If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your water heater very often. But when it stops working, it can be a major inconvenience. One of the most common problems with water heaters is a faulty pilot light. If your pilot light goes out, you’ll need to know how to relight it. Fortunately, it’s a relatively easy process. In this article, we’ll show you how to turn off the pilot light on your water heater. We’ll also provide some tips on how to troubleshoot common problems with pilot lights.
Before you turn off the pilot light on your water heater, you need to gather a few tools. These include a Phillips head screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a lighter or match. Once you have your tools, you can begin the process of turning off the pilot light. First, locate the gas control valve on your water heater. This valve is usually located near the bottom of the water heater, and it has a knob that you can turn. Turn the knob to the “off” position. Next, locate the pilot light assembly. This assembly is usually located near the top of the water heater, and it has a small flame that is burning. Use the pliers to carefully turn off the gas supply to the pilot light. Finally, use the lighter or match to light the pilot light. Once the pilot light is lit, turn the gas supply back on. The pilot light should stay lit, and your water heater should start working again.
If you’re having trouble turning off the pilot light on your water heater, there are a few things you can try. First, make sure that the gas supply to the water heater is turned on. Next, check the pilot light assembly to make sure that it is clean and free of debris. If the pilot light assembly is dirty, you can clean it with a soft brush. Finally, try relighting the pilot light. If you’re still having trouble, you may need to call a qualified technician for help.
Safely Accessing the Water Heater
Before attempting any maintenance on a water heater, it is crucial to ensure your safety by following these steps:
- **Turn off the gas supply:** Locate the gas valve connected to the water heater and turn it to the “off” position. This will cut off the flow of gas to the heater, preventing any potential ignition.
- **Turn off the water supply:** Close the main water valve to the water heater. This will prevent water from flowing through the heater when the pilot light is turned off.
- **Check the temperature:** Allow the water heater to cool down for at least 30 minutes before proceeding. Hot water can cause burns if it unexpectedly flows from the heater while the pilot light is being extinguished.
- **Ensure proper ventilation:** Open a window or turn on a fan in the area where the water heater is located. This will create proper airflow and reduce the risk of carbon monoxide build-up.
**Caution:** Do not attempt to access the water heater if you suspect a gas leak or if the water heater is operating abnormally. Contact a licensed plumber immediately in such cases.
Locating the Pilot Light
Here’s a detailed guide to help you locate the pilot light on your water heater:
- **Identify your water heater type:** Determine if you have a gas or electric water heater. Gas water heaters have pilot lights, while electric water heaters do not.
- **Locate the burner assembly:** The pilot light is typically located near the burner assembly at the bottom of the water heater. Look for a small, round or cylindrical opening with a blue or orange flame.
- **Check the access panel:** Some water heaters have an access panel that provides convenient access to the pilot light. Remove the screws holding the panel in place to expose the pilot light and gas valve.
- **Follow the gas line:** If you cannot find the pilot light by looking at the burner assembly or access panel, trace the gas line from the gas supply to the water heater. The pilot light will be located near the point where the gas line connects to the water heater.
- **Refer to the manufacturer’s manual:** If you are still unable to locate the pilot light, consult the manufacturer’s manual for your specific water heater model. It will provide detailed instructions on how to find the pilot light.
Here’s a table summarizing the possible locations of the pilot light based on the water heater type:
| Water Heater Type | Pilot Light Location |
|---|---|
| Gas Water Heater | Near the burner assembly at the bottom of the water heater |
| Electric Water Heater | Not applicable |
Shutting Off the Gas Line
Before proceeding, ensure that you have the necessary tools and safety gear, including a wrench, pliers, and leather gloves. Follow the steps below:
- Locate the gas shut-off valve: It is typically located near the water heater or outside your home. It is usually a yellow-handled lever or round knob.
- Turn off the gas supply: Move the lever to the “off” position or turn the knob clockwise until it stops. You may hear a slight hissing sound as the gas escapes from the line.
- Check for leaks: Apply soapy water to the gas line connections using a brush or sponge. Bubbles indicate a leak that needs to be repaired before proceeding.
- Disconnect the gas line: Using a wrench, carefully disconnect the gas line from the water heater. Check the connection for any remaining gas leaks using soapy water.
- Cap the gas line: To prevent gas leakage, cap the end of the gas line using a gas cap, available at hardware stores.
| Safety Precautions |
|---|
| Ensure the gas line is completely turned off before performing any work. |
| Wear appropriate safety gear and use proper tools. |
| Call a licensed plumber if you encounter any difficulties or detect gas leaks. |
Extinguishing the Pilot Flame
4. Relighting the Pilot Flame
Once the pilot flame has been extinguished, it will need to be re-lit. The following steps should be followed to do this:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Turn the gas control knob to the “OFF” position. | |
| 2. Wait five minutes for the gas to dissipate. | |
| 3. Turn the gas control knob to the “PILOT” position. | |
| 4. Push and hold the ignition button while simultaneously pressing the reset button. | |
| 5. Hold the ignition button for 30-60 seconds or until the pilot flame ignites. | |
| 6. Release the ignition button and reset button. | |
| 7. Turn the gas control knob to the “ON” position. |
If the pilot flame fails to ignite after following these steps, the gas supply may be turned off or there may be a problem with the thermocouple. In this case, it is recommended to contact a qualified gas technician for assistance.
