Most new water heaters have a built-in ignition switch to light the pilot. Refer to the owner’s manual for more details. If your unit is not equipped with an ignition switch, follow these steps:
- Remove the burner access panel.
- Turn the knob on top of the control box to the pilot position.
- Hold a lit fireplace match or barbecue lighter to the pilot access opening.
- Press and hold down the reset button on the control box for 60 seconds after the pilot ignites.
- Turn the knob on top of the control box to the “on” position. You should hear the burner ignite.
- If it doesn’t, remove the access panel and relight the pilot.
- Replace the burner access panel and set the control at a temperature between 118 and 123 degrees.
Make sure your gas water heater is venting properly. Close windows and doors and turn on the nearest hot water faucet. When you hear the water heater’s gas burner ignite, wait one minute and then move a smoking match near the edge of the draft hood. If the smoke doesn’t draw up the vent pipe, the fumes are not venting properly. In this case, open all windows and doors immediately and contact a professional to inspect and fix the venting.