If you’ve noticed that the pilot light on your water heater has gone out, you may be wondering if this poses any danger. Having your pilot light extinguished can certainly be an inconvenience, but there are also some safety concerns to be aware of.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Having the pilot light on your water heater go out can allow gas to accumulate inside the appliance. This creates a risk of explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning if the gas ignites.
It’s important to relight the pilot or have a professional service the water heater as soon as possible.
What Is a Water Heater Pilot Light?
A water heater pilot light is a small flame that is constantly burning in gas-powered water heaters. It serves as an ignition source for the main burner, which heats the water inside the tank. The pilot light is typically located near the bottom of the water heater and can be seen through a small viewing window or access panel.
The Purpose of a Pilot Light
The main purpose of a water heater pilot light is to ensure that the burner ignites properly when hot water is required. It acts as a reliable source of ignition, allowing the burner to heat up the water to the desired temperature.
Without a functioning pilot light, the water heater won’t be able to provide hot water.
Additionally, the pilot light also serves as an indicator of whether the water heater is functioning correctly. If the pilot light goes out unexpectedly, it may be a sign of a problem with the gas supply, thermocouple, or other components of the water heater.
How a Pilot Light Works
A water heater pilot light works by using a small flow of gas from the main gas supply. When the gas valve is turned on, gas flows into the pilot assembly. The pilot light, which is a small flame, is then ignited using an electric spark or a standing pilot light system.
In a standing pilot light system, a small flame is always burning. When the thermostat detects a need for hot water, it signals the gas valve to open, allowing gas to flow to the main burner. The pilot light then ignites the gas, which heats the water inside the tank.
On the other hand, some newer water heaters use an intermittent pilot light system. In this system, the pilot light is only ignited when the thermostat signals the gas valve to open. Once the burner has been ignited, the pilot light is extinguished until it is needed again.
It is important to note that if the pilot light goes out unexpectedly, it should be relit following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the pilot light continues to go out frequently or if you suspect any issues with your water heater, it is recommended to seek professional assistance from a licensed plumber or technician.
Dangers of an Extinguished Pilot Light
When the pilot light of your water heater goes out, it can pose several dangers that you should be aware of. These dangers include gas buildup and explosion risk, carbon monoxide poisoning, and the lack of hot water.
Gas Buildup and Explosion Risk
One of the most significant dangers of an extinguished pilot light is the risk of gas buildup and explosion. When the pilot light goes out, the gas valve remains open, allowing gas to continue flowing into the water heater.
If there is a leak or any other source of ignition, such as a spark or flame, it can lead to a dangerous explosion. This is why it is crucial to address an extinguished pilot light promptly.
In the event of a gas leak, it is essential to turn off the gas supply to your water heater and contact a professional plumber or gas technician to assess and repair the issue. Gas leaks are serious and should not be taken lightly, as they can have catastrophic consequences.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Another danger of an extinguished pilot light is the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that is produced when natural gas or propane is burned. When the pilot light goes out, it can lead to incomplete combustion, resulting in the production of carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide is highly toxic and can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and even death in severe cases. It is crucial to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home and to ensure that they are in working condition.
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, evacuate the premises immediately and seek medical attention.
No Hot Water
In addition to the safety concerns, an extinguished pilot light also means that you will not have hot water until the issue is resolved. This can be particularly inconvenient, especially during colder months when hot water is essential for daily activities such as bathing, cooking, and cleaning.
If you are experiencing a lack of hot water due to an extinguished pilot light, it is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight the pilot light. If you are unsure or uncomfortable doing so, it is best to contact a professional plumber to assist you.
What to Do If Your Pilot Light Goes Out
Relight It Yourself
If your water heater pilot light goes out, there are a few steps you can take to safely relight it yourself. Before attempting to relight the pilot light, make sure to turn off the gas supply valve and wait for any gas fumes to dissipate. Once you have ensured the area is safe, follow these steps:
- Locate the pilot light assembly. This is typically found near the bottom of the water heater.
- Turn the gas control knob to the “off” position.
- Wait for a few minutes to allow any lingering gas to disperse.
- Turn the gas control knob to the “pilot” position.
- Hold a lit match or a butane lighter to the pilot light orifice while depressing the reset button or control knob.
- Continue to hold the reset button or control knob for about one minute after the pilot light has been lit.
- Release the reset button or control knob and ensure that the pilot light remains lit.
- If the pilot light goes out after releasing the reset button or control knob, repeat the process and hold the reset button or control knob for a longer period.
