The basic steps to light a pilot light
To light the pilot on a gas heater, you will turn the gas control knob to the "Pilot" position, hold down the ignition button while holding a lit lighter or match to the pilot opening, and keep the button pressed for 30 to 60 seconds after the flame appears. Once the thermocouple senses the heat, release the button. If the pilot stays lit, turn the knob to "On" to restore heat to your home.
The exact location of the pilot opening and the shape of the control knob vary by heater model, so check your manual or the label on the heater itself before you start. Most gas heaters have these controls on the front of the combustion chamber or on the side of the burner assembly.
If you smell gas at any point, stop when ready, turn the knob to "Off", open windows, and leave the house. Do not use electrical switches or create sparks. Call your gas company's emergency line from outside.
Key Takeaways
- Turn the gas control knob to "Pilot", then press and hold the ignition button while lighting the pilot opening with a lighter or match.
- Keep the ignition button pressed for 30 to 60 seconds after the flame appears so the thermocouple can heat up and hold the valve open.
- Once you release the button and the pilot stays lit, turn the knob to "On" to restore full heat to the heater.
- If the pilot will not stay lit after three attempts, or if you smell gas, stop and contact a technician or your gas company.
Locating the pilot light and control knob on your heater
The pilot light sits inside the combustion chamber, usually at the bottom or side of the burner assembly. You will see a small opening or tube pointing toward where the flame should appear. The gas control knob is mounted on the front or side of the heater's control panel, often labeled with positions for "Off", "Pilot", and "On".
Some heaters have the ignition button built into the knob itself; others have a separate push button nearby. If you cannot find these parts, look for a diagram on the heater's exterior panel or inside the access door. The manual that came with your heater will show the exact layout for your model.
Why the pilot light goes out and when to relight it
A pilot light can go out because of a draft, a faulty thermocouple, a gas supply interruption, or straightforward age. If your heater stops producing heat and you hear the burner trying to ignite but failing, the pilot is likely out. You may also see the heater's status light blinking or staying dark.
Relighting the pilot is the first troubleshooting step. If the pilot lights easily and stays lit, your heater should resume normal operation. If it goes out again within a few minutes, the thermocouple may be failing and will need replacement by a technician.
What to do if the pilot light will not stay lit
If the pilot light goes out as soon as you release the ignition button, the thermocouple is not sensing the heat properly. Try lighting it again, but this time hold the button down for a full 60 seconds. Make sure the flame is touching the tip of the thermocouple, which is a thin metal rod near the pilot opening.
If the pilot still will not hold after three attempts, stop trying. A thermocouple that does not respond to heat needs to be replaced, and this requires a technician. Continuing to attempt relighting will waste gas and delay getting your heater working again.
Safety steps before you begin
Before you light the pilot, turn off the heater at the thermostat and wait five minutes for any residual gas to clear. Make sure the area around the heater is well-ventilated and free of clutter. Keep the manual or a photo of the control panel nearby so you know which knob and button to use.
Never use an electric igniter, spark gun, or any device that creates an electrical spark near the pilot opening. Use only a long-handled lighter or a long match so your hand stays away from the flame. If you have never done this before and feel unsure, a technician can light the pilot for you and show you how to do it next time.
When to call a technician instead of relighting yourself
Call a technician if you smell gas before or during the relighting process, if the pilot will not light after three attempts, if the pilot lights but goes out when ready, or if the heater still does not produce heat after the pilot is lit. You should also contact a technician if the control knob is stuck, if you cannot locate the pilot opening, or if the heater is making unusual noises.
A technician can diagnose whether the problem is a thermocouple, a gas valve, a blocked pilot tube, or something else. Attempting to fix these parts yourself can damage the heater or create a safety hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I hold the ignition button down?
Hold the button for 30 to 60 seconds after the flame appears. This gives the thermocouple time to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open. If you release too early, the pilot will go out as soon as you let go.
What if I cannot reach the pilot opening with my lighter?
Use a long-handled lighter or a long match instead. If the opening is still out of reach, a technician can light it for you. Do not attempt to modify the heater or reach into tight spaces with your hand.
Is it normal for the pilot to go out sometimes?
An occasional pilot outage from a strong draft or a power surge is normal. If the pilot goes out multiple times a week or stays out after you relight it, the thermocouple or gas valve likely needs service from a technician.
Can I light the pilot if the power is out?
Yes. The pilot light uses only gas and a match or lighter, so it does not need electricity. However, the heater's blower and thermostat may not work without power, so the heat will not circulate through your home.
What does it mean if the pilot lights but the main burner does not ignite?
The pilot is working, but the gas valve that controls the main burner is not opening. This usually means the thermostat is set too low, the thermostat batteries are dead, or the gas valve itself is faulty. Check the thermostat first, then contact a technician if the burner still does not ignite.