How To Relight the Pilot Light on a Boiler

If you have a boiler for your heat source and the pilot light goes out, you might need help figuring out what to do. Below, we’ll explore DIY pilot light fixes, why they go out, and when to call Parker’s for boiler repairs and boiler maintenance.

If you have a manual pilot light:

• Turn the gas knob off and turn off your other gas appliances. Keep your thermostat on its lowest setting.
• Turn off your boiler, which will release excess gas fumes, so wait about 10 to 15 minutes for the smell to dissipate.
• Remove the boiler cover and turn the knob from “off” to “pilot” and then press it down. The gas will start flowing into the pilot light hole.
• Hold a lighter or lit match over the area until you see a blue flame. It takes about a minute.
• If the pilot light goes back out, let go of the knob and repeat the steps. If there is no light, promptly contact us for service.

If you have an automatic pilot light:

• Flick the boiler’s electrical switch off, or go to your breaker panel and switch it off.
• Remove your boiler’s cover and ensure the gas control knob is off. It will release excess gas, so wait 10 to 15 minutes and then turn the knob on.
• Turn your breaker switch or electrical switch back on and listen for the click that the automatic starter is now igniting the pilot light.
• If you do not hear the clicking noise, turn the gas off and contact us immediately for service. NEVER attempt to light an automatic pilot light.

Are you tired of boiler repairs with your older system? Call Parker’s at 615-355-9137 to get your home fitted with a high-quality boiler replacement.

What Is a Boiler Pilot Light & Why Is It Important?

Boilers are home heating systems that use pilot lights and flames to ignite gas for hot water and heat. The pilot light must constantly burn 24/7, and if it goes out, you must deal with it immediately to avoid carbon monoxide leaking into your home or an explosion.

Manual vs. Automatic Pilot Lights

Your boiler’s pilot light might be a manual pilot light with a knob with pilot, on, and off.

For automatic pilot lights, the gas control knob with on and off. NEVER try to manually light the pilot light if you have a boiler with an automatic pilot.

How To Tell if the Pilot Light Is Out

Open your boiler’s front cover panel. If you see a small flame, the boiler is fine. If there is no flame, the pilot light is out.

If you smell gas or eggs, leave immediately, go to a neighbor, call your utility company to turn off the gas, and then contact us for repairs.

Reasons the Pilot Light Is Out

A correctly working pilot light has a blue flame, but it might be faulty if it’s yellow or orange. Here are safe DIY fixes and when to call for service.

• Dirty pilot orifice: If you have a yellow or weak flame, the orifice might be dirty and prevent a proper flame in the thermocouple. Try cleaning it or call us immediately for service.

• Faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple is the flame sensor. It can malfunction, close the gas access, and make the pilot light go out. Give us a call to inspect it.

• Strong draughts: Pilot lights that go out fast might be wind from the boiler flue, and your boiler might need reconfiguring to a different area. Our Comfort Club includes tune-ups, discounted repairs, and more!

• Faulty gas regulator: A natural gas meter can have a faulty regulator that cannot supply gas to your pilot light or other gas appliances.

Call us and consider a replacement heater. Federal tax rebates, flexible financing, utility credits, and online promotions can lower installation costs.  

Why Choose Parker’s Heating & Cooling

Since 1992, Parker’s has provided top-rated HVAC services in Murfreesboro, TN. Servicing all brands, our NATE-certified technicians provide 24/7 emergency service when you sign up for a Comfort Club maintenance plan.

For boiler service in Tennessee, contact Parker’s at 615-355-9137. 

FAQs

Is an unlit pilot light dangerous?

Yes, if the boiler’s pilot light is out, immediately turn off the gas as the gas is leaking and can get into your home and cause carbon monoxide poisoning or an explosion.

How much gas will my pilot light burn?

Pilot lights burn about 600 BTUs of gas an hour or 14,400 BTUs daily, which equates to 432,000 BTUs monthly. 

Can I clean my pilot light by myself?

If your pilot light’s orifice is dirty, clear any debris with a wire brush or use a paper clip, then blow the soot or dirt away with compressed air.