Pilot Light
Pilot Light | Tank Water Heater | Plumbing | Rockford
When the pilot light sputters out on your tank water heater, your morning routine can grind to a chilly halt. HEP’s licensed Rockford plumbers bring the spark back fast, arriving with the right parts, diagnostic tools, and know-how to safely relight or repair your system on the spot. From worn thermocouples and clogged burner assemblies to tricky gas-line issues, we troubleshoot every component so you can count on consistent, energy-efficient hot water again.
Customers love our transparent pricing, courtesy boot covers, and the peace of mind that comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Whether your unit is aging, brand-new, or somewhere in between, HEP makes it easy to schedule same-day service online or by phone—24/7, no extra after-hours fees. Keep showers steamy, dishes spotless, and laundry fresh; call the hometown team Rockford trusts to keep the pilot burning bright.
FAQs
Why does the pilot light on my gas tank-style water heater keep going out?
A pilot flame needs a steady supply of gas, sufficient oxygen, and a working safety sensor (thermocouple or flame sensor). If it keeps going out, the usual culprits are: • Dirty or misaligned pilot orifice that restricts gas flow. • A failing thermocouple that no longer signals the gas valve to stay open. • Downdrafts or lack of combustion air, common in Rockford’s windy winters. • Moisture or condensation dripping onto the flame when the burner cools. • A weak gas regulator or partially closed gas shut-off valve. Diagnosing which of these applies generally requires a visual inspection, cleaning, and a few simple meter readings—services a licensed Rockford plumber can complete in one visit.
How do I safely relight the pilot light on my tank water heater?
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the water-heater label, but the general procedure is: 1. Turn the gas control knob to OFF and wait at least 5 minutes so unburned gas dissipates. 2. Set the knob to PILOT, press the pilot button, and use the built-in igniter (or a long lighter if required) to spark the flame. 3. Keep the button depressed 30-60 seconds so the thermocouple heats and tells the gas valve it is safe to stay on. 4. Release the button, turn the control to ON, and replace the access panel. If the flame won’t stay lit after two tries, stop and call a professional; repeated attempts can flood the chamber with gas, creating a fire hazard.
When should I call a Rockford plumber instead of relighting the pilot myself?
Call a professional if: • You smell gas even with the control in the OFF position. • The pilot light goes out more than twice in a month. • The flame is yellow or flickering instead of steady blue, indicating incomplete combustion. • You find rust flakes, water stains, or soot around the burner compartment. • Your heater is over 10 years old and you’ve never replaced the thermocouple. Certified plumbers have combustion analyzers and gas-leak detectors to pinpoint issues quickly and keep your home safe.
How much does it cost in the Rockford area to repair a faulty pilot assembly or thermocouple?
Prices vary by model, but typical 2024 ranges are: • Service-call diagnosis: $90–$120. • Thermocouple or flame sensor replacement: $20–$60 for parts, 30–60 minutes labor ($50–$80). • Complete pilot assembly or gas-control valve: $120–$250 parts, 1–2 hours labor. • If the tank itself is leaking, a full replacement ($900–$1,600 installed) is usually more economical than repairing the pilot system. Many Rockford homeowners find a same-day repair runs $150–$250 total when no major parts beyond the thermocouple are needed.
Can cold Rockford winters affect my water heater’s pilot light?
Yes. Sub-zero temperatures can: • Create downdrafts in vent piping that blow out the flame. • Increase condensation in the flue, dripping water onto the burner. • Lower gas pressure in older neighborhood mains during peak demand. Keeping the vent cap clear of snow, adding a draft hood, and insulating the vent run inside unheated spaces help protect the pilot. Annual tune-ups each fall also ensure the burner and pilot orifice stay clean for the heating season.
Should I upgrade to an electronic-ignition or tankless water heater instead of repairing a standing-pilot unit?
It depends on budget and usage: • Electronic-ignition models eliminate the always-on pilot, saving roughly 5–10% in gas each year and reducing nuisance outages. • High-efficiency tankless units save 20–40% in energy and provide endless hot water, but cost more upfront ($2,500–$3,800 installed in Rockford). • If your current tank is under 8 years old and structurally sound, a $200 pilot repair is usually the most economical route. • If it is 10–12 years old or you’ve had multiple repairs, upgrading may qualify for federal tax credits and ComEd/Nicor energy rebates. A licensed plumber can compare payback periods so you can make an informed choice.