Is your water heater not working properly? If the water coming out of your faucets is lukewarm or cold, the problem may be a faulty igniter. Replacing a bad igniter is an easy DIY project that can save you the cost of calling out a plumber.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: the main steps involved in replacing a water heater igniter are turning off the gas supply, draining the tank, removing the old igniter, installing the new one with heat-resistant sealant, reconnecting the gas supply and electrical plug, refilling the tank, and testing for leaks before relighting the pilot.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the entire process of replacing your water heater’s igniter step-by-step. You’ll learn how to diagnose igniter problems, choose the right replacement part, safely shut off gas and water supplies, disconnect and remove the old igniter, install the new one properly using sealant, reconnect everything, refill the tank, relight the pilot light, and test for leaks.
Diagnosing Water Heater Igniter Problems
When it comes to troubleshooting a water heater igniter, there are several common issues that can arise. By understanding these problems, you will be better equipped to diagnose and fix the issue. Here are some of the most typical water heater igniter problems:
Pilot light won’t stay lit
If you notice that the pilot light on your water heater won’t stay lit, there may be a few reasons behind this issue. One possible cause is a faulty thermocouple, which is a safety device that detects if the pilot light is burning. Another reason could be a clogged or dirty pilot tube.
In some cases, a draft in the room or a gas supply issue may also prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
Burner won’t ignite
When your water heater’s burner won’t ignite, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. A common cause of this problem is a faulty igniter. Over time, igniters can wear out and stop functioning properly. In addition, a dirty or clogged burner can prevent it from igniting.
If you have checked the igniter and it seems to be in working order, it may be worth inspecting the gas supply to ensure there are no issues there.
Flame is smaller or orange/yellow
If the flame on your water heater burner appears smaller than usual or has an orange/yellow color, it could indicate a problem. This can be a sign of incomplete combustion, which may be caused by a dirty burner, insufficient air supply, or a gas pressure issue.
It is important to address this problem promptly, as an improper flame can lead to carbon monoxide production or other safety hazards.
Soot buildup on igniter surface
Another common issue with water heater igniters is the buildup of soot on the igniter surface. This can occur due to a variety of factors, such as improper combustion or a dirty burner. Soot buildup can impair the igniter’s performance and may need to be cleaned off to ensure proper functioning.
It is worth noting that diagnosing water heater igniter problems can sometimes be challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the inner workings of your water heater. If you are unsure about any step of the diagnosis or repair process, it is always best to consult a professional plumber or technician for assistance.
They will have the expertise and tools necessary to accurately diagnose the issue and carry out any necessary repairs.
Choosing the Right Replacement Igniter
When it’s time to replace a water heater igniter, it’s important to choose the right one for your specific model. Here are some factors to consider:
Matching igniter style and voltage
The first step in choosing a replacement igniter is to ensure that it matches the style and voltage of your current igniter. Igniters come in various styles, including hot surface igniters and standing pilot igniters.
It’s crucial to select the correct style to ensure proper functioning of your water heater. Additionally, you need to know the voltage requirements of your water heater to find an igniter that is compatible.
Igniter rod vs. flame sensor
Another consideration is whether your water heater uses an igniter rod or a flame sensor. An igniter rod is a metal rod that generates sparks to ignite the gas, while a flame sensor detects the presence of a flame.
It’s essential to identify which type your water heater has, as this will determine the type of replacement igniter you should purchase.
Buying an OEM vs. universal replacement
When shopping for a replacement igniter, you’ll also need to decide whether to buy an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) igniter or a universal replacement. OEM igniters are specifically designed for your water heater model and are guaranteed to fit and function correctly.
However, they can be more expensive. On the other hand, universal replacements are designed to fit a range of water heater models but may require some modifications for proper installation. Consider your budget and the importance of a perfect fit when making this decision.
Remember, choosing the right replacement igniter is crucial for the efficient and safe operation of your water heater. If you’re unsure about which igniter to purchase, consult the manufacturer’s website or reach out to a professional plumber for assistance.
Turning Off Water and Gas Supplies
Before replacing a water heater igniter, it is crucial to turn off the water and gas supplies to ensure your safety. Here are the steps to follow:
Locating the water shutoff valve
The first step is to locate the water shutoff valve. This valve is typically located near the top of the water heater. It may be a lever or a knob that you can turn clockwise to shut off the water supply.
If you’re unsure about the location of the valve, refer to the manufacturer’s manual or check the website of the water heater manufacturer for more information. Remember, it’s essential to turn off the water supply to prevent any leaks or accidents.
Closing the main gas valve
Next, you need to close the main gas valve. The gas valve is usually located near the bottom of the water heater. To shut off the gas supply, turn the valve clockwise until it is fully closed. This step is crucial to prevent any gas leaks while you work on replacing the igniter.
Safety should always be a top priority when dealing with gas appliances, so make sure the gas valve is tightly closed.
