Having trouble with your appliance or heater not working because the pilot light has gone out? Do not worry, relighting a pilot light is a simple task that you can do on your own without the need for a professional. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to properly relight a pilot light.
What is a Pilot Light?
A pilot light is a small flame that is used to ignite the main burner of a gas appliance, such as a furnace, water heater, or stove. It is a continuously burning flame that is designed to stay lit at all times so that it can quickly ignite the main burner when needed.
Why Would a Pilot Light Go Out?
There are several reasons why a pilot light may go out, including:
- Drafts: A sudden draft of air can blow out the pilot light.
- Dirty Pilot Tube: Dust, dirt, or debris may clog the pilot tube, preventing the flame from lighting.
- Thermocouple Issues: A faulty or malfunctioning thermocouple can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
- Gas Supply Issues: A disruption in the gas supply can cause the pilot light to go out.
Tools You Will Need
Before you begin the process of relighting a pilot light, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Long-Handled Lighter or Matches: You will need a long-handled lighter or matches to safely ignite the pilot light.
- Screwdriver: A screwdriver may be needed to access the pilot light assembly.
- User Manual: It is always helpful to have the user manual for your appliance to refer to specific instructions.
Steps to Relight Pilot Light
Follow these steps to successfully relight a pilot light:
Step 1: Turn Off Gas
Before attempting to relight the pilot light, make sure to turn off the gas supply to the appliance. There should be a shut-off valve located near the appliance that you can turn to the “Off” position.
Step 2: Locate Pilot Light Assembly
Using the screwdriver, remove the cover or panel that covers the pilot light assembly. The pilot light assembly is typically located near the gas control valve and will have a small knob labeled “Pilot.”
Step 3: Prepare the Pilot Light
Before attempting to relight the pilot light, give it a few minutes to dissipate any excess gas that may have built up. This will reduce the risk of a flare-up when relighting.
Step 4: Light the Pilot Light
Using the long-handled lighter or matches, carefully ignite the pilot light by pressing and holding down the pilot knob while simultaneously lighting the flame. Once the pilot light is lit, continue holding down the knob for a minute to ensure the flame stays lit.
Step 5: Verify the Pilot Light
After a minute, release the pilot knob and check to ensure that the pilot light is staying lit. If the pilot light does not stay lit, repeat the process from step 3 onwards.
Step 6: Restore Gas Supply
Once the pilot light is successfully lit and staying on, turn the gas supply back on by turning the shut-off valve to the “On” position.
Step 7: Replace Cover
Replace the cover or panel that you removed in step 2 to access the pilot light assembly. Make sure it is securely fastened to prevent any drafts that could blow out the pilot light.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you have followed these steps and are still unable to relight the pilot light, or if you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to seek professional assistance:
- Sulfur Smell: A strong sulfur smell near the gas appliance could indicate a gas leak. In this case, immediately evacuate the area and contact a professional.
- Inconsistent Pilot Light: If the pilot light frequently goes out or is inconsistent, there may be a deeper issue that requires professional attention.
- No Flame: If the pilot light does not ignite at all, there may be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed by a professional.
In Conclusion
Relighting a pilot light is a simple task that can be done with just a few tools and some basic steps. By following the instructions outlined in this guide, you can safely relight the pilot light on your gas appliance and get it back up and running in no time. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional help if you encounter any issues that you are unable to resolve on your own.
