New Rheem Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Light: Troubleshooting Tips

If your Rheem water heater pilot light won’t light, there are a few possible reasons for this issue. One common cause could be a problem with the gas supply, such as a closed gas valve or a faulty gas control valve.

Additionally, a damaged thermocouple or a malfunctioning spark igniter may also prevent the pilot light from igniting. We will explore these potential causes and provide troubleshooting tips to help you restore the functionality of your Rheem water heater. So, let’s get started to resolve this problem and get your pilot light back up and running in no time!

Common Reasons For Pilot Light Failure

Ignition Issues

If your Rheem water heater’s pilot light won’t light, the problem may be due to ignition issues. This could be caused by a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot orifice, or a damaged ignition system. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring.

Gas Supply Problems

Another common reason for a pilot light not lighting is gas supply problems. This could be due to a closed gas valve, a gas line leak, or insufficient gas pressure. Regularly checking the gas supply and ensuring all connections are secure can help prevent these issues from occurring.

Troubleshooting Steps

If you’re experiencing issues with your new Rheem water heater pilot light not lighting, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step, ensuring that you can get your pilot light up and running again.

Checking For Gas Supply

One of the first things you should do when your Rheem water heater pilot light won’t light is to check the gas supply. Without a steady flow of gas, the pilot light won’t be able to ignite. Follow these simple steps to check the gas supply:

1. Ensure that the gas valve connected to the water heater is turned on. If it’s not, turn it on and wait a few minutes to see if the pilot light ignites.
2. If the gas valve is already on, check the gas shut-off valve outside the water heater. Make sure it’s fully open.
3. If neither of these steps work, you may have a gas supply issue. Consider contacting a professional to inspect your gas lines and ensure there are no leaks or other problems.

Inspecting The Thermocouple

The thermocouple is a safety device that detects the presence of a flame. If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple shuts off the gas supply to prevent a dangerous buildup of gas. Here’s how you can inspect the thermocouple:

1. Locate the thermocouple. It’s a small copper rod that connects to the gas control valve.
2. Check for any signs of damage, such as bending or corrosion. If the thermocouple is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
3. Use a multimeter to test the voltage output of the thermocouple. It should generate around 30 millivolts. If it’s not, it may be faulty and need to be replaced.

Testing The Pilot Orifice

If the gas supply and thermocouple are both in working order, the next step is to test the pilot orifice. This tiny opening allows gas to flow to the pilot light. Follow these steps to test the pilot orifice:

1. Turn off the gas supply to the water heater.
2. Using a wrench, loosen the nut that connects the pilot tube to the gas valve.
3. Carefully remove the pilot tube from the gas valve and inspect the orifice for any clogs or debris. If you spot any blockages, use a small wire brush or compressed air to clean the orifice.
4. Reconnect the pilot tube to the gas valve and tighten the nut. Turn on the gas supply.
5. Try relighting the pilot light again to see if it ignites.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify and resolve any issues preventing your new Rheem water heater pilot light from lighting. Remember to exercise caution and consult a professional if you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing any of these steps. Now you can enjoy hot water again!

Professional Services

If your new Rheem water heater pilot light won’t light, professional services can provide expert troubleshooting and repair. With specialized knowledge and experience, professionals can quickly diagnose and resolve issues, ensuring your water heater operates efficiently and reliably.

Contacting A Licensed Technician

If you encounter issues with your Rheem water heater pilot light, contact a licensed technician for prompt assistance.

Scheduling Regular Maintenance

Ensure continuous performance by scheduling regular maintenance for your water heater. Professional services are essential for troubleshooting water heater issues. Contact a licensed technician for expert assistance. Schedule regular maintenance to ensure your water heater’s optimal performance.

Safety Measures

When dealing with a new Rheem water heater pilot light that won’t light, safety should be your top priority. Here are some essential safety measures to follow before attempting any troubleshooting or repairs.

Turning Off The Gas

Before you do anything, make sure to turn off the gas supply to the water heater. Locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of gas to the unit. This will prevent any potential gas leaks or hazards during the inspection and repair processes.

Ventilating The Area

Before proceeding, open windows and doors to ventilate the area where the water heater is located. This will help to dissipate any lingering gas fumes and provide better air circulation throughout the space. Good ventilation is essential for your safety as you work on diagnosing and addressing the pilot light issue.

Frequently Asked Questions Of New Rheem Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Light

Why Is My Rheem Hot Water Not Igniting?

Your Rheem hot water may not be igniting due to issues with the pilot light or gas supply. Check if the pilot light is lit properly and ensure there is enough gas supply. If the problem persists, contact a professional plumber for assistance.

Why Won’t My New Water Heater Ignite?

A new water heater may not ignite due to gas supply issues, a faulty pilot light, or a malfunctioning thermocouple.

What Would Cause Water Heater Pilot Not To Light?

Possible causes for water heater pilot not lighting include a faulty thermocouple, gas supply issues, or a dirty pilot tube. Checking and replacing these components can resolve the issue.

Why Is My New Rheem Water Heater Not Heating?

The new Rheem water heater may not be heating due to various reasons like a tripped circuit breaker, thermostat issues, or a faulty heating element. Check the circuit breaker, reset if necessary and ensure the thermostat is set correctly. If the problem persists, contact a professional for assistance.

Conclusion

To sum up, troubleshooting a non-lighting pilot light on a new Rheem water heater requires a systematic approach. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can identify and fix any issues preventing the pilot light from igniting.

Regular maintenance and understanding the underlying causes can ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of your water heater. Remember, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with DIY repairs, it’s always best to consult a professional technician for assistance.