hot water heater only stays lit for a few minutes

Troubleshooting a Hot Water Heater That Only Stays Lit for a Few Minutes

A hot water heater that only stays lit for a few minutes can be frustrating. Here’s a guide to help you troubleshoot the issue.

Check the Gas Supply

The first step in troubleshooting a hot water heater that only stays lit for a few minutes is to ensure that the gas supply is adequate. A low gas pressure can cause the pilot light to flicker or go out, preventing the heater from igniting properly. To check the gas supply, locate the gas valve on the heater and turn it off. Then, check the gas line for any leaks or blockages. If you find any leaks, call a qualified plumber immediately. If you find a blockage, you may need to contact a professional to clear it. If you are unsure about any of these steps, it is best to call a qualified technician.

Inspect the Pilot Light

The pilot light is essential for igniting the main burner in your hot water heater. If the pilot light is out or not burning properly, it can prevent the heater from staying lit. To inspect the pilot light, first turn off the gas supply to the heater. Then, carefully observe the pilot light. If it is out, you will need to relight it. To do this, locate the pilot light ignition button and press and hold it down while simultaneously lighting a match or lighter near the pilot light. If the pilot light stays lit after releasing the button, the problem may be solved. However, if the pilot light continues to go out, you may need to adjust the pilot light adjustment screw or replace the thermocouple. If you are unsure about any of these steps, it is best to call a qualified technician.

Examine the Thermocouple

The thermocouple is a safety device that senses the flame of the pilot light and sends a signal to the gas valve to keep the gas flowing. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may not be sending the correct signal, causing the gas valve to shut off and the heater to go out. To examine the thermocouple, first, turn off the gas supply to the heater. Then, carefully inspect the thermocouple for any signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or a buildup of soot. If you find any damage, you will need to replace the thermocouple. If the thermocouple appears to be in good condition, you can test it by holding a lit match or lighter near the end of the thermocouple. If the flame goes out, the thermocouple is faulty and needs to be replaced. Remember to always exercise caution when working with gas appliances and consult a qualified technician if you are unsure about any of these steps.

Look for a Draft

A draft can blow out the pilot light, causing the hot water heater to go out. To check for a draft, hold a piece of paper or a lighter near the pilot light. If the paper or flame moves, you have a draft. You can try to block the draft by placing a piece of cardboard or a towel over the opening where the draft is coming from. If the draft is coming from a vent, you can try to seal the vent with caulk or weatherstripping. If you cannot block the draft, you may need to have a professional install a draft shield around the pilot light. Remember, safety is paramount when working with gas appliances. If you are unsure about any of these steps, consult a qualified technician.

Call a Professional

If you’ve checked the gas supply, inspected the pilot light, examined the thermocouple, and looked for drafts, but your hot water heater still won’t stay lit, it’s time to call a professional. A qualified plumber or HVAC technician can diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs. They have the experience and tools to safely and effectively address issues with your hot water heater. Remember, attempting to repair a gas appliance yourself can be dangerous. It’s always best to leave it to the professionals to ensure the safety of you and your family.