How to Light a Gas Water Heater Pilot Light: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Turn Off the Gas Supply

  • Locate the gas control valve on your water heater.

  • Turn the valve to the “OFF” position.

  • Wait at least 5 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate.

2. Access the Pilot Light Assembly

  • Remove the access panel at the bottom of the water heater to expose the burner and pilot light assembly.

3. Set the Control to ‘Pilot’

  • Turn the gas control knob to the “PILOT” position.

  • Press and hold down the control knob to start the flow of gas to the pilot.

4. Ignite the Pilot Light

  • Hold down the control knob on pilot. While repeatingly pressing the pilot button for about a minute until you see a flashing LED light

5. Release and Set to ‘On’

  • Slowly release the control knob.

  • If the pilot light remains lit, then turn the gas control knob in between B & C. (120 F)

7. Replace the Access Panel

  • Securely replace the access panel to its original position.