Waking up to a cold shower usually sends you down a Google rabbit hole about how to relight gas hot water pilot light and whether you should be doing it at all. The good news is that most systems are relatively straightforward once you know what you’re dealing with. The bad news? Not every system even has a pilot light, and not every fault can be fixed with a quick flick of a switch.
This guide cuts through the noise and explains how to identify your system, how to relight the pilot safely, and what to do if the pilot light won’t stay lit, which is often the sign of a deeper problem.
Before You Begin: Does Your System Actually Have A Pilot Light?
A surprising number of people search for relighting steps only to discover their system isn’t the type that uses a constant flame. A quick rundown:
- Old gas storage hot water systems usually have a pilot light
- New gas storage systems may have electronic ignition
- Continuous flow (instantaneous) units are often electronic ignition, no pilot
- Heat pumps will have no pilot light
- Solar with gas boost, sometimes yes, depending on model
Important Safety Notes
Relighting the pilot light can be a simple task but it is essential to follow safety guidelines carefully and to take into consideration the specifications of your hot water system. If you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the pilot light. This can indicate a gas leak so you should leave the premises and contact emergency services or a gas supplier. You should also ensure that the area around your heater is well-ventilated and refer to the manufacturer’s instructions which can be located on the unit. The instructions will generally be printed on a label near the control panel.
Before you start, it is essential to understand how to relight gas hot water pilot light safely and what signs might suggest a deeper fault. If you’re ever unsure about gas safety, NSW Fair Trading provides clear guidance on how to handle gas appliances safely. You can also refer to Australian Gas Networks for general safety information about pilot lights and gas appliances.
A few obvious but essential points:
- If you smell gas, do not attempt to ignite anything
- Ventilate the area and step back
- Contact your gas supplier or emergency services
- Don’t relight anything if the unit is visibly damaged
If everything seems normal, proceed but don’t rush. Gas needs time to clear before you try to restart anything.
How To Relight Gas Hot Water Pilot Light (Step-by-Step)
These instructions cover the general process used on most older gas storage systems. If your system uses a spark igniter rather than a match, the steps are similar.
1. Turn Off the Gas Control Valve
You will need to locate the gas control knob on the front or bottom of the unit (depending on design). Ensure that it is turned to the “Off” position and leave the system for 5-10 minutes to allow the residual gas to clear from the chamber of the system.
2. Access the Pilot Light Assembly
Next, you will want to open the access panel which is in the bottom of the water heater. You should now be able to see the pilot light assembly, which generally includes a small burner and gas line.
3. Set the Control to “Pilot”
Now turn the gas control knob to the “Pilot” position. This may require the knob being pressed down and held in position in order for the gas to flow through to the pilot light.
4. Ignite the Pilot Light
There are two methods for igniting the pilot light. For a manual ignition, you should use a long-reach lighter(or match) to ignite the pilot light whilst holding the gas control knob in the “Pilot” position. For an electronic ignition, you should only need to press the igniter button and remain holding the gas control knob on “Pilot”. If your system has electronic ignition, it may also make a clicking sound to indicate that it’s working.
5. Hold the Knob for 30-60 Seconds
After the pilot light is lit, continue holding down the knob for 30 to 60 seconds. This gives the thermocouple time to heat up and begins generating the signal that tells the gas valve to stay open. Then you should be able to slowly release the knob.
If the pilot stays lit, move on to the next step. If it goes out, you can try to repeat steps 3–5.
6. Turn the Knob to “On”
Once the pilot flame remains steady, you should turn the gas control knob back to the “On” position. You should be able to hear the main burner ignite shortly after this, and you can replace the access panel to secure the opening.
7. Set the Thermostat
Now you can adjust the temperature setting on the thermostat to your preferred level. Most systems are set between 49°C to 60°C for safety and efficiency.
Why Your Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit
If your pilot light won’t stay lit, relighting it over and over won’t fix the root cause. Common reasons include:
A faulty or dirty thermocouple
If the thermocouple can’t detect heat, it shuts the gas valve as a safety measure.
A blocked burner assembly
Dust, debris or rust can prevent proper airflow.
A faulty ignition system
Electronic igniters can loosen, crack, or lose wiring connection.
Weak gas supply
Anything from a failing regulator to a half-open gas cock can cause inconsistent flow.
Strong drafts
Older outdoor systems with poor shielding often get their pilot blown out by wind.
If any of these sound likely, forcing the unit to relight isn’t going to fix much. Our plumbers can check why you needed to look up how to relight gas hot water pilot light, and fix any underlying issues.
When Not to Relight the Pilot Yourself
Some situations call for walking away rather than trying again. Don’t attempt to:
- Relight pilot light gas hot water system components if you smell gas
- Spark the igniter repeatedly if you’ve already waited the recommended clearing time
- Keep trying to relight gas water heater pilot flames that repeatedly go out
- Poke around the burner assembly if you haven’t handled gas appliances before
If you’re hesitating, that’s usually your answer.
When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve followed the steps, run a basic gas hot water system pilot light reset, and the flame still won’t hold, you’ve moved past DIY territory.
A licensed plumber can check:
- Thermocouple health
- Ignition wiring
- Burner blockages
- Gas supply pressure
- Age-related component failures
These faults aren’t usually expensive to diagnose, and they’re often cheaper to fix early before the system gives out completely.
Still Need Help?
Alternatively, if you have followed the steps and you are still having troubles with your hot water, you may require the assistance of a professional. If you’ve tried relighting gas hot water pilot light and it still won’t stay lit, something inside the system is likely failing.
At Hunter Eco Plumbing, we are here to help with your residential and commercial plumbing needs. Our team of specialist hot water system plumbers can install, repair, service or replace your hot water system. From diagnostics and repairs to full system replacements, we can ensure that your gas hot water system runs safely and reliably.
Contact Hunter Eco Plumbing today and our expert team can assess your setup, provide practical solutions, and help you maintain a dependable and energy-efficient hot water supply.
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