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.
A pilot light can go out on a gas furnace or water heater for several reasons: Drafts: Strong drafts from windows, doors, or vents can blow out the pilot light. Dirty Pilot Orifice: A build-up of dirt or debris in the pilot orifice can prevent a steady flame, causing it to go out.
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.
The part is rather small and inexpensive, but replacing it requires the expertise of a professional plumber for safety reasons. Having a thermocouple replaced usually costs $125-200, while the part itself is about $15-25.
Replacing a thermocouple is a relatively easy fix that can take less than two hours. This guide reviews how to replace a thermocouple to ensure gas appliances stay in good working order, as well as how to relight a pilot light.
If so, you're probably wondering how much a maintenance visit will cost you. The cost of water heater maintenance ranges from $75 to $300+, depending on the following factors: What the plumber checks during a maintenance visit. Whether you choose a single visit or an annual maintenance plan.
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.
The most common problem with water heaters, particularly gas ones, is that they keep turning off, even though they seem to be working properly. This can be due to various issues, such as problems with the gas supply, a dirty or damaged thermocouple, a clogged pilot tube, or issues with the main control valve.
Failed Thermocouple Symptoms
The first is signs of contamination on the tube, which can include discoloration, cracks, or pinholes. Next, check the wiring for any signs of wear or corrosion like missing insulation or bare wire.
Well, it depends on the issue. But for the most part, you should call a licensed plumber for all hot water heater problems.
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.
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.
This is because the process of installing a new water heater can be quite complex and often requires the use of special tools and equipment. Additionally, the cost of labor for this type of project can be quite high.
A Faulty Thermocouple Is The Reason Your Pilot Light Keeps Going Out. A copper rod known as the "thermocouple" detects when your pilot light is burning. It is a safety feature that will shut down the heater's gas supply if your water heater pilot light goes out.
Thermocouples are relatively affordable components, typically ranging from $10 to $30, depending on the brand and quality. However, keep in mind that DIY replacement requires knowledge of furnace systems and gas connections, and improper installation can lead to safety hazards.
Dirty Thermocouple
If it's filthy shut your gas off so that the unit can cool down, then gently clean it by carefully rubbing it with fine grain sandpaper. When you're done, simply turn the gas back on and light the pilot again. If dirt or grime was the issue, your light shouldn't go out again!
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.
Clean the pilot feed tube, burner holes, and the pilot assembly tubes with compressed air or by running a zip tie down the tube(s) as needed. You also want to check the orifice. Hold it up to a light if you see light coming through the pin hole the orifice is free of debris. enjoy.
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.
The thermocouple's job is to shut a gas safety valve if the pilot light goes out. That's important because gas is always being supplied to the pilot to keep the flame lit. But if the pilot flame goes out, then the gas would still be released. After a while, the gas could collect in your home and become a health hazard.
While today's water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.
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.
The short answer is that plumbers typically service water heaters, whether it's gas or electric. An electrician may also be able to fix an electric hot water heater, assuming the problem is electrical.
The national average cost to flush a water heater is $160, but prices can vary in increments based on the tank size. A 30-gallon tank will cost between $90 and $120 on average, while a 70-gallon tank could cost anywhere between $180 and $250.