Water Heater Pilot Light Troubleshooting Guide

Close-up of water heater pilot light.

How many times have you looked forward to a soothing hot shower and instead got a chilly surprise? Not only is it annoying to deal with but it’s also a little worrying to think that you may have a busted water heater in your house! The good news is that, more often than not, it’s just a hiccup with the pilot light. 

For over 65 years, Big Brothers Home Services in Salt Lake City has been the go-to source for plumbing and water heating services. Let’s dive into some typical pilot light issues and their quick fixes. And if anything looks too tricky to DIY, don’t worry — our water heater repair services are just a phone call away!

Your Water Heater’s Pilot Light

The pilot light on your water heater is a small flame that ignites the unit’s gas burner, allowing it to heat the water in the tank. No pilot light means no hot water. 

Typically, checking if your pilot light is on is a straightforward process. All you have to do is remove the access panel on your unit and look for the small blue flame. No flame? Time to troubleshoot!

Common Pilot Light Issues and DIY Fixes

Before you call the pros for water heater repairs, there are a few simple steps you can perform yourself to troubleshoot your hot water heater’s pilot light issues:

  • Inspect the Pilot Light: Make sure it’s actually lit. If not, try relighting it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Check the Thermocouple: This safety device turns off the gas if the pilot light goes out. If it’s loose, it might need tightening.
  • Examine the Gas Supply: Check that your water heater’s gas valve is fully open and that there are no interruptions in your gas supply.
  • Clean the Pilot Light Opening: Sometimes, a simple buildup of dirt can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.

Remember, while these steps are easy to handle, anything more complicated should definitely be left to the professionals for your safety and the efficiency of your home’s water heating system. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with these steps, it’s wise to contact a plumber for reliable water heater servicing.

When to Call the Professionals

While some minor pilot light issues can be handled on your own, more significant problems require professional intervention. Here are a few signs that it’s time to call Big Brothers Home Services:

  • Persistent Pilot Outages: If your pilot light doesn’t stay lit despite your best efforts, the thermocouple might be faulty or positioned incorrectly. Our technicians can replace or adjust this component.
  • Gas Smell: If you smell gas around your water heater, shut off the gas supply immediately and call us. This could indicate a serious gas leak that needs immediate attention.
  • No Hot Water After Troubleshooting: If you’ve tried all the DIY fixes and still don’t have hot water, there might be a more complex issue at play. Our team can diagnose and resolve deeper mechanical problems swiftly and safely.

Comprehensive Water Heater Services in Salt Lake City, UT

Big Brothers Home Services doesn’t just fix problems; we provide peace of mind. Whether you need a simple repair or a full water heater replacement, our team is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and dedication to get the job done right. We understand the challenges of maintaining a comfortable home or business, and we strive to provide services that meet not only your needs but also your expectations for safety and quality.

Contact Us for Water Heater Services in Salt Lake City and the Surrounding Areas

Don’t let water heater issues put a chill on your daily comfort. Contact Big Brothers Home Services today for all your water heater needs — from emergency repairs to routine maintenance. We’re here to make sure that your water stays hot!