Light the Pilot Light and Set Temperature
At 7:40 in
Helping My Neighbor Install a 50-Gal Rheem Gas Water Heater
What happens here
To light the pilot light, first ensure the gas supply is turned on. On the water heater's gas control valve, turn the dial to the 'Pilot' setting, then push and hold the pilot button. While holding, repeatedly press the piezo-electric igniter (trigger button) until you see the pilot flame ignite through the small viewing window. Continue holding the pilot button for about 30-60 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up and hold the pilot. Once the status light on the control valve starts flashing, release the pilot button. Finally, turn the dial to the desired temperature setting (e.g., 'B') to engage the main burner.
Goal: Ignite the water heater's pilot light and activate the main burner.
Tools and materials
- Water Heater Gas Control Valve — Controlling gas flow and igniting the pilot light