To restart your Rheem gas water heater, turn the gas control knob to “Off,” wait 5 minutes, then set it to “Pilot,” and relight the pilot flame.
Restarting your Rheem gas water heater requires careful attention to safety procedures. Follow these step-by-step instructions to relight the pilot light and restore hot water to your home.
Safety Precautions Before Restarting
Always prioritize safety when working with gas appliances. Follow these essential precautions:
- Turn off all flammable materials in the area
- Ensure proper ventilation
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby
- Never force controls – if something won’t turn, stop immediately
Detecting Gas Leaks
Before attempting to relight, check for gas leaks by:
- Applying soapy water to gas connections
- Looking for bubbles indicating leaks
- Smelling for the distinctive rotten egg odor added to natural gas
Step-by-Step Rheem Water Heater Restart
1. Turn Off Gas Supply
Locate the gas control valve on your Rheem unit. Turn the knob clockwise to the “Off” position. Wait at least 5 minutes for any residual gas to dissipate.
2. Access the Pilot Assembly
Remove the outer access panel to reveal the pilot light controls. Some models may have an inner door with a viewing window.
3. Prepare for Relighting
Turn the temperature dial to its lowest setting. This safety feature prevents accidental burns during the restart process.
4. Engage Pilot Mode
Turn the gas knob counter-clockwise to the “Pilot” position. Press and hold down the red button to begin gas flow to the pilot assembly.
5. Ignite the Pilot
While holding the red button, repeatedly press the piezo ignitor until the pilot lights. You should see a small blue flame through the viewing window.
6. Confirm Pilot Stay
Continue holding the red button for 60 seconds after ignition. This allows the thermocouple to heat up and maintain gas flow.
7. Restore Normal Operation
Turn the gas knob to “On” and replace all access panels. Adjust the temperature to your preferred setting (typically 120°F for optimal efficiency).
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Pilot Won’t Stay Lit
If the pilot extinguishes after releasing the button:
- Check thermocouple alignment
- Clean the pilot assembly with compressed air
- Consider replacing the thermocouple if problems persist
No Ignition Spark
For piezo ignitor failures:
- Check wire connections
- Clean ignition electrode
- Consider manual lighting with a long match if necessary
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed technician if you encounter:
- Persistent gas odors
- Water leaks from the tank
- Unusual noises during operation
- Error codes on digital displays
For complex HVAC issues beyond water heaters, explore our guide on essential tools for HVAC technicians that professionals use for diagnostics.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Issues
Regular maintenance reduces the need for emergency restarts:
| Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Test pressure relief valve | Annually |
| Drain and flush tank | Every 6 months |
| Inspect anode rod | Every 3 years |
For optimal home temperature control, consider pairing your water heater with smart home temperature regulation devices.
Understanding Rheem Water Heater Components
Familiarize yourself with these key parts:
Gas Control Valve
This regulates gas flow and includes the thermostat. Modern Rheem models feature precise electronic controls.
Thermocouple
A safety device that shuts off gas if the pilot light goes out. It generates a small electrical current from the pilot flame’s heat.
Burner Assembly
Located at the base of the tank, this component heats the water when the main burner ignites.
For more information on gas appliance safety, consult the official Rheem support site or the National Fire Protection Association guidelines.
