How to Light a Pilot Light

Check your heating device or appliance for specific instructions., Turn the gas control valve to "off" and check any surrounding gas appliances for unlit pilots and turn off their gas control valves as well if the pilots are out., Remove the cover...

8 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Check your heating device or appliance for specific instructions.

    Some models have lighting instructions on a sticker on or next to the door.

    If this is the case, follow those directions precisely.

    If your heating device or appliance does not have instructions listed on it, follow the directions for the following household items. , Wait 5-10 minutes for all remaining gas fumes to dissipate.

    If the smell of gas persists or gets worse, evacuate and call for help from another location.

    Do not do anything that can cause a spark on the way out. , This cover is usually below the gas control knob. ,, , Your reset switch can be a red button or lever.

    Hold the switch for 1 minute after the tube lights. , If the pilot still does not stay lit, call a heating technician for service.
  2. Step 2: Turn the gas control valve to "off" and check any surrounding gas appliances for unlit pilots and turn off their gas control valves as well if the pilots are out.

  3. Step 3: Remove the cover or open the door to your furnace if no gas is present.

  4. Step 4: Use a flashlight to find the pilot light tube inside.

  5. Step 5: Use a long lighter or light a long match and hold it next to the light tube while turning the gas control knob to "pilot."

  6. Step 6: Press the reset switch or lever and light the tube.

  7. Step 7: If the pilot does not stay lit

  8. Step 8: repeat the instructions 1-2 more times.

Detailed Guide

Some models have lighting instructions on a sticker on or next to the door.

If this is the case, follow those directions precisely.

If your heating device or appliance does not have instructions listed on it, follow the directions for the following household items. , Wait 5-10 minutes for all remaining gas fumes to dissipate.

If the smell of gas persists or gets worse, evacuate and call for help from another location.

Do not do anything that can cause a spark on the way out. , This cover is usually below the gas control knob. ,, , Your reset switch can be a red button or lever.

Hold the switch for 1 minute after the tube lights. , If the pilot still does not stay lit, call a heating technician for service.

About the Author

K

Kathryn Gordon

Professional writer focused on creating easy-to-follow home improvement tutorials.

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