Symptoms
- No flame visible at the pilot assembly
- No heat or hot water depending on boiler type
- Boiler unresponsive to the thermostat
Likely causes
- CommonDraft or vibration extinguished the pilotA gust of air or a nearby door slam can blow out a small pilot flame.
- CommonWeak thermocouple or flame sensorA worn sensor can let the pilot go out or fail to stay lit when relit.
- PossibleGas supply interruptionA brief utility issue or closed valve stops gas to the pilot.
- Less commonFailing gas valveAn internal valve fault can prevent gas from reaching the pilot reliably.
What to do
- Find the lighting instructions on the label near the boiler's gas control valve.
- Turn the control knob to Off and wait about 5 minutes for gas to clear.
- Turn the knob to Pilot, press and hold it, and light the pilot with a long lighter at the opening shown.
- Hold the knob in for the specified time until the pilot stays lit on its own.
- Release slowly, turn the knob to On, and confirm the boiler responds to a thermostat call for heat.
- If the pilot won't stay lit after two tries, stop and call a technician rather than continuing to relight it.
Tools and parts
- Long lighter or fireplace match
When to call a pro
Call a technician if the pilot won't stay lit after two attempts, or anytime you smell gas near the boiler.
Safety
Use caution
Always follow the wait time before relighting and stop immediately if you smell gas.