Gas water heaters enjoy high popularity because they are lightweight, cost-effective, and use considerably less energy than electric water heaters. They also heat the water in a pretty short time and have a high recovery rate and FHR (referred to the number of gallons a water heater can supply during the first hour). A gas water heater consists of various components: the tank, dip tube, discharge pipe, gas burner, exhaust flue, drain valve, and pressure relief valve. Knowing how to light a pilot light on a water heater is vital because you will not receive hot water unless you switch it on. What is its role in a gas water heater, where is it located, and how can you switch it on? Continue reading to know.
What is the role of the pilot light?
A pilot light refers to a blue-colored flame that ensures the heating process of all appliances that run on gas (whether natural, propane or any other). Once you turn on your machine, it releases the gas to the burner, which the light ignites to provide heat. The pilot light should always remain lit in gas heaters because it ignites the burner and heats the water. It is entirely safe to keep your light on at all times, but it is better to call a professional to handle it properly if it goes off.
Where to find it in the heater?
You will find the pilot light at the base of the heater system in most gas water heaters, just below the control valve. To reach it, you must open the access panel to the burner chamber. The light tube should have a consistent blue flame at all times because if it doesn’t, there could be a problem. When the light goes out, the thermocouple (a thermoelectric device) shuts off the gas safety valve because the heater releases the gasses into the chamber all the time. Without the flame, the gas could pose a danger to your health and property.
What causes the pilot flame to stop working?
A pilot flame could stop working because of various reasons, but a faulty thermocouple is the main reason in most cases. A dirty thermocouple caused by carbon buildup over time or a bent one that does not touch the flame directly will cause the light to go out. A dirty pilot tube could also stop the pilot from working correctly. A faulty electrical wiring system or issues in the main control valve could also be other reasons behind this problem. Sometimes, the light could also go out because of a change in the gas pressure.
How to switch on a pilot light?
You should start by removing the inner and outer panels at your heater’s base and locating the gas knob. Then adjust it to “pilot.” The board may even have a separate bright red button for pilot mode. Following that, you must press down the gas knob and use the ignitor button to light the flame simultaneously. It is advisable to hold down the gas knob for a minute to ensure the light stays lit. Once you light the flame, listen closely for a wheezing sound, indicating the lighting of the main burner.
Even if you know how to light a pilot light on a water heater, it is advisable to call a professional to check the heating system for any other underlying issues. An efficient gas water heater will provide you with an uninterrupted hot water supply, while a faulty one can be problematic in various ways.
