Rheem Water Heater Pilot Light Wont Light: Troubleshooting Tips

If your Rheem water heater’s pilot light won’t light, it may be due to a faulty thermocouple or a clogged pilot tube. To troubleshoot this issue, you can try cleaning the pilot tube with compressed air or replacing the thermocouple with a new one.

Additionally, make sure to check the gas supply and ensure it is on. Always exercise caution when working with gas appliances and consider seeking professional assistance if you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing the troubleshooting steps yourself.

Common Reasons Rheem Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Light

When your Rheem water heater pilot light won’t light, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. There are several common reasons why this might be happening. By understanding these issues, you can troubleshoot the problem and get your water heater working again. Here are some of the most frequent issues that can cause a Rheem water heater pilot light not to light:

Gas Supply Issues

If your Rheem water heater pilot light won’t light, the first thing to check is the gas supply. Ensure that the gas valve is fully open and that there are no obstructions in the gas line. Sometimes, the gas supply may be interrupted due to a problem with the gas line or valve. Additionally, low gas pressure can also prevent the pilot light from igniting. It’s important to have a professional technician inspect the gas supply to ensure everything is in working order.

Faulty Thermocouple

A faulty thermocouple is a common reason for a Rheem water heater pilot light not lighting. The thermocouple is a safety device that detects if the pilot light is lit and allows gas to flow to the burner. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may not send the signal to allow the gas to flow, preventing the pilot light from igniting. In such cases, the thermocouple may need to be replaced by a qualified technician.

Clogged Pilot Orifice

Another common reason for a Rheem water heater pilot light not lighting is a clogged pilot orifice. Over time, dirt, dust, or debris can accumulate in the pilot orifice, obstructing the flow of gas. This prevents the pilot light from igniting. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the pilot orifice can prevent this issue. If the orifice is clogged, it will need to be cleaned by a professional to restore proper function.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you’re having trouble lighting the pilot light on your Rheem water heater, try checking the gas supply and ensuring the pilot light is free from debris and dust. You can also try relighting the pilot light following the manufacturer’s instructions.

If these troubleshooting tips don’t work, it’s best to contact a professional for assistance.

Check Gas Supply

One of the most common reasons why a Rheem water heater pilot light won’t light is due to a disrupted gas supply. Without a steady flow of gas, the pilot light will not ignite. To troubleshoot this issue, follow these steps:

1. Check if the gas valve is fully open. Make sure the handle is turned parallel to the pipe to ensure proper gas flow.
2. If the gas valve is on and the pilot light still won’t light, check if other gas appliances in your home are working. If they’re not, it’s likely a gas supply issue that you should contact your gas utility provider about.
3. If other gas appliances are working, check the condition of the gas supply line leading to the water heater. Look for any kinks, bends, or leaks in the line. If you notice any issues, it’s best to consult a professional plumber for repairs.

Inspect Thermocouple

The thermocouple is a safety device that senses if the pilot light is lit. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may prevent the pilot light from staying lit. To inspect the thermocouple, follow these steps:

• Locate the thermocouple, which is a copper rod near the pilot light.
• Check if the thermocouple is properly connected to the gas control valve. Ensure it is tightly screwed in place.
• If the thermocouple appears damaged or worn out, it may need to be replaced. Contact a professional plumber for assistance with this task.

Clean Pilot Orifice

The pilot orifice can become clogged over time with dust, dirt, or debris, preventing the pilot light from igniting. Cleaning the pilot orifice can often resolve this issue. Here’s how:

1. Turn off the gas supply to the water heater.
2. Locate the pilot orifice, which is a small opening where the pilot flame exits.
3. Using a small wire brush or compressed air, carefully clean the pilot orifice to remove any blockages.
4. Once cleaned, turn the gas supply back on and attempt to relight the pilot light.

If you’ve followed these troubleshooting tips and your Rheem water heater pilot light still won’t light, it may be best to consult a professional plumber who can diagnose and resolve the issue efficiently and safely.

Safety Precautions

Ensuring safety is paramount when dealing with a Rheem Water Heater whose pilot light won’t light. Follow these essential safety precautions to prevent accidents and ensure a safe troubleshooting process.

Turn Off Gas Supply

Before attempting to relight the pilot light, locate the gas supply valve near the water heater and turn it off completely.

Wait For Gas To Dissipate

After turning off the gas supply, wait for at least 10-15 minutes for any remaining gas to dissipate from the area around the water heater.

Seeking Professional Assistance

If your Rheem water heater’s pilot light won’t light, it may be time to seek professional assistance. In some cases, troubleshooting the issue yourself may not produce a resolution. In such situations, reaching out to Rheem customer service or hiring a certified technician can help address the problem effectively.

Contacting Rheem Customer Service

If you encounter difficulties in lighting the pilot of your Rheem water heater, consider reaching out directly to Rheem’s customer service department. Rheem offers dedicated support to assist customers with technical issues, including problems related to pilot lights not igniting. By contacting their customer service, you can get valuable guidance and solutions to address the issue with your water heater.

Hiring A Certified Technician

When the pilot light of your Rheem water heater refuses to light, it may be necessary to hire a certified technician with expertise in water heater repair. Skilled professionals possess the necessary knowledge and tools to diagnose and remedy the specific reasons behind the failure of the pilot light to ignite. Trustworthy technicians can ensure the problem is effectively resolved, restoring your water heater’s functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions Of Rheem Water Heater Pilot Light Wont Light

Why Is My Rheem Hot Water Not Igniting?

If your Rheem hot water is not igniting, there could be a few reasons why. Check if the gas supply is on, the pilot light is lit, or if there is sufficient air flow. It is recommended to consult a professional plumber to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

What Would Cause Water Heater Pilot Not To Light?

Possible causes for a water heater pilot not lighting include a faulty thermocouple, gas supply issues, or dirty pilot orifice.

Why Did The Pilot Light Go Out On My Rheem Water Heater?

The pilot light may go out on your Rheem water heater due to a dirty or clogged burner, insufficient gas supply, or a malfunctioning thermocouple. Regular maintenance and professional inspection can help prevent this issue.

How Do You Light The Pilot Light On A Rheem Water Heater?

To light the pilot light on a Rheem water heater, follow these steps: 1. Locate the gas control valve. 2. Turn the valve to the “Off” position. 3. Wait for 5 minutes for any gas to disperse. 4. Turn the gas control valve to the “Pilot” position.

5. Press and hold the reset button. 6. Use a lighter to ignite the pilot. 7. Continue to hold the reset button for 60 seconds, then release. 8. Finally, turn the gas control valve to the “On” position.

Conclusion

If your Rheem water heater pilot light won’t light, there are several possible causes and solutions to consider. From checking the gas supply and the pilot light assembly to replacing faulty components, troubleshooting the issue can help restore your hot water supply.

Remember to follow safety precautions and consult a professional if needed. With these steps, you can address the problem effectively and enjoy the benefits of a fully functional water heater.