Did you know that it’s more common to hear cold weather sayings around the water heater? Think about it, you probably say “put on the kettle” when you need to boil water. Folks also say things like “thaw the pipes” or “fire up the grill.”
The water heater pilot light is the little flame that’s responsible for making sure the water heater works. If it goes out, that’s bad for a lot of reasons. Keep reading to learn all about the water heater pilot light and why it might go out.
Substandard Ventilation
Pilot lights going out is a common issue with water heaters. Poor or substandard ventilation is often the reason the pilot stays out. If the combustion air holes are blocked or there are other ventilation issues, the air supply can be too depleted for a pilot to stay lit.
Low air pressure caused by strong winds or snow packed around the water heater can also cause this issue. Water heaters should be located in ventilated spaces as well as positioned away from windows and doors to ensure proper air intake.
Natural Gas Line Issues
The most common problem is caused by a gas line leak, which can cause the gas pressure to decrease, leading to the pilot light going out.
Over time, air can enter the gas line causing the pressure to rise, which can cause the pilot light to be unstable and go out. This is why a water heater should be equipped with an adjustable gas regulator.
If the pressure is too high, the light may go out or the flame may be uneven and can even cause fires.
Cleaning the burner and thermocouple components can help with some of these problems, but it is best to have a professional inspect the water heater to ensure that the issue is not with the natural gas line. Check this out for reliable water heater repair and installation services.
Thermocouple Malfunction
A thermocouple malfunction is one of the most common reasons why a water heater pilot light keeps going out. It is a safety device that turns off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out.
If it is damaged or faulty, it won’t be able to detect the heat from the pilot light and will mistakenly shut off the gas supply. This can cause your hot water heater to shut down and the pilot light to go out.
You may have to replace the thermocouple if it’s not working properly, as it is responsible for keeping the gas supply on.
Improper Installation
The pilot light on a water heater can go out due to improper installation. If the water heater was not installed properly in the first place, the connection between the valve and the pilot light may be faulty.
This means that the gas line may be improperly connected, leading to inconsistent gas flow and thus an inconsistent flame. It may also include an improper air-gas mixture, leading to too much air and not enough gas in the combustion chamber, causing the flame to be too weak to remain lit.
Learn More About Pilot Light Today
Pilot lights can go out for a variety of reasons, including sediment buildup, improper venting, or a gas leak. If your water heater pilot light keeps going out, it’s important to take the necessary steps to solve the issue, as it may be a sign of an unsafe situation.
To ensure your family’s safety and hot water, consult a professional plumber and have them inspect your water heater.
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