How To Light The Pilot Light on Your Hot Water Heater

February 13, 2020

In this article, we’re going to help you light the pilot light on your hot water heater. This could come in handy if you suddenly get stuck with only cold water coming from the faucet.

Before lighting the pilot light, you have to do is determine if your hot water heater is manual or automatic.

Determining the Type of Hot Water Heater You Have

Your hot water heater is manual if it does not have an “ignition” button. If it does have the button, it is automatic.

The ignition button would be a small button located next to the “On/Off/Pilot” button or dial on your hot water heater. This is usually on a small box that’s sticking out on the side of your hot water heater.

Lighting the Pilot Light on a Manual Hot Water Heater

The first thing you’ll need is a very long lighter or even a long wooden match. You’ll remove the plate on the side of the hot water heater. Usually, this is just below the box with the buttons and dials we discussed above.

Determining the Type of Hot Water Heater You Have

When you remove that, look for a pipe or multiple pipes that lead up to a “burner.” That’s the area you’re going to light with your long lighter.

Turn the knob we discussed above now to “Off” and wait at least five minutes. Then, turn the dial over to “Pilot.” Also, adjust the temperature dial to “Low.” Finally, push down the “Pilot” button at the same time you light the burner with your long lighter.

Keep holding the “Pilot” button for 30 seconds. After that amount of time, release the button. Set your temperature back to the correct setting, and you are finished!

Lighting the Pilot Light on an Automatic Hot Water Heater

For an automatic hot water heater, the steps are basically the same. But, don’t remove any of the plates. Instead, turn the “Pilot” knob down while you hold down the “Ignition” button. You will not have to light any burner with a lighter! That’s all you have to do.

If you’re having difficulty lighting your pilot light, consider reaching out to a professional plumber. Here at Marklein Plumbing, we take pride in helping customers all over Ramona. Our team provides plumbing, water heater, sewer, and drain cleaning services. All of our technicians are fully licensed and insured.

Lighting the Pilot Light on an Automatic Hot Water Heater

Contact Marklein Plumbing today

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