Signs of Pilot Light Issues in Water Heaters: A Guide for Fort Worth Residents

Picture this: it’s a chilly morning in Fort Worth, Texas, and you’re eagerly anticipating a hot shower to kickstart your day. But as you turn on the faucet, there’s nothing but icy water trickling out. The culprit might be a malfunctioning pilot light in your water heater. To confirm, here are some signs to look out for so you know when to call Rockwater Plumbing for water heater repair in Fort Worth, TX.

Dim or Flickering Pilot Light

If you’ve got a gas-powered tankless water heater, chances are you’ve got a pilot light. Dim or flickering flames could stem from a variety of issues, such as a dirty or clogged pilot tube, a faulty thermocouple, or insufficient gas supply. As a result, your water heater may struggle to ignite the burner assembly, leading to insufficient heating of the water. In Fort Worth, where temperatures can drop unexpectedly, this can be particularly inconvenient.

The Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

Common culprits include a malfunctioning thermocouple—a safety device designed to shut off the gas supply if it detects a pilot light failure—or a faulty gas valve. Ignoring this issue and neglecting water heater maintenance can lead to further complications and potential safety hazards.

Strange Odors

A faint smell of gas near the appliance could indicate a gas leak, which poses significant safety risks. Gas leaks can occur due to loose connections, damaged gas lines, or faulty components within the water heater. If you detect a gas odor, it’s imperative to take immediate action by turning off the gas supply, ventilating the area, and contacting your gas company and water heater installation technician.

Pilot Light Appears Yellow or Orange

Ideally, your water heater’s pilot light should emit a steady blue flame. If you observe a yellow or orange flame instead, it could signal the presence of contaminants such as dust, dirt, or rust in the burner assembly or combustion chamber. These contaminants can disrupt the combustion process, leading to inefficient heating and potential safety hazards. Additionally, a yellow or orange pilot light may indicate the incomplete combustion of natural gas, which can produce harmful carbon monoxide.

No Hot Water

Without a properly functioning pilot light to ignite the burner assembly, the water heater won’t be able to heat the water effectively. While there could be other causes for this issue, such as a faulty heating element or sediment buildup in the tank, it’s essential to inspect the pilot light as part of the troubleshooting process.

Whether you require water heater replacement, repair, installation, or maintenance services in Fort Worth, it’s advisable to seek assistance from experienced professionals to ensure the safety and efficiency of your water heating system.

Don’t let pilot light problems leave you in the cold — contact Rockwater Plumbing today to restore comfort and convenience to your home.