Step-by-Step Guide: How to Relight Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light

There are a few signs that your water heater pilot light has gone out. The most obvious is a sudden lack of hot water. If you turn on the tap and only get cold water, there’s a good chance the pilot light has gone out. Another indication is if you hear the water heater trying to ignite but don’t hear the familiar “whoosh” sound of the burner firing up. Some water heaters have a small viewing window or access panel where you can visually inspect the pilot light. If you look inside and don’t see the small blue flame, it’s likely out. In addition, many modern water heaters have a warning light or error code display that will signal when the pilot light is out or there’s an issue with the gas supply.

Safety is key when relighting a pilot light, so it’s important to wait at least 5 to 10 minutes after turning off the gas supply before attempting to light it again. This allows any lingering gas to dissipate from the area around the pilot light, reducing the risk of an accidental fire or explosion. If your water heater is in a small, enclosed space, you may want to wait even longer, around 15 minutes, to ensure all the gas has cleared. It’s also a good idea to check for any strong gas odors during this time. If you still smell gas after waiting, do not attempt to light the pilot light—instead, leave the area immediately and contact a professional.

To safely and efficiently relight your water heater’s pilot light, you don’t need much in the way of tools. In most cases, all you’ll need is a long lighter or matches to ignite the flame. If your water heater has an automatic igniter, you won’t even need that. However, it’s always a good idea to have a flashlight handy, especially if your water heater is located in a dimly lit area. Some models also have a small access panel that may require a screwdriver to open. Beyond that, there’s not much else required. Most importantly, ensure you have a safe and steady source of light for the pilot light, and if you’re ever unsure, consult your water heater’s manual or call a professional.

If your pilot light keeps going out after you’ve relit it, the problem could be with the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a safety device that detects whether the pilot light is burning. If it’s dirty or faulty, it won’t correctly sense the flame, causing the gas valve to shut off even though the pilot light is lit. A clogged pilot tube is another common reason. Over time, debris can accumulate in the tube, preventing a steady flow of gas to the pilot light. Low gas pressure or an intermittent gas supply can also cause this issue. If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting or the pilot light continues to go out despite your efforts, it’s best to call an HVAC professional to inspect the system.

In most cases, relighting a pilot light is perfectly safe, provided you follow the proper precautions. Make sure to turn off the gas supply before starting and wait a minimum of 5 to 10 minutes to let any gas clear from the area. Always check for any gas odors before attempting to light the pilot light—if you smell gas, do not proceed. However, if you’re uncomfortable working with gas or if your water heater is older and has recurring pilot light issues, it’s always a good idea to call in a licensed HVAC technician. They can not only relight the pilot light for you but also check for any underlying problems with your system.

Routine maintenance is essential to keep your water heater running efficiently and extend its lifespan. At a minimum, you should flush the tank once a year to remove sediment that can build up and reduce the unit’s efficiency. You’ll also want to inspect the water heater pilot light to make sure it’s functioning properly. Check the anode rod every 2-3 years and replace it if it’s corroded. Test the pressure relief valve annually, and ensure that the burner area is free of dust and debris. Regular maintenance, including making sure the pilot light is in good working condition, can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

While it’s impossible to guarantee that your pilot light will never go out, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the likelihood. Regular maintenance is key—keeping the thermocouple clean and ensuring the pilot light assembly is free of dust and debris can help maintain a consistent flame. If your water heater is located in a drafty area, consider installing a draft shield to prevent sudden gusts from blowing out the flame. You should also monitor your gas supply to ensure there are no issues, such as low pressure. Addressing these small issues can go a long way in preventing the pilot light from going out unexpectedly.

Although relighting a pilot light is generally something you can handle yourself, there are times when it’s best to call in a professional. If you smell gas, don’t try to relight the pilot light—contact your local gas company or an HVAC technician immediately. If the pilot light keeps going out despite your efforts to relight it, or if you’re unsure about handling gas appliances, it’s always safer to get help. A professional can diagnose the issue, whether it’s a faulty thermocouple, gas valve problem, or something else. Additionally, if your water heater is older and has frequent issues with the pilot light, an HVAC technician can assess whether it’s time for repairs or even replacement.