One of our customers, Theresa, asked us to post some simple instructions on how to safely relight the pilot light on a gas water heater. Theresa, thanks for the suggestion – we’re happy to help.
Step 1
Turn the gas valve’s dial to “Off” and wait a few minutes.
Step 2
Turn the gas valve to “Pilot” and push the valve button down (or, instead, if there is a red button beside the valve, push it down). Hold it down to start the flow of gas through the gas supply tube.
Step 3
Keep holding the button down and wait for the indicator to light. Some water heaters require manual lighting. If so, use a barbecue lighter to light the gas at the end of the supply tube.
Step 4
After the pilot is lit, keep holding down the control button for another minute or so. Then, release the control button.
Step 5
If the pilot stays lit after you release the control button, turn the dial to “on”.
OR
If the pilot goes out again or it won’t light, begin at Step 1 again and repeat the process.
It’s okay to try this a couple of times. But, if your pilot won’t light or remain lit after a couple of tries, the best idea is to call a professional to help you.
