How to Relight a Water Heater’s Pilot Light
Is
your water heater's pilot light constantly going out? Don't worry, there are
several reasons why this might be happening, and understanding the most common
causes can help you find a long-term solution. Let's explore some
troubleshooting tips so you can enjoy hot water whenever you need it.
Read More: Pool Lights & GFCI: Solve the Tripping Mystery
Gas Pressure Changes
The pilot light of a water heater can be affected by changes in gas pressure. Normally, gas pressure remains constant unless there is some sort of intervention. Even then, the pressure should return to normal fairly quickly. By relighting your pilot light, you can reset the system, but in some cases, gas pressure becomes a persistent problem. This usually indicates an issue outside of the water heater, possibly with the external gas lines.
Read More: How Long Do LED Pool Lights Last?
Issues
with the Thermocouple/Thermopile
The main function of a water heater's
thermocouple/thermopile is to supply power to the gas valve and shut off the
gas flow if the pilot light goes out. However, if the thermocouple/thermopile
itself is broken, the automatic safety valve in the gas valve won't receive
power, and the pilot light won't stay on when the knob is released.
Follow For More: Austin Delatorre
Drafts
When investigating a pilot light that won't stay
on, be mindful of drafts that may blow out the flame. Sometimes, an open door
(if your water heater is located in the garage or a utility space that opens to
the outside) can be enough to cause a gust of wind that extinguishes that
small, delicate flame.
Read More: How Long Do LED Pool Lights Last?
Lighting a water heater's pilot light requires a
continuous flow of air. If that air circulation is restricted due to the
positioning of a newly installed water heater or something blocking an existing
unit, the pilot light may struggle to stay on. Imagine a water heater squeezed
into a tiny closet or boxes full of yard sale leftovers stacked around the
appliance. With an obstructed air supply, your water heater may be unable to
properly burn fuel, potentially leading to unburned fuel and/or the release of carbon
monoxide into your home. This is a dangerous situation. If you suspect a lack
of air is causing issues with your pilot light, it is important to consult a
technician to assess the positioning of your water heater or otherwise resolve
the airflow problem before attempting to relight the pilot light.
Comments
Post a Comment