Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit? Here’s Why
When a water heater pilot light won’t stay lit, the cause is most often a faulty thermocouple — the safety sensor that shuts off gas when it doesn’t detect the flame. A dirty pilot tube, a draft, or a failing gas valve can also be to blame. In Westminster, call (443) 247-4113 for same-day gas water heater service.
Why won’t my pilot light stay on?
- Bad thermocouple — the #1 cause; it can’t sense the flame, so it cuts the gas as a safety measure
- Dirty pilot orifice — a clogged tip gives a weak flame
- Draft or venting issue — air movement blows the pilot out
- Failing gas control valve — won’t hold gas to the pilot
- Low gas supply / interruption — confirm other gas appliances work
What you can safely try
- Relight it following the instructions on the tank’s label (turn dial to “Pilot,” hold, ignite).
- Hold the knob long enough — give the thermocouple ~30–60 seconds to heat before releasing.
- Check for drafts near the unit.
⚠️ If you smell gas, stop — leave the house and call your gas utility (and 911 if needed). If the pilot still won’t stay lit after a proper relight, it’s almost always a thermocouple — a quick, affordable pro repair. Don’t keep forcing it.
When to call a pro
A thermocouple replacement, pilot cleaning, or gas-valve repair restores reliable hot water — and a pro confirms safe combustion and venting. We carry common parts and fix most pilot issues same day. Typical repairs run $250–$700. → Gas water heaters
FAQs
Why does my water heater pilot light keep going out?
Most often a failing thermocouple, which shuts off gas when it can’t sense the pilot flame. A dirty pilot tube, a draft, or a bad gas valve can also cause it.
How do I relight a water heater pilot light?
Turn the gas dial to “Pilot,” press and hold the knob, ignite the pilot (or press the igniter), and keep holding ~30–60 seconds before releasing. Follow the label on your tank.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?
A thermocouple replacement is one of the more affordable gas repairs, generally in the $250–$700 range with labor.
Is it safe if my pilot keeps going out?
The safety system is doing its job by cutting gas, but a repeatedly failing pilot should be diagnosed. If you ever smell gas, leave and call your gas utility first.
Related: No hot water · Gas water heaters · Repair
Talk to a local water heater pro
Same-day & emergency service in Westminster & Carroll County, MD.
Call (443) 247-4113