Water Heater Igniter Not Working? Quick Fix Guide!

Diagnosing & Fixing a Water Heater Igniter Problem

This guide helps you troubleshoot and potentially fix a water heater igniter that isn’t working. Focusing on issues related to the "igniter button water heater" specifically, we’ll walk through common problems and simple solutions. Remember to always exercise caution when working with gas appliances. If you’re unsure about any step, contact a qualified technician.

Safety First!

Before attempting any repairs, follow these critical safety precautions:

• Turn off the gas supply to the water heater: Locate the gas valve on the supply line and turn it to the "OFF" position.
• Turn off the water supply to the water heater: There should be a cold water inlet valve near the top of the tank. Close this valve to prevent water from flooding the area.
• Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to ensure proper ventilation.
• Avoid open flames: Do not smoke or use any open flames while working on the water heater.

Understanding the Igniter Button Water Heater System

How it Works: A Simple Explanation

The igniter button, often called a piezo igniter, is a simple mechanism used to create a spark that lights the pilot light on a gas water heater. When you press the button, it strikes a crystal, generating a small electrical charge. This charge is then sent to the pilot light assembly, creating a spark that ignites the gas.

Common Problems with the Igniter Button

• No Spark: This is the most common problem. You press the igniter button, but there is no visible spark.
• Weak Spark: A weak spark may not be strong enough to ignite the gas, even if it’s present.
• Difficult to Press: The igniter button may be hard to push or may feel stuck.
• Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit: Even if the pilot light ignites initially, it may go out as soon as you release the igniter button.

Troubleshooting a Non-Working Igniter Button

This section guides you through steps to diagnose and solve the problem.

Step 1: Check the Gas Supply

• Confirm the Gas Valve is Open: Ensure the gas valve on the supply line is fully open and aligned with the gas pipe. It should be in the "ON" position.
• Check for Gas Leaks: If you smell gas, immediately evacuate the area and call your gas company. Use a soap and water solution around the gas connections to look for bubbles indicating a leak. If you find a leak, do not attempt to fix it yourself.

Step 2: Inspect the Igniter Button and Wiring

• Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the igniter button itself. Is it cracked, broken, or damaged? Look for any signs of corrosion.
• Check the Wiring: The igniter button is connected to the pilot light assembly by a wire. Inspect this wire for damage, such as cuts, frays, or loose connections. Use a multimeter to test for continuity to ensure the wire isn’t broken.
• Cleaning Connections: Clean any corroded connections with a wire brush or electrical contact cleaner.

Step 3: Clean the Pilot Light Assembly

A dirty pilot light assembly can prevent the spark from properly igniting the gas.

1. Remove the Pilot Light Access Cover: Typically located near the bottom of the water heater.
2. Locate the Pilot Light Orifice: This is a small opening where the gas flows to the pilot light.
3. Clean the Orifice: Use a thin wire or a pilot light cleaning tool to gently clear any debris from the orifice. Be careful not to enlarge the opening.
4. Reassemble: Reattach the pilot light access cover.

Step 4: Purge Air from the Gas Line

If the gas line has been shut off for a while, air may have entered the system, making it difficult to light the pilot. To purge the air:

1. Turn the Gas Valve to the "PILOT" setting: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific water heater model.
2. Press and Hold the Igniter Button: This allows gas to flow to the pilot light.
3. Press and Hold the Pilot Light Button: Simultaneously press and hold the pilot light button (if your water heater has one) to allow gas to flow.
4. Continue Holding: Hold both buttons down for approximately one minute to allow any air to purge from the line. You may need to repeat this process several times.

Step 5: Test the Thermocouple (If Applicable)

Some water heaters use a thermocouple, a safety device that senses the heat from the pilot light. If the pilot light isn’t heating the thermocouple properly, the gas valve will shut off the gas supply.

• Visual Inspection: Check the thermocouple for any signs of damage or corrosion.
• Testing: Use a multimeter to test the thermocouple. Refer to your water heater’s manual or online resources for instructions on how to test a thermocouple.

Step 6: Replacing the Igniter Button

If you’ve tried all the above steps and the igniter button still isn’t working, it may need to be replaced.

1. Purchase a Replacement: Buy a new igniter button that is compatible with your water heater model.
2. Disconnect the Old Igniter: Disconnect the wiring from the old igniter button.
3. Install the New Igniter: Connect the wiring to the new igniter button and install it in the water heater.

Potential Solutions and Troubleshooting Table

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No Spark	Broken igniter button	Replace the igniter button.
No Spark	Broken wiring	Inspect and repair or replace the wiring.
No Spark	Dirty pilot light assembly	Clean the pilot light orifice.
Weak Spark	Low gas pressure	Contact your gas company to check the gas pressure.
Difficult to Press	Sticking mechanism	Lubricate the igniter button with a small amount of silicone grease.
Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit	Faulty thermocouple	Test and replace the thermocouple if necessary.
Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit	Air in gas line	Purge the air from the gas line.
Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit	Clogged pilot light orifice	Clean the pilot light orifice.

Alright, you’ve got the knowledge – now go give your igniter button water heater a shot! Hope this helped get your hot water flowing again. Good luck!