Gas Pilot Light & Ignition Service
When a gas water heater's pilot will not stay lit or the burner will not ignite, the usual causes are a dirty pilot orifice, a failed thermocouple, or a faulty gas control valve. Gas work is not DIY. FlowFast connects you with an independent local plumber who can service your gas ignition safely.
- Connected with an independent local pro — never a call center queue.
- Part of our Water Heater Repair & Installation services — explained up front.
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View all Water Heaters servicesA gas water heater that will not light leaves you with cold water and a pilot assembly that needs expert attention. The pilot is a tiny flame with a big job: it proves to the gas valve that it is safe to open the main burner. When the pilot will not stay lit, the thermocouple — the safety sensor that shuts off gas if the flame dies — is the most common culprit, followed by a clogged pilot orifice. Modern units with electronic ignition skip the standing pilot but add igniters and flame sensors.
FlowFast connects you with an independent local plumber who can service gas ignition problems safely and correctly. The pro will diagnose whether the issue is the thermocouple, pilot assembly, gas control valve, or electronic ignition components, then repair or replace the faulty part. Because this work involves the gas supply and combustion, it is strictly professional territory. If you ever smell gas around the unit, leave the area and call your gas utility first — ignition service comes after the area is safe. Regular maintenance is the cheapest way to protect a water heater investment.
Warning signs
Signs you need this service
- The pilot light will not stay lit, going out repeatedly after being relit. Which usually signals a problem that needs a pro.
- No hot water with the burner never firing, though the gas supply to the house is fine. Ensuring the problem is fully resolved.
- A pilot flame that is weak, yellow, or flickering instead of strong and blue. Which usually signals a problem that needs a pro.
- Clicking ignition attempts with no flame on electronic-ignition models, or repeated error shutdowns. A sign the pro will want to hear about.
What to expect
The process, step by step
The pro verifies there is no gas leak and checks gas supply to the unit before servicing anything. Which prevents callbacks and repeat visits.
The pilot assembly, thermocouple, and gas control are inspected to identify the failed component. Which keeps the work neat and contained.
The faulty part — thermocouple, pilot orifice, igniter, or gas valve — is cleaned or replaced. Keeping you informed at every stage.
The burner is lit and observed through full cycles to confirm reliable ignition and proper flame. Ensuring the problem is fully resolved.
Prevention
How to avoid this problem
- Keep the area around the burner access clean and free of dust, lint, and stored items. And do not skip it.
- Have the burner and pilot assembly inspected during routine water heater maintenance. A habit that pays for itself quickly.
- Never ignore a pilot that keeps going out — it is a symptom, and repeated relighting without diagnosis is unsafe.
Frequently asked questions
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