Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out: How to Fix It

Taking a freezing cold shower because your water heater's pilot light blew out again is miserable. If you find yourself constantly relighting the pilot, there is usually a simple mechanical reason behind it.

1. The Thermocouple is Dirty or Broken

This is the #1 reason a pilot light won't stay lit. The thermocouple is a small copper rod that sits directly in the pilot flame. When it gets hot, it sends an electrical signal to the gas valve telling it that it's safe to stay open.

• If it gets coated in soot, it can't sense the heat. Turn off the gas, wait for it to cool, and lightly sand the tip of the thermocouple with emery cloth.
• If cleaning it doesn't work, the thermocouple is dead. Replacing it is a $15 DIY job.

2. A Dirty Air Intake (Modern Heaters)

Modern water heaters have a sealed combustion chamber to prevent fires. Air is pulled in through a screen at the bottom of the tank. If this screen gets clogged with dust or pet hair, the pilot light will literally choke from lack of oxygen.

• Vacuum the bottom of the water heater and the air intake screens thoroughly.

3. Drafts or Venting Issues

If the draft hood on top of the water heater isn't venting properly, a backdraft can blow down the chimney pipe and snuff out the pilot light. Make sure all vent pipes are securely connected and nothing is blocking the chimney on your roof.