No hot water at all, gas Giant water heater – pilot will not light or stay lit (standing pilot models)

Safety first: Turn gas control knob to OFF and wait at least 5 minutes to clear any accumulated gas. Do not attempt to light if you smell strong gas—leave the area and call your gas supplier.

• Inspect pilot flame: Remove the burner access cover and observe the pilot assembly while attempting to light. The flame should be steady and envelop the thermocouple tip.
• Clean pilot orifice: If the pilot flame is weak or yellow, turn gas OFF, disassemble the pilot tube at the burner, and gently clean the orifice with compressed air. Do not enlarge the hole.
• Check thermocouple: Ensure the thermocouple tip is properly positioned in the pilot flame and the connection at the Giant gas control valve is snug.
• Replace thermocouple: If the pilot lights but goes out when you release the control knob, replace the Giant thermocouple.
• Gas valve diagnosis: If a new thermocouple does not solve the issue, the gas control valve may be defective and should be replaced by a licensed gas technician.