If your furnace or water heater has a pilot light, as many older units often do, you’re probably familiar with the phrase “is the pilot light out?” If you’ve been able to avoid this terrible conundrum thus far, consider yourself lucky — and warm. However, don’t count your blessings just yet! Pilot lights are tricky, and can go out at any time for a number of reasons. That’s why we’re here to help you be prepared if they do.
If you need to relight your pilot light, here are the steps you should take:
Step 1: Turn off the furnace or water heater. This may require fidgeting with your thermostat.
Step 2: Locate your gas valve control knob and set it to “pilot.” You may want to consult with your owner’s manual to make sure you’re turning the correct dials.
Step 3: Push down on the red button, while holding a long-reach match to the pilot burner. Again, you may need to consult your owner’s manual to locate the button and burner.
Step 4: Hold the button for about a minute after lighting to be sure your efforts have worked. You want the pilot light to remain lit once you let go.
Step 5: Once the pilot light is back up and running, return the control knob to “on,” and return any doors or screwed on pieces you removed back to their rightful position.
Seems simple enough, but if you’re having trouble, the folks at Tyler Heating & Air Conditioning are always only a phone call away! Likewise, if you’re able to relight your pilot light, but find it needs to be relighted more than once per season, it’s best to have it inspected by a qualified HVAC technician.
For water heater maintenance and heating repair in Milford, CT and the surrounding areas, call 203-378-4700.
