If your water heater pilot light keeps going out, your gas water heater cannot heat water, and you end up with cold showers. In most cases the cause is a small, affordable part, but a pilot that keeps going out can also point to a venting or safety problem. This guide explains the 7 most common reasons a water heater pilot light keeps going out and what to do about each one.
Safety first
- If you smell gas, do not try to relight the pilot. Leave the home and call your gas company or 911 from outside.
- Always follow the lighting instructions on your water heater’s label.
- If the pilot goes out again and again, stop relighting it and call a professional.
1. A dirty or worn thermocouple
The thermocouple is a thin metal rod that sits in the pilot flame. It tells the gas valve that the pilot is lit. When it gets dirty or wears out, it stops sending that signal, so the gas valve closes and the pilot goes out. This is the most common reason a water heater pilot light keeps going out, and replacing a thermocouple is an affordable repair.
2. A thermocouple that is out of position
If the thermocouple is bent away from the flame, it cannot get hot enough. The pilot may light while you hold the knob, then go out as soon as you let go.
3. A dirty pilot tube or orifice
Dust and debris can partly block the small opening that feeds gas to the pilot. The result is a weak, flickering or yellow flame that goes out easily. A healthy pilot flame is mostly blue.
4. Drafts around the water heater
A strong draft from an open window, a fan or a nearby door can blow the pilot out. If the pilot only goes out on windy days or when a door is open, a draft is a likely cause.
5. A clogged flame arrestor or air intake
Many newer gas water heaters have a sealed combustion chamber with a flame arrestor screen at the bottom. When lint, dust or pet hair blocks this screen, the burner does not get enough air and the pilot can go out. Keep the area around your heater clean and free of stored items.
6. A venting or backdraft problem
Exhaust from a gas water heater must leave the home through the vent. If the vent is blocked or not drawing properly, exhaust can push back and put out the pilot. This is a serious problem because it can let carbon monoxide into your home. Call a professional right away, and make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors.
7. A failing gas control valve
The gas control valve controls gas to both the pilot and the burner. If it is failing, the pilot may not stay lit even with a new thermocouple. This part should be replaced by a professional.
What does it cost to fix?
Pilot light, thermocouple and igniter repairs often cost about $150 to $450, depending on the part and your heater. You can see more prices in our water heater repair cost guide.
Water heater pilot light keeps going out in Greenwood, IN?
If your water heater pilot light keeps going out, call now or request a free quote. A local pro can find the cause, make sure your heater is venting safely, and get your hot water back.