You can relight a water heater pilot light yourself if the model has a manually relightable pilot, there is no gas smell or visible damage, access is safe and you have the manufacturer’s instructions for that exact model. If any of these conditions is not met, stop and contact a licensed gas fitter.
When not to relight it
Do not attempt ignition if:
- you smell gas
- the heater or controls appear damaged
- the lighting label is missing or unreadable and you cannot obtain the correct manual
- access requires climbing, entering a confined space or moving the heater
- the model uses electronic ignition rather than a manually relightable pilot
- the pilot repeatedly goes out.
If you smell gas near the water heater, do not use flames, electrical switches, appliances or ignition controls. Move away and call the gas network distributor shown on your gas bill from a safe location. Call 000 if there is an immediate threat to people or property.
How to relight it safely
Use only the lighting label attached to the heater or the official manual for its exact model. Control positions, waiting periods and ignition methods vary.
- Check the area: Confirm there is no gas smell, visible damage or unsafe access.
- Identify the model: Find its model number and read the complete lighting procedure. Do not rely on instructions for a similar-looking heater.
- Follow the shutdown step: If instructed, turn the gas control to the stated position and wait for the period specified by the manufacturer.
- Follow the ignition sequence: Use the specified pilot setting, ignition method and control-holding time. Many heaters have a built-in igniter and viewing window. Never use a match or lighter unless the manufacturer expressly instructs you to use one through a purpose-designed access point.
- Check the pilot: Confirm through the viewing window that it remains lit, then set the control only as directed.
Stop if the instructions are unclear, the igniter does not work or the pilot will not remain lit. Do not remove sealed covers, adjust gas controls beyond the lighting procedure, or diagnose or repair gas components.
When to call a licensed gas fitter
Contact a licensed gas fitter if the pilot will not light or stay lit, goes out again, any component appears damaged, or the correct instructions are unavailable. In NSW, repairs or adjustments to gas controls and ignition components must not be attempted by an unlicensed householder.
Our Sydney plumbing team can arrange assessment by a licensed gas fitter when relighting is unsuccessful or unsafe.