater Pilot?
A water heater pilot is a small flame that ignites the gas burner in your water heater. Without the pilot, you will not have hot water in your home.
Now that we have established the importance of a water heater pilot, let’s get started on how to turn it on.
How to Turn On Water Heater Pilot
Step 1: Locate the Pilot Light
The first step is to locate the pilot light. This is typically found on the front of your water heater, close to the bottom.
Step 2: Turn Off the Gas Supply
Before you begin, it is essential to turn off the gas supply to your water heater. You can do this by turning the valve on the gas line that leads to your water heater to the “off” position.
Step 3: Remove the Access Panel
Once the gas supply is turned off, you can safely remove the access panel to your water heater. This panel is usually located near the bottom of your water heater and can be removed by turning the screws with a screwdriver.
Step 4: Wait Before Proceeding
It is important to give the gas fumes time to dissipate before proceeding. Wait for about 5-10 minutes before proceeding any further.
Step 5: Locate the Pilot Burner
Once you have waited for the gas fumes to dissipate, locate the pilot burner. This is the small tube that extends out from the gas control valve.
Step 6: Turn the Gas Control Knob
Use a long match or a lighter to ignite the pilot burner while turning the gas control knob to the “pilot” position. Hold the control knob in this position for a few seconds before releasing it.
Step 7: Turn the Gas Control Knob to “On”
Once the pilot light is lit, turn the gas control knob to the “On” position. The burner should ignite, and you should hear the sound of the water heater heating up.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Turning On Water Heater Pilot
Advantages of Turning On Water Heater Pilot
1. Hot Water
Turning on your water heater pilot ensures that you have hot water in your home.
2. Cost-Effective
By keeping your water heater pilot on, you can save money on your utility bills by not having to repeatedly turn it on and off.
Disadvantages of Turning On Water Heater Pilot
1. Safety Concerns
Leaving your water heater pilot on can be a safety concern if it is not functioning properly. It can lead to gas leaks and even carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. Wasted Energy
Keeping your water heater pilot on all the time can lead to wasted energy and higher utility bills.
Water Heater Pilot Table
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Locate the pilot light |
| Step 2 | Turn off the gas supply |
| Step 3 | Remove the access panel |
| Step 4 | Wait before proceeding |
| Step 5 | Locate the pilot burner |
| Step 6 | Turn the gas control knob |
| Step 7 | Turn the gas control knob to “On” |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I turn on my water heater pilot?
It is recommended to turn on your water heater pilot only when you need hot water and to turn it back off once you are done using it.
How do I know if my water heater pilot is not functioning properly?
Signs that your water heater pilot is not functioning properly include a lack of hot water, a yellow flame, or a constantly flickering flame.
Can I turn on my water heater pilot without a lighter or match?
No, you will need either a long match or a lighter to ignite your water heater pilot.
Is it safe to turn on my water heater pilot myself?
Yes, it is safe to turn on your water heater pilot yourself as long as you follow the proper safety precautions.
What should I do if I smell gas while turning on my water heater pilot?
If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply immediately and contact a professional plumber or gas company.
Can I turn on my water heater pilot if it has been off for a long time?
Yes, you can turn on your water heater pilot if it has been off for a long time. Just make sure to follow the proper safety precautions.
How can I prevent my water heater pilot from going out?
Regular maintenance, including cleaning the pilot light and checking for gas leaks, can help prevent your water heater pilot from going out.
Can I turn on my water heater pilot if I have an electric water heater?
No, this guide is specifically for gas water heaters that require a pilot light.
Why won’t my water heater pilot light stay on?
Your water heater pilot light may not stay on if there is a problem with the gas control valve or if the pilot light orifice is dirty.
How long should I wait before attempting to turn on my water heater pilot?
It is recommended to wait for at least 5-10 minutes after turning off the gas supply before attempting to turn on your water heater pilot.
What do I do if my water heater pilot won’t turn on?
If your water heater pilot won’t turn on, make sure the gas supply is turned on and check that the thermocouple is functioning properly.
Why is my water heater pilot light yellow?
A yellow pilot light can indicate that there is a problem with the gas combustion, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Contact a professional plumber or gas company to have it checked.
Why is the flame on my water heater pilot flickering?
A flickering flame can indicate a dirty pilot light orifice or a problem with the gas supply. It is important to have it checked by a professional plumber or gas company.
Can I turn on my water heater pilot if it is leaking gas?
No, if you suspect a gas leak, you should immediately turn off the gas supply and contact a professional plumber or gas company.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has been helpful in teaching you how to turn on your water heater pilot. Remember to always follow safety precautions and contact a professional if you have any doubts or concerns. With a functioning water heater pilot, you can enjoy hot water in your home whenever you need it.
Closing Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. We are not responsible for any damages or injuries that may occur while attempting to turn on your water heater pilot. Always consult with a professional plumber or gas company if you have any doubts or concerns.