If you own a gas water heater, you may have experienced the frustration of the pilot light going out and not staying lit. This can be a common problem for homeowners, but it’s essential to understand why it’s happening and how to fix it. Linn Benton Plumbing lists the reasons why the pilot light won’t stay lit and when to call for professional water heater repair in Albany, OR.
FAULTY THERMOCOUPLE
A thermocouple is a safety device that senses whether the pilot light is on or off. If it detects that the pilot light is off, it shuts off the gas supply to the water heater to prevent a gas leak. If it’s malfunctioning, however, it may not sense the pilot light’s presence. This shuts off the gas supply, causing the pilot light to go out. In this case, call for water heater services to replace the faulty thermocouple.
DIRTY OR CLOGGED PILOT TUBE
A pilot tube is a small metal tube that supplies gas to the pilot light. Over time, the pilot tube can become clogged with dirt and debris, obstructing the gas flow. If this happens, the pilot light may not get enough gas to stay lit. The good news is that it only requires a simple fix. Have a seasoned plumber clean the pilot tube to get your hot water heater up and running again.
WEAK GAS SUPPLY
If the gas supply to your water heater installation is insufficient, the pilot light may not stay lit. This can happen if the gas valve is partially closed or there is a problem with the gas line. If you suspect this is the issue, have an expert inspect the gas supply.
DRAFT
A draft in the room where the water heater is can cause the pilot light to go out. Similarly, if the air intake or exhaust vents are blocked, it can disrupt airflow and affect the pilot light. To prevent this, ensure the room is well-ventilated and the vents clear.
If the pilot light can’t stay lit or you have a broken hot water heater, don’t hesitate to reach out to Linn Benton Plumbing. We will take the necessary steps to diagnose and fix the problem to restore your unit in no time. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
