How to Troubleshoot a Pilot Light That Won’t Stay Lit

Dealing with a pilot light that won’t stay on can be super annoying, especially when you need your water heater working to fend off the crippling cold. While a pilot light seems trivial in size, your gas-powered heaters remain dependent on it to function as they should. Having this kind of trouble, especially during freezing temperatures, is definitely a risk you shouldn’t be taking on.

But don’t worry—you don’t have to be a plumbing expert to figure this out! Before calling in a water heater repair service, there are a few simple things you can check that might just restore your pilot light back to normal.

This guide from Ortega Plumbing Heating & Air explains what to do if your pilot light keeps going out.

1. Check the Thermostat Settings

Before you start worrying too much, double-check your thermostat settings. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as the temperature being set too low. Make sure the thermostat is set to the right temp and that it’s on the heating mode (not cooling!). If the thermostat is acting up, it could be telling your system to shut off, which might cause that pilot light to go out.

2. Make Sure the Gas Is On

This one’s easy to miss, but it’s a quick fix—check the gas valve near your furnace or water heater to make sure it’s in the “ON” position. If the gas is off, your pilot light won’t stay lit. If it’s on and you’re still having trouble, you might want to give your gas company a call to check if it has something to do with a supply issue.

3. Clean the Pilot Light Tube

Over time, dust, dirt, or gunk can build up in the pilot light tube, blocking the gas flow. This could be why your light won’t stay on. To fix this, turn off the gas first as a safety precaution, and then clean the tube with some compressed air or a small brush. Once it’s cleaned out, try lighting the pilot again.

4. Check the Thermocouple

The thermocouple is a little safety device that senses the heat from the pilot light. If it’s dirty or misaligned, it might not be able to detect the flame properly, which can cause the gas to shut off. Take a look to make sure the thermocouple is lined up with the pilot light and not covered in gunk. You can clean it gently with a cloth or brush if needed, but if it looks worn out, it might need replacing.

5. Look for Drafts

Sometimes, something as simple as a draft can blow out the pilot light. Check around the appliance for any air currents, especially near vents, doors, or windows. If you find a draft, try sealing it up with weatherstripping or just shifting the appliance a little to block the airflow. It could be the simple fix you need!

6. Check for Gas Leaks

If you’ve tried everything and your pilot light still won’t stay lit, it might be a gas leak. Gas leaks are serious, so don’t take any chances—turn off the gas and avoid using any open flames or sparks. Call a professional to check it out right away. They’ll be able to find and fix any leaks safely.

7. Replace the Pilot Assembly

Still no luck? If nothing else is working, the issue could be with the entire pilot assembly (the part that holds the pilot light, thermocouple, and other pieces). If this is the case, it’s probably time to call in a plumber to replace it. Handling gas lines and pilot assemblies is never DIY-friendly, so it’s best left to an expert.

Pilot Light Giving You Trouble? Call Ortega Plumbing Heating & Air for Fast Help!

If you’ve tried troubleshooting and your pilot light just won’t cooperate, don’t stress! For now, you can surrender your DIY solutions and opt for a more practical approach, booking a professional plumbing service.

At Ortega Plumbing Heating & Air, we’ve got the experience to get your water heater back up and running in no time. Whether it’s a dirty thermocouple, a gas supply issue, or something else, our team’s ready to fix it quickly and safely.

Don’t let a stubborn pilot light keep you in the cold—call Ortega Plumbing Heating & Air today for fast, fail-proof service!