If you’ve experienced a sudden lack of hot water in your shower, the first check is whether your water heater uses a pilot light. If it does, and you suddenly have cold water, the pilot light may have gone out. Here’s how to relight it step by step:
- First, turn off the main gas supply to the water heater. This is important for safety reasons, as you don’t want gas flowing while working on the pilot light.
- Next, locate the access panel and gas burner of your water heater. The access panel is typically located near the bottom of the water heater and may be held in place by screws or clips. Once you’ve removed the panel, you should be able to see the gas burner.
- Turn the gas knob on the water heater to the pilot position. A small flame icon on the knob usually indicates this.
- With the gas knob in the pilot position, hold it down while igniting the flame with a lighter or match. You should see the pilot light ignite and start burning.
- Keep the knob held down for about a minute to ensure that the flame stays lit. This is important, as the pilot light needs to burn for a while in order to heat up the thermocouple (a safety device that controls the gas flow).
- After about a minute, turn the gas knob to the on position to light up the main burner. You should hear a whooshing sound as the gas flows to the main burner and ignites.
- Finally, close the access panel. This will help keep the heat inside the water heater and prevent gas leaks.
That’s it! Your pilot light should now be relit, and your water heater should be working again. If you’re still having issues with your water heater, call Archies Plumbing.
5 signs its time to replace your water heater
As a homeowner, keeping your water heater in top condition is important. However, like any appliance, your water heater will only last a while. Here are five signs that it’s time to replace your water heater:
- Age: The average lifespan of a water heater is around 8-12 years. If your water heater is nearing or exceeding this age, it may be time to consider a replacement. Even if your water heater appears to function correctly, it could be on its last legs and fail anytime.
- Rusty Water: If you notice rusty or discolored water coming from your hot water taps, it could be a sign that your water heater is rusting. This rust can cause leaks and other malfunctions, leading to costly repairs or a total replacement.
- Strange Noises: If your water heater makes strange popping or banging noises, it could indicate sediment buildup inside the tank. This buildup causes your water heater to work harder than it needs to, reducing its efficiency and lifespan.
- Leaks: It could indicate a leak if you notice water pooling around your water heater. Even a tiny leak can cause significant damage over time, so addressing the issue as soon as possible is essential.
- Inefficiency: If your water heater isn’t producing as much hot water as it used to or is taking longer to heat up, it could be a sign that it’s becoming less efficient. This inefficiency can cause your energy bills to skyrocket, so addressing the issue before it becomes too costly is essential.
In conclusion, if you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consider replacing your water heater. While a new water heater can be a significant investment, it can save you money in the long run by improving efficiency and reducing the need for costly repairs.
