State Pilot Ignition Failure (Standing Pilot or Piezo Ignition)

State gas tank-type water heater: no hot water, pilot will not light or stay lit; no digital error code present.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Clogged pilot orifice, Weak thermocouple, Insufficient gas pressure, Drafts blowing out pilot

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Turn gas control knob to OFF and wait at least 5 minutes before attempting to relight. If you smell gas continuously, leave the area and contact your gas supplier.

  • Follow lighting instructions: Use the lighting instructions on the heater label. Ensure you hold the gas control knob down long enough for the thermocouple to heat.
  • Clean pilot: If the pilot flame is small or yellow, have a qualified technician remove and clean the pilot assembly and orifice.
  • Check thermocouple: Ensure the thermocouple tip is properly positioned in the pilot flame. Replace the thermocouple if the pilot will not stay lit despite a strong flame.
  • Check for drafts: Eliminate strong drafts or exhaust fans that may be blowing out the pilot.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Pilot Assembly and Thermocouple
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