When you jump in that shower, you want a soothing, hot stream – not a blast of icy winter water. Gas hot water systems are fantastic when they work, but when the gas hot water pilot light goes out … not so much. But while a non-functioning gas pilot light on a hot water system might seem like a big problem, the good news is it’s often a super-simple fix.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your hot water system pilot light back on – stat!
Understanding your pilot light hot water system
Before we dive into the easy step-by-step process of how to relight a gas water heater, let’s quickly cover what a pilot light even is – and why it might have gone out in the first place. Experiencing frustrating pilot light gas hot water problems? Help is here.
Actually, it’s really simple: it’s a small flame that uses a teenie-tiny amount of gas that’s right there and ready to ignite the burner when hot water is needed. It’s absolutely crucial for the functioning of the hot water system, but sometimes it can blow out for completely innocent reasons – like a major gust of wind or a temporary interruption in the gas supply.
Step-by-step: Relighting your pilot light on a gas water heater
Let’s walk through the process of relighting your hot water pilot light. We’ve designed it to be really easy to follow, even if you’ve never even imagined you’d ever do it before. However, it’s important to note that some gas hot water systems may not allow users to relight the pilot light easily, so if that sounds like your situation, don’t waste any more time under that freezing stream of cold shower water and instead call in the professionals.
Step 1: Safety first
Before getting started, turn off the gas supply to your hot water system. It’s just a matter of finding the gas valve and turning it to the “off” position.
Step 2: Locate the pilot light assembly
Next up, find the pilot light assembly on your hot water system. You’ll normally find it near the bottom of the unit, where you’ll discover the gas valve, a control knob – and the pilot light!
Step 3: Turn the gas control knob
The pilot light on gas water heater systems can be easy to re-light, but you need to follow the steps carefully. Turn that gas control knob to the ‘pilot’ position. This allows gas to flow to the pilot light, but not to the main burner.
Step 4: Light that pilot!
Using a long lighter or a match, hold the flame to the pilot light opening. While you’re doing this, press and hold the reset button on the gas control knob. Keep the button pressed for about 30 seconds after the pilot light ignites to ensure it stays lit.
Step 5: Release the reset button
Once you’ve held that reset button for at least 30 seconds, slowly release it. Did the how water system pilot light stay lit? Congrats! If it went out, don’t panic – and instead repeat the process because it tends to happen on try number 2 or 3.
Step 6: Turn the gas control knob to “On”
Well done, your pilot light is successfully lit and is staying on! Now, turn that gas control knob to the “on” position, which allows gas to flow to the main burner. Now, your hot water system should start heating water normally again.
Step 7: Turn the gas supply back on
First, replace those covers or panels and make sure they’re secure, and then turn the gas supply back on. Your gas hot water system pilot light should now be relit and functioning properly – and you’re done!
Pilot light gas heater: Need professional help?
Relighting the pilot light on your gas water heater can be a super-straightforward task if you follow these steps carefully. But if you’re still having trouble, either you’re making a mistake somewhere – which is never good when you’re working with hazardous gas – or something a bit more serious like a gas leak might be going on. If that sounds like your situation, stop what you’re doing right now, turn the gas back off to be on the safe side, and call in the experts.
At S&J Plumbing and Gasfitting, we’re not just expert plumbers – we’re also fully licensed and experienced gasfitters. From everything to a simple pilot light re-light to a much more complex issue at play, we investigate, repair, service or replace your gas hot water systems, quickly and easily and affordably. For professional assistance to keep your Brisbane Northside or Brisbane Southside home warm and comfortable, contact our friendly local plumbing team today.