Hot Water Tank Pilot Light Keeps Going Out? Here’s What To Do!
If your gas water heater pilot light keeps going out, you could be left without hot water when you need it most.
The pilot light is essential for heating your water, so when it goes out, you need to get it fixed quickly.
In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of a pilot light going out, offer some temporary fixes, and explain how Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting can help with permanent solutions for gas water tank repair in Calgary.
Common Reasons Your Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
Thermocouple Problems
A faulty or dirty thermocouple is one of the most common pilot light problems. The thermocouple is a safety device that detects whether the pilot light is on. If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple shuts off the gas supply to prevent a leak.
However, if you have a dirty, misaligned, or broken thermocouple, it may cut off the gas supply even when the pilot light is on. This could be why your pilot light won’t stay lit.
The thermocouple senses heat from the pilot light flame for it to work. If the thermocouple can’t detect the heat from the pilot light, it will shut down the gas, and the pilot light will go out.
Drafts or Airflow Issues
Another common reason for a pilot light going out is drafts or airflow disruptions. If your water heater is located near a door, window, or vent, sudden gusts of air can blow out the pilot light.
This problem is more common in older homes or in rooms with poor ventilation.
If you notice that the pilot light goes out during windy days or when nearby windows or doors are open, it’s likely that airflow is the issue.
Dirty Pilot Tube
The pilot light is fueled by gas that flows through a small pilot tube. Over time, dirt, dust, or other debris can clog the gas line tube, preventing the gas from reaching the pilot light properly. This results in a weak flame that may not stay lit.
A dirty gas line will need to be cleaned or repaired to restore normal function.
Stop-Gap Fixes for a Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
While waiting for a plumber or if you think this is a one-time thing, there are a few steps you can try to temporarily fix the issue. These solutions might help get your pilot light going again.
Relight the Pilot Light
If the pilot light has gone out, you can try relighting it. Most water heaters have instructions on the side of the unit that explain how a pilot light ignites safely. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully.
Warning: If you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the pilot light. Instead, turn off the gas supply, leave the area, and contact a professional immediately.
Clean the Dirty Thermocouple
If the thermocouple in your gas hot water tank is dirty, you can gently clean it with a piece of sandpaper or a small brush. This removes any dirt or debris that may be interfering with its ability to detect heat from the pilot light.
Be cautious not to damage the thermocouple during cleaning. If cleaning doesn’t help, it may need to be replaced.
Check for Drafts
If your pilot light’s flame goes out because of a draft, try closing nearby windows or doors to eliminate airflow disruptions. You can also check if the area around the water heater is properly sealed to prevent wind from blowing out the pilot light.
Professional Solutions for a Pilot Light That Won’t Stay Lit
If the pilot flame continues to go out, a more permanent solution is needed. Son-Rise Plumbing can help with professional repairs that fix the root of the problem.
Replace the Faulty Thermocouple
If the thermocouple is damaged or misaligned, it won’t properly detect the heat from the water heater pilot light. A replacement thermocouple is a simple fix that will restore the normal function of your water heater. Our team can inspect the thermocouple and replace it quickly, ensuring your pilot light stays lit.
Repair or Replace the Gas Valve
In some cases, the problem lies with the gas valve itself. If the gas valve is faulty, it won’t supply enough gas to keep the water heater pilot light burning. Son-Rise Plumbing can repair or replace gas valves, restoring proper gas flow and preventing the pilot light from going out.
Clean or Replace the Pilot Light Tube
If a dirty pilot tube is causing the issue, our plumbers can clean it out to restore proper gas flow to the pilot light. If the tube is damaged or too clogged, it may need to be replaced. This will help ensure a continuously burning flame.
Address Draft Issues
If drafts are the problem, we can assess the location of your water heater and suggest solutions to improve airflow. This may involve sealing gaps or moving the water heater to a more sheltered area.
Why Choose Son-Rise Plumbing for Hot Water Heater Repairs in Calgary?
At Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting, we’ve been helping Calgary homeowners with gas water heater repairs for over 30 years.
Whether it’s a pilot light issue or another repair, our team has the expertise to get your hot water running again quickly.
You can trust that we’ll bring:
- Skilled Technicians: We have experience handling all types of hot water tank or tankless unit problems, including pilot light issues. You can trust us to find the cause and provide a reliable fix.
- Fast Service: A water heater without a pilot flame means no hot water. That’s why we offer same-day service to get your hot water back as soon as possible.
- Local Knowledge: We understand the unique challenges of Calgary homes, from harsh winters to common gas system issues. Our solutions are tailored to your home’s needs.
- Customer Satisfaction: We’re proud to be one of Calgary’s top-rated plumbing companies, known for our friendly service and quality repairs.
Call Son-Rise Plumbing Today for Hot Water Heater Repairs
If your pilot light flame won’t stay lit, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Son-Rise Plumbing & Gasfitting today. Our expert Calgary team will inspect your water heater, find the cause of the issue, and provide the right solution.
We’ll make sure your hot water is running smoothly in no time.