Pilot Light
Pilot Light | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Robbins
Few household frustrations match the shock of an icy shower on a chilly Robbins morning—but that’s exactly what happens when the pilot light on your tank water heater gives out. HEP’s seasoned plumbers arrive fast, diagnose the problem on the spot, and reignite or replace faulty components so your system fires back up without delay. From worn thermocouples to stubborn gas valves, we’ve seen it all and carry the right parts to restore reliable hot water in a single visit.
Local homeowners trust HEP because we combine small-town courtesy with big-league expertise. Our fully licensed team safeguards your home by checking for gas leaks, optimizing burner efficiency, and cleaning sediment so your heater runs safer and cheaper. Whether you need an emergency fix tonight or a preventative tune-up next week, one call puts Robbins’ most responsive plumbing pros on your doorstep—ready to keep every shower steamy and every dish spotless.
FAQs
Why does the pilot light on my tank water heater keep going out?
Several factors can extinguish a pilot light: a draft in the utility room, a dirty or obstructed pilot orifice, a weak thermocouple, or an issue with the gas supply pressure. In Robbins, older homes often have sediment buildup in the combustion chamber that restricts airflow and snuffs out the flame. A qualified plumber can inspect these components, clean the burner assembly, and verify gas pressure to restore reliable operation.
How do I safely relight the pilot light on my gas water heater?
First, turn the gas control knob to OFF and wait at least 5 minutes so any residual gas can dissipate. Switch the control to PILOT, press and hold it down, and use a long-reach lighter or the built-in igniter to ignite the pilot. Keep holding the button 30–60 seconds until the flame stays lit, then turn the knob to ON. If the pilot won’t remain lit after two attempts, stop and call a licensed Robbins plumber—continued attempts can lead to a dangerous gas buildup.
When should I call a plumber for a water heater pilot light issue in Robbins?
Call a professional if the pilot will not stay lit after one or two relight attempts, if you smell gas, see visible corrosion or water leaks around the heater, or notice sooting on the burner door. You should also contact a plumber if the pilot goes out repeatedly within a few days; this usually indicates a failing thermocouple, gas valve, or ventilation problem that requires specialized tools and parts.
What common parts fail when a pilot light won’t stay lit?
The most frequent culprits are a worn thermocouple (or flame sensor on newer units), a clogged pilot tube, and a malfunctioning gas control valve. A weak thermocouple can’t generate enough millivolts to keep the gas valve open, and a partially clogged pilot tube starves the flame of gas. Less commonly, a defective high-limit switch or a blocked flue can overheat the system and shut off gas flow as a safety measure.
Is it safe to troubleshoot my water heater pilot light myself?
Basic checks like ensuring the gas valve is open and gently cleaning around the pilot opening are usually safe. However, deeper diagnostics—especially anything involving gas line fittings, burner removal, or electrical testing—should be left to a licensed plumber. Improper handling can cause gas leaks, carbon monoxide buildup, or scalding water conditions. In Robbins, plumbers are required to follow Illinois plumbing code, which includes critical gas-safety protocols.
Can replacing the thermocouple or gas control valve fix recurring pilot light problems?
Yes. A new thermocouple often solves intermittent pilot outages because it restores proper voltage to the gas valve. If the thermocouple is healthy but the pilot still drops out, the gas control valve may be sticking or not regulating gas flow correctly. A certified technician can test both parts with a multimeter and manometer and replace only what’s necessary, saving you from a premature full water heater replacement.