To light the pilot on a Rheem water heater, locate the pilot light access cover, turn the gas control knob to “Pilot,” press down, and use a long lighter to ignite the pilot flame while holding the knob down for about 30 seconds until it stays lit.
When your Rheem water heater pilot light goes out, cold showers become an unwelcome reality. This guide provides detailed instructions for relighting your pilot, troubleshooting tips, and expert advice to prevent future outages.
Step-by-Step Rheem Pilot Lighting Instructions
1. Prepare Your Water Heater
Turn the gas knob clockwise to the “Off” position. Wait 5 minutes for any residual gas to dissipate. This critical safety step prevents potential gas buildup.
2. Access the Pilot Assembly
Remove the outer access panel on your Rheem unit. Some models have a viewing window to observe the pilot flame. Keep a flashlight handy for better visibility.
3. Initiate Pilot Mode
Turn the gas knob counter-clockwise to “Pilot.” Press and hold the red button adjacent to the knob. This allows gas to flow to the pilot assembly.
4. Ignite the Pilot
While holding the red button, press the piezo ignitor repeatedly until the pilot lights. You should see a steady blue flame through the viewing window. Continue holding the button for 30 seconds after ignition.
5. Activate Main Burner
Turn the gas knob to “On” and replace the access panel. Set your desired temperature using the dial. The main burner should now operate normally.
Common Rheem Pilot Light Issues
Pilot Won’t Stay Lit
If the flame extinguishes when releasing the red button, the thermocouple may be faulty. This safety device shuts off gas if it doesn’t detect a flame. Professional replacement is often required.
Intermittent Pilot Outages
As reported on heating forums, some Rheem models experience random pilot failures. Possible causes include:
- Drafty installation locations
- Gas pressure fluctuations
- Faulty gas control valve
No Ignition Spark
If the piezo ignitor doesn’t create sparks, check for:
- Loose wire connections
- Moisture in the ignition system
- Worn out ignitor (requires replacement)
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Annual Inspections
Schedule professional maintenance to clean burner components and check gas connections. Rheem recommends annual servicing for optimal performance.
Ventilation Requirements
Ensure your water heater has proper clearance (minimum 18 inches) from walls and combustible materials. Poor ventilation can cause pilot outages.
Gas Supply Checks
Verify your gas shut-off valve is fully open. According to Rheem’s official documentation, insufficient gas pressure is a common cause of ignition problems.
When to Call a Professional
Gas Odors
If you smell gas at any point, immediately turn off the gas supply and contact your utility company. Do not attempt to relight the pilot.
Persistent Problems
For recurring pilot outages or if you’re uncomfortable with the process, consult a licensed technician. Many modern Rheem models use complex ignition systems that require specialized knowledge.
Error Codes
If your unit displays status codes like E1 or flashing lights, refer to our error code guide for specific troubleshooting steps.
Comparing Rheem to Other Brands
| Brand | Pilot Type | Relight Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Rheem | Piezo ignition | Moderate |
| A.O. Smith | Push-button | Easy |
| Bradford White | Manual valve | Difficult |
For those considering alternatives, our Bradford White vs Rheem comparison provides detailed insights on performance and reliability.
Advanced Troubleshooting
Checking Gas Pressure
Incorrect gas pressure (should be 3.5″ WC for natural gas) can cause pilot issues. This requires a manometer and should only be performed by qualified technicians.
Thermocouple Testing
Use a multimeter to check for 25-35 millivolts when the pilot is lit. Values outside this range indicate a faulty thermocouple.
Vent Blockage Inspection
Obstructed flues can cause improper combustion. Check for bird nests, debris, or ice accumulation in cold climates.