Depressurizing the tank with the drain valve
Once the water and gas supplies are turned off, it’s important to depressurize the tank. To do this, locate the drain valve near the bottom of the water heater. Attach a garden hose to the drain valve and place the other end of the hose in a suitable drainage area, such as a floor drain or outside.
Open the drain valve to let the water flow out until the tank is empty. This step is necessary to prevent any water from spilling out when you remove the igniter.
Remember, if you’re unsure about any of these steps or have any concerns, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber or follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Safety should always come first when working with water heaters and gas appliances.
Removing the Old Igniter
Disconnecting gas line and electrical plug
The first step in replacing a water heater igniter is to disconnect the gas line and electrical plug. Safety is of utmost importance when working with gas appliances, so make sure to turn off the gas supply before proceeding.
Locate the gas shut-off valve near the water heater and turn it clockwise to shut off the gas flow. Next, unplug the electrical cord from the power source to ensure that there is no electrical current running to the igniter.
Taking out mounting screws
Once the gas line and electrical plug are disconnected, you can proceed to remove the mounting screws that hold the igniter in place. These screws can usually be found on the front or side of the water heater. Use a screwdriver or a wrench to loosen and remove the screws.
Keep these screws in a safe place as you will need them when installing the new igniter.
Cleaning mounting base if needed
After removing the mounting screws, you may need to clean the mounting base if there is any debris or residue present. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any dirt or buildup that may have accumulated over time.
This step is important to ensure proper installation and functioning of the new igniter.
Remember, if you are unsure about any step or encounter any difficulties during the process, it is always recommended to consult a professional plumber or HVAC technician. They have the necessary knowledge and experience to safely replace a water heater igniter.
Installing the New Igniter
Once you have removed the old igniter from your water heater, it’s time to install the new one. Follow these steps to ensure a successful installation:
Applying heat-resistant sealant
Before attaching the new igniter, it’s important to apply heat-resistant sealant to ensure a tight and secure fit. This sealant will help prevent any gas leaks and ensure the igniter functions properly. Apply a thin layer of sealant around the base of the igniter using a small brush or your finger.
Be sure to cover the entire base to create a proper seal.
Securing with mounting screws
Once the sealant is applied, carefully place the new igniter over the mounting bracket on the water heater. Align the screw holes on the igniter with the holes on the bracket. Insert the mounting screws through the holes and tighten them using a screwdriver or a wrench.
Make sure the igniter is securely fastened to the bracket to prevent any vibrations or movement.
Reconnecting gas line and electrical plug
After securing the igniter, it’s time to reconnect the gas line and electrical plug. Start by reconnecting the gas line, ensuring it is properly aligned and tightened. Use a wrench to secure the connection, but be careful not to overtighten. Next, reconnect the electrical plug to the igniter.
It should slide on easily and click into place. Double-check all connections to ensure they are secure and tight.
Remember, if you’re unsure about any step or feel uncomfortable working with gas lines or electrical connections, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber or technician. They have the knowledge and experience to safely complete the installation and ensure your water heater is functioning properly.
Refilling the Tank and Relighting
Slowly opening water shutoff valve
After successfully installing the new water heater igniter, the next step is to refill the tank and ensure proper water flow. Begin by slowly opening the water shutoff valve. It is important to do this gradually to prevent any sudden surge of water that could potentially damage the system.
By opening the valve slowly, you allow the tank to fill up gradually, minimizing the risk of leaks or other issues.
Checking for leaks
Once the water shutoff valve is fully open, it is crucial to check for any leaks. Carefully inspect the connections and joints for any signs of water leakage. Even a small leak can lead to significant damage if left unattended.
If you notice any leaks, immediately turn off the water supply and seek professional assistance to fix the issue. Remember, safety should always be a top priority when dealing with water heaters.
Relighting pilot light
Now that the tank is filled and there are no leaks, it’s time to relight the pilot light. Locate the pilot light assembly, which is usually near the bottom of the water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely relight the pilot light.
This typically involves turning the gas control knob to the “pilot” position, pressing and holding the ignition button, and then using a long lighter or match to ignite the pilot flame. Once the pilot light is lit, continue to hold the gas control knob for about a minute to ensure the flame remains stable.
Finally, release the knob and switch it to the “on” position. Your water heater should now be fully operational.
Remember, if you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about any step during the process, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber or follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Safety should never be compromised when working with gas appliances.
Conclusion
Replacing a faulty water heater igniter is an inexpensive repair you can do yourself in just a few hours, saving the cost of a service call. With some basic mechanical skills and safety precautions, it’s a straightforward project.
Just match the original part, turn off water and gas, remove the old igniter, install the new one with sealant, reconnect everything, refill the tank, relight the pilot, and test for leaks.
Following this step-by-step guide will give you the knowledge and confidence to get your hot water heater running again quickly. And you’ll gain the satisfaction of having tackled a necessary home repair job on your own!
