How much does it cost to replace a pilot light on a hot water heater?

Author: Abby Douglas  |  Last update: Saturday, March 7, 2026

Water Heater Pilot Light Replacement Replacing the pilot light in a water heater should cost between $75 and $150. The pilot light might go out for various reasons on your gas water heater. It's rare for a heater to require a full replacement of the pilot light assembly.

How much does a plumber charge to light a pilot light?

The Cost of Relighting the Pilot Light

A plumber can help reignite the pilot light. They will charge you an hourly fee of $40 to $150. This is usually a fairly brief project, and may just take an hour. You may wish to save yourself a few dollars by relighting the pilot light yourself.

How much does it cost to replace a hot water heater igniter?

Igniter: $75 to $350.

Who do you call if your pilot light goes out?

If after following the proper steps you still can't get your pilot light to stay lit, call an HVAC pro for a furnace repair.

Who fixes pilot lights on a water heater?

If you are having trouble getting your water heater pilot light on, or you can't get it to stay lit for long, rely on a plumbing professional for water heater repair, maintenance, and replacement services.

How much does it cost to repair a water heater?

Who to call for a water heater pilot light?

Well, it depends on the issue. But for the most part, you should call a licensed plumber for all hot water heater problems.

Can I relight the pilot light by myself on the water heater?

While holding the gas control knob, repeatedly press the ignite button until the flame stays lit. While holding in the gas control knob, press the ignitor button (this is typically a square button and should be clearly labeled). Click the ignitor button about one time every second. You should hear it click.

How much does it cost to have a pilot light on?

A fireplace pilot light might consume about 24,000 BTU per day, adding up to about 720,000 BTU a month, or 7.2 therms. If you're paying $1 per therm, then leaving the pilot light on all the time throughout a month might cost you around $7 per month and $84 per year.

Will the gas company come light my pilot?

Absolutely! We can send a gas service technician to light your pilot, and conduct a gas safety check of your gas fireplace or any other gas appliance to ensure your safety. You can schedule an appointment by logging into Your Account and selecting the Service Requests tab.

Will gas leak if pilot light goes out?

If the pilot should go out, gas is immediately shut off to the main burner, however, there is still a small amount of gas that will continue to flow to the oven pilot. All free standing pilots are approved by the American Gas Association. There is not enough leakage to create a hazard.

How much is labor to replace a water heater?

In general, plumbers cost $45 to $200 per hour, while electricians cost $50 to $100 per hour. Expect the following average price ranges for labor alone: Replacing a tank-style water heater: $150–$450. Replacing a tankless water heater: $600–$1,850.

How much does it cost to relight a water heater?

Replacing the pilot light in a water heater should cost between $75 and $150. The pilot light might go out for various reasons on your gas water heater. It's rare for a heater to require a full replacement of the pilot light assembly.

How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my water heater?

There's really just one telltale sign of letting you know when the thermocouple isn't working, and that's when the pilot light won't stay lit. If you experience this problem, it's important to have your thermocouple assessed as soon as possible.

Is a home inspector required to ignite a pilot light?

The inspector is not required to: light or ignite pilot flames. measure the capacity, temperature, age, life expectancy or adequacy of the water heater.

How can plumbers charge so much?

Plumbing Requires Parts

Unless you're calling us over to simply unclog a drain, we'll need some “stuff” to fix your plumbing problem: pipe, fittings, hardware, appliances (like a garbage disposal), putty, valves, and so on. The costs of parts and materials get factored in to your bill.

Who can relight a pilot light?

The Short Answer Is: It is generally safe for a homeowner to relight a furnace pilot light, as long as they follow proper precautions and guidelines. To do it yourself, first, turn off the furnace's gas supply and wait for a few minutes to allow any lingering gas to dissipate.

Is it hard to relight a water heater?

Relighting the pilot light can be done in a matter of minutes, regardless of whether your water heater uses an electronic ignition or needs to be manually lit.

Should I call the gas company for Orange flame?

If the flame continues to burn yellow or orange, this could be a more serious problem that requires professional help.

Is a pilot light going out an emergency?

Safety Considerations for Pilot Light Issues

If you smell gas or notice unusual sounds when your indicator flame goes out, leave your home immediately and contact emergency services. These signs could indicate serious safety concerns that require immediate professional attention.

How much does it cost to repair a pilot light?

Igniter or Pilot Light Repair: For gas heaters, igniter or pilot light issues are common. These repairs usually cost between $150 and $300. A complete replacement may push the cost closer to $400. Heat Exchanger Repair or Replacement: The heat exchanger is crucial for transferring heat from combustion gases to the air.

Should I worry if the pilot light goes out?

Is It Dangerous if The Pilot Light Goes Out? The worry here is that when a pilot goes out, the gas valve that supplies the fuel for the pilot flame could still be pumping gas. This can mean a buildup of gas, and when the pilot is relit or relights itself, it could result in a very serious explosion.

Can I light my pilot light myself?

Can I relight my pilot light myself? Yes, it's safe for homeowners to relight their gas furnace pilot light as long as they follow proper safety steps. However, if you're unsure or uncomfortable, it's best to contact a furnace technician for help.

Who to call to relight a pilot light?

If you are in need of an earlier appointment, a gas plumber, handyman, or maintenance person can also perform a pilot relight.

Will gas shut off if pilot light goes out on water heater?

If the pilot light goes out, the gas will stop flowing and your unit will shut off. When heating is required, the gas control valve releases the gas into the main burner where the pilot light ignites the gas. Apart from lighting the main burner, the pilot light also provides warmth to the thermocouple.

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