Quck answer
To light the pilot light in an A.O. Smith water heater, follow these steps:
1. Locate the gas control knob on the front of the water heater.
2. Turn the knob to the “Off” position and wait for at least five minutes to allow any lingering gas to dissipate.
3. Find the pilot light assembly, which is typically located near the bottom of the water heater.
4. Turn the gas control knob to the “Pilot” position and press it down.
5. While holding down the knob, use a long lighter or match to ignite the pilot light.
6. Continue to hold down the knob for about one minute to allow the thermocouple to heat up.
7. Release the knob and check if the pilot light stays lit. If it does, turn the gas control knob to the “On” position.
Remember to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific A.O. Smith water heater model.
In some cases, the pilot light in your A.O. Smith water heater may go out due to an interruption in service or repairs needed on the appliance. A.O. Smith water heaters, including the Conservationist model, use a modern built-in piezoelectric igniter system that allows you to light the pilot by pressing the ignition button.
Step 1
Remove the access panel at the bottom of the A.O. Smith water heater by hand. Move the panel aside.
Step 2
Turn the gas control knob on the water heater’s side to the “Off” position. Wait for approximately 10 minutes to allow the room to air out.
Step 3
Change the gas control knob to the “Pilot” position. Press the red pilot set button to enable gas to run to the burner assembly.
Step 4
Hold down the red set button, and press the ignitor button until you see the pilot light turn on. You may have to press the ignitor button several times before the pilot lights up.
Step 5
Keep the red set button down for about a minute after the pilot light ignites. Slowly release the button, and turn the gas control knob to the “On” position.
Step 6
Put the access panel back onto the water heater’s side.
FAQ
1. How do I determine if my A.O. Smith water heater has a pilot light?
To determine if your A.O. Smith water heater has a pilot light, you can check the front of the heater for a small access panel. Open the panel, and if you see a small flame burning inside, then your water heater has a pilot light.
2. Why is it important to know how to light the pilot light in an A.O. Smith water heater?
Knowing how to light the pilot light in an A.O. Smith water heater is important because if the pilot light goes out, the water heater will not be able to heat the water. By knowing how to relight the pilot light, you can ensure that your water heater continues to function properly.
3. What tools do I need to light the pilot light?
To light the pilot light in an A.O. Smith water heater, you will need a long fireplace match or a butane lighter. Additionally, you may need a flashlight to help you see inside the access panel if it is not well-lit.
4. Can I light the pilot light myself, or do I need to call a professional?
If you are comfortable working with gas appliances and have followed the manufacturer’s instructions, you can attempt to light the pilot light yourself. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable, it is always best to call a professional plumber or technician to handle the task.
5. How do I safely light the pilot light in an A.O. Smith water heater?
To safely light the pilot light, start by turning the gas control knob to the “Off” position. Wait for at least five minutes to allow any gas to dissipate. Then, locate the pilot light assembly and use a flashlight to find the pilot opening. Use a long match or lighter to ignite the pilot light by holding the flame near the opening. Once the pilot light is lit, turn the gas control knob back to the “On” position.
6. What should I do if the pilot light does not stay lit?
If the pilot light does not stay lit after you have followed the lighting instructions, it may indicate a more significant issue with your water heater. In this case, it is best to call a professional to inspect and repair the water heater to ensure your safety and the proper functioning of the appliance.
7. Are there any safety precautions I should take when lighting the pilot light?
Yes, there are several safety precautions you should take when lighting the pilot light. Make sure the area around the water heater is well-ventilated. Keep flammable materials away from the water heater. If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, do not attempt to light the pilot light and evacuate the area immediately. Contact your gas provider for assistance.