Lighting a Rheem Pilot Light: The Basic Steps

To light the pilot on a Rheem water heater, turn the gas control knob to the "Pilot" position, hold down the ignition button while holding a lit match or lighter to the pilot burner opening for 30 to 60 seconds, then release the button. Once the pilot flame appears steady and blue, turn the knob to "On" and wait five minutes to confirm the flame stays lit. If the pilot goes out after you release the button, the thermocouple—a safety device that senses heat—may need cleaning or replacement.

The entire process takes about two minutes if the pilot lights on the first attempt. Most Rheem units have the gas control knob and ignition button on the front of the water heater's lower panel, clearly labeled. Keep the access panel open during lighting so you can see the pilot burner and flame.

Key Takeaways

  • Turn the gas control knob to "Pilot," press and hold the ignition button, and hold a flame to the pilot opening for 30 to 60 seconds until the pilot lights.
  • After the pilot ignites, keep holding the button for another 30 seconds so the thermocouple heats up and holds the flame open.
  • If the pilot lights but goes out when you release the button, the thermocouple is likely dirty or faulty and needs attention.
  • Never force the gas control knob or ignition button; if either feels stuck, stop and contact a technician rather than risk damage.
  • A healthy pilot flame is blue with a small yellow tip; a flame that is mostly yellow or orange suggests a dirty burner.

Locate the Gas Control Knob and Ignition Button

Open the lower access panel on the front of your Rheem water heater. You will see a metal box mounted on the side of the tank—this is the gas control valve. The knob on this box has three positions: "Off," "Pilot," and "On." Below or beside the knob is a red or black button labeled "Ignition" or with a spark symbol.

Some Rheem models have the ignition button integrated into the knob itself; you push inward while turning. Check your water heater's label or manual to confirm the exact layout. If you cannot locate these controls, the unit may have an electronic ignition system instead of a manual pilot light, which does not require hand-lighting.

Turn the Knob to Pilot and Prepare to Ignite

Rotate the gas control knob clockwise to the "Pilot" position. Do not force it—it should turn smoothly. At this setting, a small amount of gas flows to the pilot burner but not to the main burner.

Gather a long lighter or long matches before you begin. A standard match or lighter works, but a long-reach lighter keeps your hand farther from the flame and the hot water heater. Have these ready within arm's reach so you do not have to hunt for them once you start the process.

Hold the Button and Light the Pilot Flame

Press and hold the ignition button with one hand. With your other hand, hold the lit match or lighter flame directly to the pilot burner opening. The opening is usually a small brass or steel tube pointing downward inside the burner chamber. You should see a small blue flame appear within 5 to 10 seconds.

Continue holding the button and the flame to the pilot for a full 30 to 60 seconds after the pilot ignites. This allows the thermocouple to heat up enough to stay open and keep the gas flowing. If you release the button too early, the flame will go out when ready. A properly heated thermocouple will hold the pilot open for at least 30 seconds after you let go of the button.

Release the Button and Confirm the Flame Holds

After 60 seconds, slowly release the ignition button while keeping the lighter or match near the pilot flame for a few more seconds. The flame should remain steady and blue. If it goes out within a few seconds of releasing the button, the thermocouple is not heating properly. Wait one minute, then repeat the process, holding the button longer this time—up to 90 seconds.

If the pilot lights and stays lit after you release the button, turn the gas control knob to "On." The main burner should ignite within a few seconds, and you will hear a soft whoosh as the larger flame starts. Wait five minutes and check that the pilot flame is still visible through the access window or opening. A steady blue flame means the pilot is working correctly.

Troubleshoot if the Pilot Won't Stay Lit

If the pilot lights but goes out when you release the button, the thermocouple is likely the problem. A thermocouple is a thin metal rod that sits in the pilot flame and generates a small electrical signal that tells the gas valve to stay open. When it gets dirty or fails, it cannot sense the heat and the valve closes, shutting off the gas.

To clean the thermocouple, turn the knob to "Off," wait five minutes for the unit to cool, then locate the thermocouple—a thin rod about 4 inches long near the pilot burner. Gently rub the tip with fine steel wool or a soft cloth to remove any soot or buildup. Wipe away debris and try lighting the pilot again. If cleaning does not work, the thermocouple needs replacement, which requires a technician.

If the pilot will not light at all after multiple attempts, the problem may be a clogged pilot opening, a gas supply issue, or a faulty ignition system. Turn the knob to "Off" and contact a Rheem-certified technician or a licensed plumber who services water heaters.

Safety Checks Before and After Lighting

Before you begin, make sure the area around the water heater is clear of flammable materials—paper, cloth, cleaning supplies, and cardboard should be at least three feet away. may support the room has adequate ventilation; gas water heaters produce carbon monoxide, which must be vented safely outdoors through the flue pipe at the top of the tank.

After the pilot is lit and the main burner is on, check that you smell no gas. A faint rotten-egg smell near the water heater indicates a gas leak. If you detect a leak, turn the gas control knob to "Off" when ready, leave the house, and call your gas company's emergency line from outside. Do not use electrical switches, phones, or lighters indoors if you suspect a gas leak.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I hold the ignition button?

Hold the button for 30 to 60 seconds after the pilot flame appears. This gives the thermocouple time to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open. If you release too early, the flame will go out. If the pilot still goes out after 60 seconds, try again and hold for up to 90 seconds.

What color should the pilot flame be?

A healthy pilot flame is blue with a small yellow or orange tip at the very top. If the flame is mostly yellow or orange, the burner opening is dirty and needs cleaning. A flame that is very small or flickers may indicate low gas pressure or a thermocouple problem.

Can I light the pilot if the water heater is brand new?

Yes. New Rheem water heaters often arrive with the gas valve in the "Off" position. Follow the same steps: turn to "Pilot," hold the button, light the flame, and hold for 60 seconds. Check your manual for any specific instructions for first-time startup, as some models may have additional steps.

What if the ignition button does not click or spark?

If you press the button and hear no clicking sound and see no spark, the ignition system may be broken or the battery (if it is battery-powered) may be dead. Try replacing the battery if your model uses one. If there is still no spark, you will need to use a match or lighter instead, or contact a technician if the unit has an electronic ignition system that cannot be bypassed.

Is it safe to light the pilot myself, or should I call a technician?

Lighting a pilot light is a safe, routine task that most homeowners can do. However, if the pilot will not stay lit after multiple attempts, if you smell gas, or if you are uncomfortable working near the water heater, contact a licensed technician. Never force any controls or attempt repairs beyond relighting the pilot.