Gas hot water systems rely on a pilot light to ignite the main burner and heat the water. If your pilot light goes out or won’t stay lit, it can disrupt your hot water supply and potentially create safety hazards. This guide will help Sydney and New South Wales homeowners troubleshoot common pilot light issues and provide essential safety tips.
Troubleshooting a Pilot Light That Won’t Stay Lit:
- Check for Gas Supply: Ensure the gas valve to your water heater is turned on. If you recently had work done on your gas lines, there might be an interruption in the supply.
- Clean the Pilot Light Orifice: Dust, debris, or corrosion can block the pilot light orifice, preventing gas from flowing properly. Use a small brush or compressed air to gently clean the orifice.
- Inspect the Thermocouple: The thermocouple is a safety device that senses the pilot light flame and allows gas to flow to the main burner. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may be shutting off the gas supply. A qualified gasfitter should inspect and replace the thermocouple if necessary.
- Check for Drafts: Drafts or air currents can extinguish the pilot light. Make sure the area around the water heater is free from drafts.
- Relight the Pilot Light: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on your water heater to relight the pilot light. This usually involves pressing a button or holding a lighter to the pilot light orifice while turning the gas control knob to the “pilot” position.
Safety Tips:
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around your hot water system to prevent the buildup of gas fumes.
- Gas Leak Detection: If you smell gas, evacuate the premises immediately and call the gas company emergency hotline or 000. Do not attempt to relight the pilot light if you suspect a gas leak.
- Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to provide an early warning of gas leaks.
- Professional Assistance: If you’re unsure about any aspect of your hot water system or if you suspect a gas leak, call a licensed gasfitter for assistance.
TTech Plumbing: Your Gas Hot Water System Experts
At TTech Plumbing, our licensed gasfitters are experienced in handling gas hot water system issues, including pilot light problems. We can diagnose the cause of the issue, repair or replace faulty components, and ensure your system is operating safely and efficiently.
Contact TTech Plumbing today at 0450 848 991 for expert assistance with your hot water system.
Keywords: hot water system, pilot light, gasfitter Sydney, gasfitter NSW, plumbing emergency, hot water repair
