When Your Water Heater Pilot Light Will Not Stay Lit

Is there anything more frustrating in the moment than entering the shower or standing at the sink to wash dishes after a meal only to find that there is no hot water. You let the water run a little longer and turn the knob all the way to hot, hoping that it is just taking a little longer than usual, but you know.

After wasting another gallon down the drain, you finally face reality—the hot water heater is not working. If this is the first time, you most likely call a plumber or other HVAC contractor who shows up only to tell you that your pilot light has gone out.

After a quick relight, you are back in business!

Then it happens again.

Mr. DIY to the Rescue

This time you remember the fix so you wiggle into the corner of your garage or pantry—or head up to the attic—and go through the steps to relight the pilot light. The heating element fires up and in 30 minutes, you have hot water again.

Then the pilot goes out again. You relight it. It goes out again—in less time. Finally, you’ve had enough.

To Replace or Repair

Rather than assuming you will need to replace the water heater, there is a chance that some of the parts are no longer functioning properly. If this is the case, homeowners can extend the life of their water heater by having these parts replaced with parts by a trained professional.

Other issues causing a gas pilot light to go out in a water heater may also be due to an issue in your natural gas line. Again, a trained technician will be able to diagnose the problem and provide a fix.

After a full inspection, it may be the case that a new water heater is required after all. However, the pros at a contractor like Ideal Conditions can assess the condition of your current water heater to discern the best solution for your hot water woes.

You and your family will appreciate the peace of mind and convenience that comes from knowing hot water is always available immediately, rather than continuing the frustrating dance of having to manually reignite the pilot light and wait for water to heat.

Call Ideal Conditions at 904-379-8762 or schedule service online today!