If your pilot light won’t stay lit, it can be a real hassle. You rely on hot water for cooking, cleaning, and hygiene, so you don’t want to be without it for long.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem and get your pilot light back on in no time. We have the solution – our easy-to-follow guide will help you troubleshoot your water heater and get your pilot light back on in no time. Plus, we offer tips for how to prevent your pilot light from going out in the future. Don’t be left in the dark – let us help you keep your home comfortable and lit!
What is a pilot light, and why does it go out sometimes?
A pilot light is a small flame that burns continuously to provide heat to the water in your water heater. It’s important to have a pilot light because it keeps your water heater running efficiently and prevents it from overheating. However, sometimes the pilot light will go out, either because of a problem with the heater or because of something you’re doing wrong.
Most Common Causes of a Pilot Light Going Out
Sometimes the pilot light goes out because of a problem with the heater – for example if the thermostat is broken or there’s a clog in the gas line. But often, the pilot light will go out because of something you’re doing wrong.
Here are a few common mistakes people make that can cause their pilot light to go out:
1. Not keeping the area around the water heater clear. If something is blocking the flow of air around the heater, it can cause the pilot light to go out. Make sure to keep all plants, furniture, and other objects away from the heater.
2. Forgetting to turn off the gas valve when you’re done using your water heater. If you don’t turn off the gas valve when you’re done using your water heater, it can cause the pilot light to go out.
3. Not keeping the water heater properly maintained. A well-maintained water heater will run more efficiently and will be less likely to have problems with the pilot light going out.
How to Troubleshoot a Pilot Light That Won’t Stay Lit
If your pilot light goes out, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem. The first step is to try relighting the pilot light. This is usually a reasonably easy process, and we have a guide that will show you how to do it. If the pilot light still doesn’t stay lit, there may be a problem with the heater itself. In this case, you’ll need to call a professional to help fix the problem.
First, check the gas valve to see if it’s in the “on” position. It’s possible that someone bumped it and turned it off without realizing it. If the gas valve is in the “off” position, turn it to the “on” position and wait a few minutes to see if the pilot light ignites.
It could be your thermocouple
If the pilot light still won’t stay lit, the next thing you should check is the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. Over time, thermocouples can wear out and stop working properly. If you think your thermocouple may be faulty, you can try lighting the pilot light and then gently moving the thermocouple with a pair of pliers. When the pilot light goes out as you move the thermocouple, it’s a sign that the thermocouple needs to be replaced.
If neither of these solutions solves the problem, there may be an issue with your gas line. Gas line problems are best left to a professional, so if you suspect there’s an issue with your gas line, contact a certified technician for help.
DIY Solution: How to Keep Your Pilot Light from Going Out
It’s also important to take steps to prevent your pilot light from going out in the first place. One way to do this is to make sure the area around the pilot light is clear of any obstructions. You should also check the flame regularly and keep it at a moderate height – if it gets too high or too low, the pilot light may go out.
Finally, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting the pilot light if it does go out. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your water heater running efficiently and prevent any unnecessary disruptions to your home. Lighting your pilot light on your water heater is not difficult, and if you follow the proper steps, your light should stay lit. However, if you find that your pilot light continues to go out, there may be a bigger problem with your water heater. In this case, it’s best to call a professional for help.
While there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot a pilot light that won’t stay lit, it’s best to contact a professional if the problem persists. A certified technician can help identify the source of the issue and fix it quickly and efficiently. By following the proper steps and taking preventive measures, you can help keep your pilot light from going out in the first place.
