Resetting the pilot light on a gas boiler can be a straightforward task, but it’s essential to understand the process thoroughly to ensure the safe and proper operation of your heating system. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step instructions, common reasons for pilot light issues, troubleshooting techniques, and important safety precautions to consider when resetting your gas boiler pilot light.
Locating the Reset Button
The first step in resetting your gas boiler pilot light is to locate the reset button. This button is typically marked with a flame or cross symbol and is usually located on the boiler itself. Refer to your boiler’s manufacturer manual to identify the exact location of the reset button, as the placement may vary depending on the model and make of your appliance.
Pressing the Reset Button
Once you’ve located the reset button, press and hold it for approximately 10 seconds. This action will initiate the boiler’s ignition sequence, allowing the pilot light to reignite. After releasing the button, wait for 2-3 minutes to give the boiler enough time to start up and stabilize the flame.
Verifying the Reset
If the reset is successful, you should see the pilot light ignite, and the error code or display on your boiler should disappear. However, if the boiler does not restart, you can repeat the reset process up to two more times, but avoid repeatedly pressing the button, as this can potentially damage the control panel.
Calling a Professional
If the boiler still fails to restart after three reset attempts, there is likely a more significant issue with the appliance that requires the expertise of a qualified gas engineer. At this point, it’s best to contact a Gas Safe registered professional to diagnose and repair the underlying problem.
Common Reasons for Pilot Light Issues
There are several common reasons why a gas boiler’s pilot light may go out or fail to ignite, including:
- Power Cuts: A power outage can cause the boiler to shut down, and the pilot light may need to be reset once the power is restored.
- Faulty Thermocouple: A broken or malfunctioning thermocouple, a safety device that shuts off the gas supply when the flame is extinguished, can prevent the pilot light from operating correctly.
- Draughts and Strong Winds: If the boiler is installed in a garage, utility room, or other area exposed to strong winds or draughts, the pilot light may be blown out.
- Accumulated Dirt: Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate around the pilot light orifice, causing the flame to struggle or go out.
Troubleshooting and Relighting
Depending on whether your boiler has a manual or automatic pilot light, the relighting process may vary slightly:
Manual Pilot Light
- Turn the gas control knob to the ‘off’ position.
- Ensure the thermostat is set to the lowest setting.
- Wait 10-15 minutes to allow any accumulated gas fumes to dissipate.
- Remove the boiler’s access panel.
- Turn the gas control knob to the ‘pilot’ position and press it down.
- Use a lighter or lit match to ignite the pilot light until the flame is steady.
Automatic Pilot Light
- Turn the boiler off using the electrical switch.
- Remove the access panel and ensure the gas control knob is in the ‘off’ position.
- Wait 10-15 minutes for any gas fumes to dissipate.
- Turn the gas control knob back on and switch the electrical power back on.
- You should hear a ‘click’ as the automatic starter ignites the pilot light.
Safety Precautions
When resetting or relighting the pilot light, it’s crucial to observe the following safety precautions:
- Always ensure the thermostat is set to the ‘off’ position before attempting to relight the pilot.
- Use a lighter or lit match to relight the pilot light, and hold the gas control knob down until the flame is steady.
- If the pilot light goes out again after relighting, turn the gas off and contact a Gas Safe registered heating engineer immediately.
Technical Specifications
- Reset Button: Located on the boiler, usually marked with a flame or cross symbol.
- Thermocouple: A safety device that shuts off the gas supply when the pilot light flame is extinguished.
- Gas Control Knob: Used to control the flow of gas to the boiler.
- Electrical Switch: Used to turn the boiler on and off.
References
- Skills Training Group. (n.d.). How To Reset Your Boiler In 3 Simple Steps. Retrieved from https://www.skillstg.co.uk/blog/how-to-reset-your-boiler/
- Boiler Central. (n.d.). Boiler Pilot Light Gone Out or No Flame, Causes And How To Fix. Retrieved from https://www.boilercentral.com/troubleshooting/boiler-pilot-light-gone-out/
- YouTube. (2023). How to relight a pilot – pilot light out, how to light a standing pilot. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UT4PGJNjpS0
- YouTube. (2022). Restarting Your Pilot Light to your Gas Hot Water Heater. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=al7Pw110vk8
- SES Home Services. (n.d.). What To Do If Your Boiler Pilot Light Has Gone Out. Retrieved from https://www.seshomeservices.co.uk/blog/boiler-pilot-light-out