Pilot Light
Pilot Light | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Bean Station
For decades, HEP has been the name Bean Station homeowners trust when their pilot light sputters out or their aging tank water heater refuses to keep up with morning showers. Our licensed plumbers arrive with fully stocked vehicles, troubleshoot on the spot, and get that reassuring blue flame burning again—often in a single visit. From thermocouple replacements to gas-line inspections, we make sure every connection is safe, every component is adjusted to factory spec, and every gallon of hot water is delivered exactly when you need it.
Because comfort shouldn’t come with surprises, we provide up-front pricing, clear explanations, and a workmanship guarantee that’s as solid as our East Tennessee roots. Whether you’re dealing with lukewarm taps, strange noises, or a total lack of hot water, one call to HEP turns cold-water headaches into steamy, worry-free mornings.
FAQs
Why does the pilot light on my gas tank water heater keep going out?
The most common causes include a dirty or clogged pilot orifice, a faulty thermocouple, drafts blowing the flame out, or insufficient gas pressure. In Bean Station’s variable spring and fall temperatures, condensation can also drip onto the flame and extinguish it. A licensed plumber can clean the burner assembly, test gas pressure, and replace worn safety parts to keep the pilot light stable.
How do I safely relight the pilot light on my water heater?
First, turn the thermostat to the OFF position and wait at least 5 minutes for any accumulated gas to dissipate. Then set the control knob to PILOT, press it down, and hold a match or igniter at the pilot opening. Continue pressing the knob 30–60 seconds after the flame appears so the thermocouple can heat up. Finally, turn the knob to ON and reset the thermostat. If the flame will not stay lit after two attempts, call a professional familiar with Bean Station codes to avoid a gas hazard.
What should I do if I smell gas around my water heater in Bean Station?
1) Do not operate electrical switches or create sparks. 2) Open windows and doors to ventilate. 3) Turn off the gas at the shut-off valve on the supply line if it is safe to do so. 4) Evacuate everyone from the home and call the utility’s emergency number or 911 from outside. 5) Contact a licensed local plumber to locate and repair the leak, test for safe operation, and relight the pilot after clearance from the utility.
How often should a tank-style water heater be serviced, and what does maintenance include?
Manufacturers recommend annual service. A tune-up in Bean Station typically includes: draining a few gallons to flush sediment, testing the T&P relief valve, inspecting the anode rod, cleaning the burner and pilot assembly, checking for vent draft, verifying gas pressure, and adjusting the thermostat. Regular maintenance extends tank life, lowers energy use, and reduces unexpected pilot-out problems.
Can a faulty pilot light raise my energy bills or affect hot-water temperature?
Yes. When the pilot goes out, the burner cannot fire, so the water in the tank cools. The heater then requires longer burner cycles to recover, wasting gas as it reheats. A weak pilot flame can also cause incomplete combustion, lowering efficiency. Fixing pilot and thermocouple issues ensures steady hot water and keeps your Bean Station utility bills in check.
When should I replace instead of repair my tank water heater?
Consider replacement if the unit is over 10–12 years old, has recurring pilot or burner failures, shows rust-colored water, or leaks from the tank itself. Modern high-efficiency models can cut energy costs by 10–20 percent and often qualify for Tennessee utility rebates. A plumbing professional can compare repair costs with replacement benefits and handle safe disposal of the old unit.