- Once the pilot light remains lit, turn the gas control knob to the “on” position.
- Check for any gas leaks by applying a mixture of soap and water to the gas connections. If bubbles form, there is a gas leak, and you should immediately turn off the gas supply and contact a professional.
Call a Professional
If you are uncomfortable or unsure about relighting the pilot light yourself, it is always best to call a professional. A licensed plumber or HVAC technician will have the knowledge and expertise to safely relight the pilot light and address any underlying issues that may have caused it to go out.
Additionally, they can perform a thorough inspection of your water heater to ensure it is functioning properly and efficiently.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority when dealing with gas appliances. If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately and contact your gas utility provider or emergency services.
Preventing Your Pilot Light from Going Out
Keep It Clean
One of the main reasons why a pilot light goes out is due to a buildup of dirt and debris. It is important to keep your water heater clean to prevent this from happening. Regularly inspect the pilot light area and clean any dust or dirt that may have accumulated.
You can use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment for this purpose. By keeping the area clean, you can ensure that the pilot light remains lit and your water heater functions properly.
Watch for Drafts and Ventilation Issues
Drafts and ventilation issues can also cause the pilot light to go out. Make sure that there are no open windows or doors near the water heater that could create a draft. Additionally, check that the ventilation system is working properly and not blocked.
Proper airflow is crucial for the pilot light to stay lit. If you notice any drafts or ventilation problems, address them immediately to prevent the pilot light from going out.
Inspect Regularly
Regular inspections are essential for maintaining the proper functioning of your water heater and preventing the pilot light from going out. During these inspections, check for any signs of wear or damage to the pilot light assembly.
Look for loose connections, cracks, or corrosion that could affect the pilot light’s performance. If you notice any issues, it is important to repair or replace the faulty parts as soon as possible to prevent the pilot light from going out unexpectedly.
Consider a Newer Model
If you are experiencing frequent pilot light outages despite taking all the necessary precautions, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer model. Newer water heaters often come with advanced features that improve their reliability and safety.
Look for models with a more robust pilot light system or even consider a tankless water heater that doesn’t rely on a pilot light at all. These newer models can provide greater peace of mind and reduce the chances of the pilot light going out.
Remember, a properly functioning pilot light is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of your water heater. By following these tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can prevent your pilot light from going out and ensure a consistent supply of hot water in your home.
When to Replace Your Water Heater
Knowing when to replace your water heater is essential to avoid potential dangers and ensure efficient functioning. While there are various factors to consider, including the age and condition of your water heater, changing needs, and upgrading for efficiency, it is crucial to make the right decision to maintain a safe and reliable hot water supply.
Age and Condition
The age and condition of your water heater are important indicators of whether it’s time for a replacement. On average, a traditional tank water heater has a lifespan of 8 to 12 years, while tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years.
If your water heater is nearing or exceeding its expected lifespan, it may be more prone to breakdowns and inefficiencies.
Additionally, pay attention to the condition of your water heater. Signs of deterioration, such as rust, leaks, or strange noises, may indicate that it’s time for a replacement. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify any issues and prevent potential hazards.
Changing Needs
As your household’s needs change, so should your water heater. If you’ve recently added more members to your family or have noticed a significant increase in hot water usage, your current water heater may struggle to meet the demand.
This can result in insufficient hot water or longer wait times for it to heat up.
Consider upgrading to a larger tank or a tankless water heater to accommodate your changing needs. Tankless water heaters provide hot water on-demand, eliminating the need for a storage tank and ensuring a continuous supply of hot water.
Upgrading for Efficiency
Upgrading your water heater for efficiency can not only save you money on energy bills but also reduce your carbon footprint. Newer models are designed to be more energy-efficient, using less energy to heat the same amount of water.
Consider the energy efficiency rating of your current water heater. If it’s outdated or has a low efficiency rating, upgrading to a more efficient model can result in significant savings over time. Look for Energy Star certified water heaters, which meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Conclusion
Having your water heater pilot light go out is certainly an inconvenience, but more importantly, it can create some safety issues if left unchecked. The accumulation of gas and lack of CO ventilation poses an explosion and poisoning risk.
It’s important to relight the pilot light or call a professional right away before using the hot water again.
With some preventative maintenance and regular inspections, you can help keep your pilot light burning strong. But if your water heater is getting up in years, replacement may be the best option to ensure safety and efficiency.
Stay vigilant, and make sure you and your family can enjoy consistent, reliably heated water.
