Q&A for How to Light a Water Heater

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Question

How do I light a newer model gas heater?

Community Answer

Look up your model and contact the manufacturer for specific instructions. Typically, the main difference between a modern heater and these instructions is that newer models have an electric igniter (click a button and it makes a spark) to light the pilot.

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Question

What do I call the device that I push down to make the spark to light the pilot?

Community Answer

You call it a "spark igniter."

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Question

What do I do if the pilot light keeps going out on my water heater?

Community Answer

You will probably need to replace it. Contact a supplier or even the company that manufactured your water heater.

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Question

What should I do if the pilot light will not stay lit?

Community Answer

The most likely problem is that your thermocouple needs replaced. That's the small copper tube that runs from your water heater controls to the pilot light and has an end that sticks into the flame. When the pilot light heats the tip, it generates voltage that the control box senses so it knows that the pilot light is lit. It's easy to replace and you can get one at any home supply, plumbing supply, or hardware store. Take your old one so you get the proper length. You can go a little longer, but usually not shorter,

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Question

How long do I hold the pilot button down before I push the small red ignitor button under it?

Community Answer

About 5 seconds. Turn it back on and adjust the temperature.

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Question

What should I do if the pilot light won't light for me?

Community Answer

Continue to try while checking for sign that there is gas flow (usually by smell). Odds are that the regulator has a malfunction and may need changed. This is also something easily done yourself.

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