Reasons Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit on Your Water Heater

If you have a gas water heater, one of the common issues you will encounter is when the pilot light won’t stay lit. This component is essential, as it ignites the burner that heats the water. Several reasons cause the pilot light to go out, which Dynamic Drains, your reliable water heater services provider, lists below:

Faulty Thermocouple

The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. However, if it gets damaged, it may not sense the heat from the pilot light, causing it to shut off the gas supply. In that case, seek water heater repair in Saline, MI, to replace the thermocouple.

Dirty Pilot Tube

Dirt and debris can collect in the pilot tube, blocking the gas flow. As a result, the pilot on your traditional or tankless water heater won’t get enough fuel to stay lit. This is also a possible cause if the pilot won’t ignite at all. The good news is that a gunked-up pilot tube is the simplest issue to address. You can use a wire brush or compressed air to remove the debris buildup.

Drafts or Improper Ventilation

Drafts near the unit’s base or issues with your ventilation system can blow out the pilot light. If you have a direct vent (DV) water heater installation, check if the ventilation isn’t blocked. You should also seal any drafts.

Low Gas Pressure

The pilot light may not stay lit if the gas pressure is too low. Various factors, such as a faulty gas valve or a problem with the gas supply, can cause this. Leaks can also decrease gas pressure. If this is the problem, address it immediately to avoid accidents and an untimely water heater replacement.

Understanding these common culprits will help you prevent or deal with pilot light issues accordingly. For professional repairs, look no further than Dynamic Drains. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.