Depressing the Reset Button
After lighting the pilot light, it’s crucial to depress the reset button to ensure continuous gas flow to the main burner. Here’s a detailed guide on how to depress the reset button:
1. Allow Gas to Flow for a Minute
After lighting the pilot light, keep the control knob depressed for about a minute. This allows gas to flow and fill the gas valve.
2. Locate the Reset Button
Locate the reset button on the gas valve. It’s typically a small, red or black button near the control knob.
3. Depress the Reset Button
Once the gas has flowed for a minute, quickly depress and hold the reset button. Keep it depressed for 15-20 seconds or as directed in your water heater’s manual.
4. Release the Control Knob
While holding the reset button, slowly release the control knob. The main burner will ignite automatically.
5. Relight the Pilot if Necessary
In some cases, the main burner may not ignite immediately. If that happens, release the reset button, wait 5 minutes, and repeat steps 1 through 4. If the pilot light still fails to ignite, refer to your water heater’s manual or contact a qualified technician.
**Note:**
| Troubleshooting Tips | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot light won’t stay lit | Faulty thermocouple/thermopile | Replace the thermocouple/thermopile |
| Reset button won’t stay depressed | Debris or damage | Clean or replace the reset button |
| Main burner won’t ignite | Blocked gas line | Clear the gas line |
What Is a Pilot Light?
A pilot light is a small flame that continuously burns in older gas water heaters to ignite the main burner when hot water is needed.
How To Turn Off Pilot Light On Water Heater
- Turn the gas control knob to the “Off” position.
- Wait 5 minutes for the pilot light to cool.
- Locate the reset button on the gas control valve.
- Press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds.
- Release the reset button and turn the gas control knob to the “Pilot” position.
-
Relighting the Pilot Light (if desired)
- Push in and hold the gas control knob while simultaneously pressing the ignition button.
- Hold the knob in for about 30 seconds, or until the pilot light ignites.
- Once the pilot light is lit, release the knob and ignition button.
- Turn the gas control knob to the desired setting.
Tips
- If the pilot light does not ignite after several attempts, there may be a problem with the gas supply or the ignition system.
- If you are unable to turn off the pilot light, call a qualified gas technician.
- It is important to have your water heater serviced regularly to ensure that the pilot light is functioning properly.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Pilot light will not stay lit | Check the gas supply. Make sure the gas valve is open and that there is gas flowing to the water heater. |
| Pilot light ignites but goes out after a few seconds | The thermocouple may be faulty. Replace the thermocouple. |
| Pilot light will not ignite | Check the ignition system. Make sure the igniter is sparking and that the gas valve is open. |
Monitoring for Gas Leaks
It is crucial to check for gas leaks before relighting the pilot light. This will ensure the safety of your home and family.
Follow these steps to monitor for gas leaks:
- Turn off the gas supply to the water heater. This is usually a valve located on the gas line near the water heater.
- Apply a soapy water solution to all gas connections. This includes the gas valve, pilot light assembly, and any other connections.
- Open the gas supply valve slowly.
- Observe the soapy water solution for bubbles. Bubbles indicate a gas leak.
- If you find a gas leak, turn off the gas supply immediately. Contact a qualified gas technician to repair the leak.
Here is a table summarizing the signs and symptoms of a gas leak:
| Sign or Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Rotten egg smell | Gas leak |
| Hissing or whistling sound | Gas leak |
| Bubbles in soapy water solution | Gas leak |
| Headaches, nausea, or dizziness | Carbon monoxide poisoning |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Lighting the Pilot Light
If your pilot light is not lighting, check that the gas supply is turned on and that there is no debris blocking the burner tube.
2. Pilot Light Stays Lit
If the pilot light stays lit but the burner does not ignite, check that the thermocouple is properly seated on the burner flame.
3. Burner Ignites Intermittently
If the burner ignites intermittently, check that the gas valve is fully open and that there are no leaks in the gas line.
4. Burner Does Not Stay Lit
If the burner does not stay lit, check that the thermocouple is securely fastened to the burner and that the pilot light is properly adjusted.
5. Water Temperature Fluctuates
If the water temperature fluctuates, check that the thermostat is set correctly and that there is no sediment build-up in the tank.
6. Leaking Water Heater
If your water heater is leaking, check for cracks or damage to the tank or pipes. You may need to replace the water heater.
7. No Hot Water
If you have no hot water, check that the water heater is turned on and that the gas supply is not blocked. You may also need to check the thermostat or replace the heating element.
8. Loud Noises from the Water Heater
If your water heater is making loud noises, it could indicate a problem with the heating element, the burner, or the pressure relief valve. It is recommended to have a professional inspect and resolve the issue promptly to avoid potential safety hazards.
