How to Relight a Water Heater Pilot Light Safely

Before trying to relight a pilot light that has gone out, turn the gas control valve to “off” and wait at least five minutes so any lingering gas can clear out. If you smell gas after waiting, stop, leave the area, and call your gas company first. If the problem is with the water heater itself, Gold Star Plumbing and Drain offers water heater repair in Tempe, AZ to help diagnose issues with the thermocouple, gas valve, or burner assembly before the issue gets worse.

Start With a Safe Setup

Every water heater model is a little different, so check the manufacturer’s instructions printed on the tank. Most gas water heaters follow the same basic process:

1. Set the thermostat to the lowest setting, if your manufacturer’s instructions recommend it.
2. Turn the gas control to “pilot”.
3. Press and hold the control knob or pilot button.
4. Use the built-in igniter button, or a long lighter if your unit does not have an igniter, to relight the flame.
5. Keep holding the button for about 30 to 60 seconds, or as directed by the manufacturer.

Once the flame stays lit, slowly release the button and turn the gas control to “on”. If the pilot goes out again, turn the gas control back to ‘off’ and stop trying to relight it. In some cases, older systems continue having ignition trouble because internal parts have worn down over time, making water heater replacement necessary.

Signs Something Else Is Going On

A pilot light that goes out once after a draft or temporary gas interruption is not unusual. Frequent outages are different. Dirt buildup, a failing thermocouple, or ventilation problems can interfere with normal operation. Homeowners may also notice:

• Water taking longer to heat
• Popping noises from the tank, which can point to sediment buildup
• Rust-colored water, which may indicate tank corrosion
• A faint gas smell near the unit, which means you should stop and call for professional help immediately

Ignoring those warning signs can leave a household without reliable hot water when it is needed most. During water heater installation, proper venting and gas line connections play a big role in keeping the pilot light stable and the system operating safely.

A Few Things You Should Never Do

Trying to relight a pilot light is manageable for many homeowners, but some shortcuts create unnecessary risks. Avoid:

• Using flammable liquids near the heater
• Relighting the pilot repeatedly without checking for gas odors
• Blocking the ventilation area or air openings
• Storing boxes, chemicals, or other combustibles next to the unit

The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping combustible materials away from fuel-burning appliances and paying attention to unusual gas odors around the home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my pilot light go out in the first place?

Strong drafts, dirt buildup, worn thermocouples, or temporary gas supply interruptions are common causes.

Can I relight the pilot myself?

Many homeowners can safely relight it by following the manufacturer’s directions. If the flame will not stay lit, professional service is the safer option.

How long should I wait before relighting it?

Wait at least five minutes after turning the gas off so any leftover gas can dissipate.

Is it dangerous if I smell gas?

Yes. Leave the area immediately and contact your gas company or a licensed plumber.

Who should I call first?

If you smell gas or think there may be a leak, call your gas company first and leave the area. If there’s no gas odor and the pilot just won’t stay lit, call a licensed plumber to check the water heater.

Get Reliable Hot Water Services

A pilot light issue can be a quick fix, or it can point to a larger problem inside the system. Gold Star Plumbing & Drain provides same-day service options, fair pricing, financing options, and 24/7 availability for households dealing with unreliable hot water. Our licensed and insured team brings more than 25 years of industry experience, backed by warranties, highly trained technicians, more than 1,400 satisfied customers, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.

If your water heater keeps shutting down or refuses to relight, call us for dependable service that can help restore your hot water.