Why Does My Water Heater’s Pilot Light Keep Going Out?

The pilot light is a small flame designed to ignite the main burner, and when it fails repeatedly, it usually signals an underlying problem that can affect your home’s hot water supply. The Plumbing Doc handles water heater repair in Bakersfield, CA, helping pinpoint these problems quickly to restore reliable service.

The Thermocouple: The Most Likely Suspect

The thermocouple is a small copper rod that sits right in the pilot flame. Its job is to detect heat and signal the gas valve to stay open. When it fails or becomes coated in residue, it sends a weak or incorrect signal, and the gas valve shuts off as a safety response.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, thermocouples have a typical lifespan of 6 to 10 years, depending on usage and water quality. If yours is older or visibly bent away from the flame, replacement is usually the right call.

Signs the thermocouple may be failing include:

• The pilot lights but goes out within 30 to 60 seconds
• The flame appears weak or yellowish instead of blue
• The unit is over 8 years old and has never had a thermocouple replacement

Other Reasons the Flame Won’t Stay Lit

The thermocouple isn’t always the whole story. A few other issues can cause the same problem:

• Dirty pilot orifice. Dust, mineral buildup, and debris can partially block the small hole that feeds gas to the pilot. This results in a weak flame that can’t adequately heat the thermocouple.

• Gas supply issues. A partially closed gas valve, low gas pressure from the utility, or a failing gas control valve can all starve the pilot of the fuel it needs to stay lit.

• Draft or airflow problems. If your water heater sits in a utility closet with poor ventilation, or near an HVAC vent that creates back-drafts, the flame can be extinguished repeatedly by moving air.

• Sediment buildup in the tank. Over time, mineral deposits settle at the bottom of the tank and cause the unit to work harder. This added stress can affect overall combustion performance and accelerate wear on components. This is also one of the strongest arguments for timely water heater replacement rather than ongoing patchwork repairs.

When to Repair vs. When to Replace

Not every pilot light issue calls for a full replacement. A thermocouple swap or a cleaned orifice is relatively inexpensive and extends the life of an otherwise healthy unit. However, if your water heater is past the 10-to-12-year mark, the repairs start to add up fast. The American Home Shield and the Water Quality Association both note that most tank-style water heaters have a functional lifespan of 8 to 12 years. If you’re repeatedly dealing with pilot issues on an aging unit, a new water heater installation often ends up being the more economical path.

You Asked, We Answered: Pilot Light FAQs

Can I relight the pilot myself?

Yes, most water heaters have relighting instructions printed on the unit. Turn the knob to “Pilot,” press and hold it while igniting, then hold for 30 to 60 seconds before releasing. If it won’t stay lit after two attempts, stop and call a technician.

Is a repeatedly failing pilot light a gas leak risk?

Not directly, but it can be a sign that gas is intermittently escaping without igniting. If you smell gas at any point, leave the area immediately and call your gas utility before anything else.

Does a tankless water heater have a pilot light?

Most modern tankless units use electronic ignition and do not have a standing pilot light. If you’ve been considering going tankless, our water heater services cover both tank and tankless systems, so we can help you maintain or transition to whichever setup fits your home.

How long should relighting the pilot actually take?

Under five minutes if the unit is in good condition. If it takes longer or requires multiple attempts, that’s a sign the thermocouple or gas valve needs attention.

Will my energy bill go up if the pilot keeps going out and relighting?

A standing pilot uses roughly 5 to 8 therms of gas per month on its own. Repeated relighting doesn’t significantly add to that, but the root cause, such as a struggling gas valve or poor combustion, can affect overall efficiency.

Get It Fixed by a Team That’s Been Doing This Since 2004

A pilot light that won’t cooperate is one of those problems that seems small until it isn’t. Our licensed and insured technicians carry high-quality tools and equipment to diagnose and fix the issue right the first time. We offer free estimates with no hidden costs or fees, so you know exactly what you’re working with before any work begins.

Whether you need a quick repair, a full water heater installation, or just a second opinion, we’re available weekdays and holidays, including 24-hour emergency response when you can’t wait. Every job we complete is backed by our workmanship and materials warranties, because we stand behind what we do.

Call The Plumbing Doc today. Your hot water shouldn’t be a guessing game.