Safety Precautions
Before attempting to turn off the pilot light, ensure your safety by following these precautions:
- Wear appropriate clothing (long sleeves, pants)
- Have a working fire extinguisher nearby
- Open windows or doors to ventilate the area
Locate the Pilot Light Assembly
Identify the gas control valve near the bottom of the water heater. The pilot light assembly typically includes a small flame or LED indicator.
Turn Off the Gas Supply
Locate the gas valve and turn it clockwise to the “Off” position. This will stop the flow of gas to the pilot light.
Wait for the Flame to Extinguish
Allow the pilot light flame to fully extinguish before proceeding. This may take several minutes.
Turn Off the Ignition Switch
If the pilot light is ignited by an electronic ignition system, locate the ignition switch near the pilot light assembly. Turn the switch to the “Off” position.
Remove the Pilot Light Assembly
Unscrew the pilot light assembly from the gas control valve. Be careful not to damage the assembly or surrounding components.
Inspect and Clean the Assembly
Examine the pilot light assembly for any blockages or debris. If necessary, clean the assembly with a soft brush or compressed air.
Reinstall the Pilot Light Assembly
Carefully screw the pilot light assembly back onto the gas control valve. Hand-tighten the assembly firmly.
Relight the Pilot Light
Once the pilot light assembly is reinstalled, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight the pilot light.
Calling a Professional for Assistance (when necessary)
In certain situations, it is recommended to seek professional assistance from a licensed plumber or gas technician. These situations include:
- If you are not comfortable performing the steps yourself
- If you suspect a gas leak or other safety issue
- If the water heater is still not operating correctly after turning off and relighting the pilot light
Ensuring Safety During the Process
Stepping away from the water heater as soon as any gas odor is detected is advised. Additionally, it is recommended not to smoke during the process or permit any nearby open flames, as gas leaks can be ignited and result in a fire or explosion. For added safety, it is recommended to ventilate the area thoroughly by opening windows or doors to disperse any accumulated gas.
When a gas odor is detected, it is crucial to refrain from turning on or off any electrical switches or appliances, as even a small spark can ignite the gas and cause an explosion or fire. For the same reason, it is important to avoid using a telephone in the vicinity of a suspected gas leak.
Should the water heater be located in a confined place, it is strongly recommended to wear a mask or breathing apparatus that provides respiratory protection from potential gas inhalation. Furthermore, it is advised to keep a fire extinguisher nearby for immediate use in case of an emergency.
It is crucial to understand that attempting to repair a gas leak on your own is not recommended. Instead, contacting a qualified professional should be prioritized to safely resolve the issue. This decision ensures that the gas leak is effectively addressed without putting yourself at unnecessary risk.
To avoid accidental ignition during the process of inspecting or servicing the water heater, it is essential to leave the control knob in the “OFF” position at all times.
Maintaining a safe and well-ventilated work environment is paramount. Regularly inspecting the water heater for any gas leaks or potential hazards is advisable to prevent any unexpected incidents from occurring.
If an individual experiences symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention, as these symptoms may indicate carbon monoxide poisoning.
Finally, it is advised to keep a fire extinguisher within convenient reach of the water heater for quick access in case of an emergency.
| Safety Precaution | Description |
|---|---|
| Ventilate the area | Open windows or doors to disperse gas |
| Do not smoke or use open flames | Gas leaks can ignite easily |
| Do not use electrical switches or appliances | Can create sparks that can ignite gas |
| Wear respiratory protection | Protect yourself from gas inhalation |
| Keep a fire extinguisher nearby | For immediate use in an emergency |
| Contact a qualified professional | Do not attempt to repair gas leaks yourself |
| Keep control knob in “OFF” position | Prevent accidental ignition |
| Inspect water heater regularly | For gas leaks or potential hazards |
| Seek medical attention for poisoning symptoms | Nausea, dizziness, difficulty breathing |
| Keep a fire extinguisher nearby | For quick access in an emergency |
How To Turn Off Pilot Light On Water Heater
A pilot light is a small flame that burns constantly to ignite the main burner when you turn on your water heater. If you need to turn off the pilot light, follow these steps:
- Turn off the gas supply to the water heater.
- Locate the pilot light assembly. It is usually located at the bottom of the water heater tank.
- Push the reset button on the pilot light assembly. This will stop the flow of gas to the pilot light.
- Wait a few minutes for the pilot light to cool down.
- Turn the gas supply back on.
- Relight the pilot light according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you are having trouble turning off the pilot light, call a qualified gas technician.
People Also Ask
How do I know if the pilot light on my water heater is out?
If the pilot light is out, the water heater will not produce any hot water. You can check if the pilot light is out by looking through the small window on the front of the water heater. If the flame is not visible, the pilot light is out.
Why did the pilot light on my water heater go out?
There are several reasons why the pilot light on a water heater might go out, including:
- The gas supply to the water heater has been turned off.
- The thermocouple is faulty.
- The pilot light assembly is dirty.
- There is a draft in the area where the water heater is located.
