Are you having trouble getting hot water in your home? It could be due to a malfunctioning hot water heater. One common issue with hot water heaters is a pilot light that has gone out. If this is the case, you can easily relight it on your own by following these simple steps.
Step 1: Turn off the Gas
Before attempting to light the pilot light, make sure the gas valve is turned off. Look for a knob near the bottom of the heater and turn it to the “off” position.
Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light
Next, locate the pilot light assembly. It’s usually located near the bottom of the tank and can be identified by a small tube that runs from the gas valve to the assembly.
Step 3: Remove the Cover
Using a screwdriver, remove the cover from the pilot light assembly. This will give you access to the pilot light and the control knob.
Step 4: Turn the Control Knob to “Pilot”
Once the cover is removed, turn the control knob to the “pilot” setting. This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light.
Step 5: Light the Pilot Light
Hold a long lighter or match near the pilot light while pressing the control knob down. This will ignite the gas and light the pilot light.
Step 6: Hold the Control Knob Down
Once the pilot light is lit, continue to hold the control knob down for 30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up. This will ensure that the gas continues to flow to the pilot light.
Step 7: Turn the Control Knob to “On”
After 30 seconds, turn the control knob to the “on” position. This will allow gas to flow to the main burner and heat the water in the tank.
Step 8: Replace the Cover
Finally, replace the cover on the pilot light assembly and turn the gas valve back on. You should now have hot water!
In conclusion, lighting a hot water heater is a simple task that can be done on your own. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself or if you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s best to call a professional plumber. Remember to always put safety first and follow these steps carefully to avoid accidents.