If your pilot light won’t light, it usually means the gas isn't reaching the pilot tube, the igniter is dirty, or the safety sensor (thermocouple) is blocked or faulty.
Relighting a Pilot Light
To get your pilot light back on, turn the gas valve to "OFF," wait 5-10 minutes to clear any gas, and switch to "PILOT". Press and hold the reset/gas button while lighting the pilot (using an igniter button or long match). Continue holding for 30–60 seconds, then release and turn to "ON".
Yes, you can safely relight a water heater pilot light yourself. The process takes just a few minutes and involves turning the control valve to the "Pilot" position, pressing and holding the knob while engaging the igniter, and waiting for a steady flame to heat the thermocouple before turning the valve "On".
To reset a gas water heater pilot, turn the control knob to "OFF" and wait 5 minutes for gas to clear. Turn to "PILOT", press and hold the knob/button, and click the igniter button repeatedly. Continue holding the knob for 30–60 seconds, then turn it to "ON".
Steps to fix a water heater pilot light that won't stay lit:
Inspect Your Water Heater
Most water heaters will have a reset button, though some gas water heaters require you to relight the pilot light. This button may be near the unit's thermostat, but most water heaters have a removable metal panel on the side that houses the button. Use a screwdriver to remove this panel.
SIGNS OF PILOT LIGHT ISSUES
A weak or flickering light indicates dirt accumulation or blockages in the pilot light assembly. This results in hindering gas flow. The consistent extinguishing of a pilot light is another sign that indicates a faulty thermocouple or problems with the gas supply.
Pilot Light Issues: The pilot light may go out due to a blocked or damaged thermocouple. Relighting is typically inexpensive unless the thermocouple requires replacement, which can range between $120 and $300.
When the pilot light goes out on a gas water heater, the main burner stops heating, and the water in the tank will gradually turn cold. Fortunately, modern safety mechanisms prevent dangerous gas buildup by automatically shutting off the gas supply.
A common cause of pilot light going out is a blocked jet. Pilot light's jet is small and can easily get blocked with even the slightest bit of debris. The good news is that the jet can be cleaned or easily replaced by a Gas Safe Engineer.
A pilot light going out is rarely an immediate emergency, as most modern gas appliances have built-in safety valves that automatically stop gas flow. However, it requires prompt attention.
Pilot Light and Ignition Issues
High winds might blow it out if your furnace uses a pilot light, making your furnace struggle to reignite and heat your home. Modern furnaces with electronic ignitions can also face issues during strong winds, forcing them to use more energy to start up or stay operational.
The main issues that keep a pilot light from staying lit are a dirty or damaged thermocouple, a clogged or damaged gas tube, or a faulty pilot control knob. If the thermocouple is damaged or dirty, it won't keep the valve open.
Re-lighting a furnace light is a very simple process and only requires one item; a long match or lighter to safely relight the pilot flame. The length of the match is crucial since it's not advisable to stand very close to the flame when it catches.
No, your house will not fill with gas. Almost all modern gas appliances (furnaces, water heaters, and modern stoves) are built with a failsafe safety device called a thermocouple or thermopile.
Pilot lights will occasionally go out. Sometimes the cause is easily resolved, such as running out of propane or turning off the gas. However, if the pilot light needs to be relit more than once per season, it should be inspected by a qualified service technician.
Do not turn your natural gas back on yourself. We will also relight the pilots and service natural gas appliances for proper operation. Check your water heater and furnace vents.
The average fee to replace a light fitting is£65. You can expect to pay an electrician an average hourly rate of£55. We recommend contacting a local electrician to receive an accurate quote for your job.
Yes, if the pilot light goes out, you will often smell a distinct "rotten egg" or sulfur-like odor. Gas companies deliberately add this chemical (mercaptan) to natural gas and propane so that leaks are immediately detectable.
DIY Cleaning: If the issue is a dirty thermocouple or pilot orifice that you can safely clean yourself, the cost is essentially free. Professional Thermocouple Replacement: If the thermocouple is faulty and needs to be replaced by a professional, costs typically range between $100 – $250, including parts and labor.
A: Ideally, you should clean the pilot light at least once every 6 to 12 months, or before you start using your heating system for the season. Q: What tools are necessary for cleaning the pilot light? A: You will need a can of compressed air, a soft-bristle brush, and a dry cloth.
Yes, you can safely reset an electric water heater yourself by turning off the power at your breaker box, removing the access panel on the unit, and pressing the red safety reset button. However, if the button trips frequently, it points to a faulty part that needs professional replacement.
Relighting a pilot light is a straightforward process. First, turn the gas valve dial to "OFF" and wait five to ten minutes for any gas to dissipate. Then, turn the dial to "PILOT," press and hold the button or knob, and click the igniter until the pilot flame is lit.