Keep Warm This Winter With Top Tips For Any Pilot Light
The pilot light of a water heater is located at the bottom of the unit. Its main role is to ignite the burner that heats the water. A well-functioning water heater is an indication that there are no plumbing concerns.
Occasionally, the pilot light can have some hiccups. The light can flicker when there’s a change in the voltage of your home or general electricity fluctuations. Your water heater’s pilot light could malfunctions for no particular reason too.
There is no fixed formula for fixing a pilot light. Diagnosing the problem is essential.
Here are some tips for pilot lights of various water heaters available:
Tankless coils
Other water heaters like tankless coils and indirect water heaters work in the same principle as traditional water heaters. Their pilot light problems arise from the heat exchanger. It’s difficult to diagnose the problems in such heaters. It’s always best to call in a professional to inspect the heat exchanger.
Demand water heater
Demand water heaters only switch on whenever you need it, unlike traditional systems. Issues with the pilot light come up in parallel sequence installation. There could be a blockage preventing it from powering up.
Traditional storage water heaters
Storage water heaters can be powered by electricity, gas, propane or oil. These units are still quite common despite more convenient models like on-demand and tankless water heaters. They are also more expensive to maintain. The pilot light of such water heating systems is always on.
Special attention must be given to the gas regulator valve. It can signal any blockages in the system. Flicker the gas regulator and then monitor the pilot for a couple of minutes to an hour. If the problem still isn’t resolved, you need to call in a specialist.
Solar water heater
Solar water heaters are an excellent use of renewable energy. The most common problem that occurs with this system is with the solar power collector.
If this part of the water heater is working smoothly and you still find your water heater isn’t working as well, check the size of the heater. Often, the size of the water heater isn’t appropriate for the needs of a home. Other problems can arise with the thermosiphon or the connection between the heater and solar storage.
Heat pump water heater
A heat pump works like a fridge but in reverse. The same principles are applied to heat water. These systems use electricity to move heat around instead of generating it. They are said to be more efficient than conventional systems. Issues with the pilot light of this kind of water heater arise when the water heater isn’t installed in the appropriate temperature range. This system doesn’t work efficiently if installed in cold spaces.
Are you looking for a reliable service for water heater repairs and installations? Your 1 Plumber offers same day service to clients in Golf, FL. Call 561-403-1500 to schedule your appointment.
