One of the most common yet frustrating issues homeowners face is when the pilot light goes out in a hot attic. This problem is especially prevalent in homes where the water heater is located in the attic. This problem can be particularly prevalent in homes where the water heater is located in the attic. The extreme heat in attics, especially during the summer months, can cause the pilot light to go out due to a lack of oxygen and other factors. In this blog, we’ll explore why this happens, how it affects your water heater, and most importantly, how to safely relight the pilot light when it goes out.
Why High Attic Temperatures Can Extinguish Your Pilot Light
- Oxygen Deprivation:
Your water heater’s pilot light requires a steady supply of oxygen to stay lit. In an attic, where temperatures can soar above 120°F during the hottest months, the air can become so thin and oxygen-deprived that the pilot light struggles to stay lit. The high heat can cause the air to rise, creating a situation where there isn’t enough oxygen at the level of the pilot light, leading to it being extinguished. For more information on how oxygen levels affect combustion, you can check out this Wikipedia article on Combustion. - Thermocouple Issues:
The thermocouple is a safety device that senses when the pilot light is on. If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple shuts off the gas supply to prevent gas leaks. However, in extremely hot environments like an attic, the thermocouple can become overly sensitive or malfunction, causing it to shut off the gas supply even when the pilot light is on. If this happens often, it’s essential to have a professional inspection to ensure your thermocouple is functioning correctly. - Ventilation Problems:
Poor ventilation in your attic can exacerbate the problem. Without proper airflow, the already hot and oxygen-deprived air can stagnate, making it even more difficult for the pilot light to stay lit. Attics often have limited ventilation, which can trap heat and reduce oxygen levels further, leading to frequent pilot light outages. Consider improving your attic’s ventilation, such as installing additional vents or an attic fan, to help mitigate this issue. For more tips on improving your attic’s ventilation, see the Energy Star guide.
How to Relight Your Pilot Light Safely
If your pilot light goes out due to the high temperatures in your attic, it’s important to relight it safely. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your water heater back up and running:
- Step 1: Safety First
Before attempting to relight the pilot light, ensure that the area around the water heater is well-ventilated. Open any nearby attic windows or access points to allow fresh air in. Make sure there are no gas smells in the area. If you smell gas, do not attempt to relight the pilot light. Instead, shut off the gas supply and contact GPS Plumbing immediately. For general safety tips on handling gas appliances, you can refer to this guide from the American Gas Association.
Step 2: Turn Off the Gas
Locate the gas valve on your water heater and turn it to the “Off” position. This will stop the flow of gas to the pilot light, ensuring a safe environment to work in. Wait at least 5 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate before proceeding.
Step 3: Locate the Pilot Light Assembly
Find the pilot light assembly, which is usually located near the bottom of the water heater. It consists of the pilot light, a gas control valve, and the thermocouple. You may need to remove a small access panel to see the pilot light.
Step 4: Light the Pilot
Turn the gas valve to the “Pilot” position. Press and hold the reset button on the gas control valve, which is usually a red or black button. While holding the button, use a long lighter or match to ignite the pilot light. Continue holding the reset button for 30-60 seconds after the pilot light is lit to ensure that the thermocouple is heated and the pilot light stays on. For a detailed guide on lighting pilot lights, check this resource from This Old House.
Step 5: Turn the Gas Valve Back On
Once the pilot light is lit and stable, release the reset button. Turn the gas valve back to the “On” position. The water heater should start heating again, and the pilot light should remain lit.
Step 6: Monitor the Pilot Light
After relighting the pilot light, monitor it closely for the next few hours to ensure it stays lit. If the pilot light goes out again, there may be a deeper issue that requires professional attention, such as a faulty thermocouple or inadequate ventilation in the attic. Contact GPS Plumbing if you need further assistance.
Preventing Future Pilot Light Outages
To reduce the frequency of pilot light outages in your attic, consider the following preventive measures:
- Improve Ventilation:
Install additional vents or an attic fan to increase airflow and reduce temperatures in the attic. This can help maintain a stable environment for your water heater’s pilot light. Learn more about improving attic ventilation. - Insulate the Attic:
Proper insulation can help regulate attic temperatures, making it less likely for extreme heat to affect your water heater. Consider insulating your attic to protect your water heater and improve overall energy efficiency. - Schedule Regular Maintenance:
Have GPS Plumbing inspect your water heater and its components regularly, especially if it’s located in the attic. We can check the thermocouple, gas valve, and pilot light assembly to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
High attic temperatures can cause your water heater’s pilot light to go out frequently, leading to inconvenience and potential safety hazards. By understanding why this happens and knowing how to safely relight the pilot light, you can keep your water heater running smoothly. If you’re experiencing frequent pilot light outages or have concerns about your water heater’s performance, don’t hesitate to contact GPS Plumbing. Our expert team is here to help with all your plumbing needs. Need professional water heater installation or repair? Trust GPS Plumbing for expert services to keep your home’s hot water flowing efficiently.
from GPS Plumbing.
