To light a Rheem professional gas hot water heater, turn the gas valve to “Pilot,” press the reset button, and use a long lighter to ignite the pilot flame.
If your Rheem gas water heater isn’t producing hot water, a extinguished pilot light is often the culprit. Relighting it requires careful attention to safety protocols and manufacturer instructions. This guide provides step-by-step directions for Rheem Professional series models along with troubleshooting tips.
Safety Precautions Before Lighting
Gas appliances demand caution. Follow these safety measures:
- Smell for gas leaks before attempting to relight
- Keep flammable materials away from the unit
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby
- Never force controls – if knobs won’t turn, call a professional
Step-by-Step Lighting Instructions
1. Locate the Gas Control Valve
Find the control panel on your Rheem water heater. It’s typically behind an access door near the bottom of the unit. Remove the outer and inner door panels to expose the gas valve and pilot assembly.
2. Set the Gas Knob to Pilot
Turn the gas control knob clockwise to the “Off” position. Wait 5 minutes for any residual gas to dissipate. Then turn the knob counterclockwise to the “Pilot” setting.
3. Prepare to Light
Press and hold down the red reset button. This allows gas to flow to the pilot assembly. While continuing to hold the button, locate the igniter button (usually black or silver).
4. Ignite the Pilot
Press the igniter button repeatedly while watching through the viewing window. You should see a spark and the pilot flame ignite. Continue holding the reset button for 60 seconds after ignition to allow the thermocouple to heat up.
5. Complete the Process
Release the reset button. The pilot should stay lit. Turn the gas control knob to the “On” position. Replace all access panels. Set your desired temperature using the dial.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Pilot Won’t Stay Lit
If the pilot extinguishes when you release the reset button:
- The thermocouple may be faulty
- There could be a draft affecting the flame
- Gas pressure might be too low
No Spark When Pressing Igniter
This could indicate:
- A depleted igniter battery (if applicable)
- Faulty igniter switch
- Loose wiring connections
When to Call a Professional
Contact a licensed technician if you encounter:
- Persistent gas smells
- Water leaks near the gas controls
- Carbon monoxide detector alarms
- Repeated pilot light failures
For related HVAC maintenance tips, see our guide on the best HVAC coil cleaners to keep your systems running efficiently.
Rheem Professional Series Features
Rheem Professional gas water heaters include:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Electronic ignition | Eliminates standing pilot light for efficiency |
| Self-cleaning burners | Reduces maintenance requirements |
| Low NOx emissions | Environmentally friendly operation |
For more information on efficient home heating solutions, check out our review of the best residential rooftop HVAC units.
Maintenance Tips
Extend your water heater’s lifespan with these practices:
- Flush the tank annually to remove sediment
- Inspect the anode rod every 3 years
- Test the temperature and pressure relief valve yearly
- Keep the area around the unit clean and unobstructed
For more detailed maintenance guidance, consult Rheem’s official product documentation or visit their support site.
