Water Heater Pilot Light Won't Stay Lit
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A gas water heater pilot that won't stay lit usually has a worn thermocouple or thermopile, a dirty pilot tube, a draft blowing it out, a clogged air intake screen, or a failing gas control valve. Angi estimates a thermocouple replacement at about $150 and a gas valve at about $350 nationally. Never relight it if you smell gas.
Last reviewed October 19, 2026.
Why does the pilot go out?
- Thermocouple or thermopile: senses the pilot flame and keeps the gas valve open. When it wears out, the pilot goes out as soon as you release the button.
- Dirty pilot: dust and lint can make a weak, yellow flame.
- Drafts: wind through an outdoor cabinet or garage can blow out the pilot.
- Air intake screen: many newer units have a flame arrestor screen near the bottom that clogs with lint and dust, starving the burner of air.
- Gas control valve: a failed valve won’t hold the pilot.
Where are outdoor water heaters common?
Many Ventura-area homes have water heaters in garages or outdoor closets, where wind and salt air near the coast can affect pilots, vents, and metal parts. Keep outdoor cabinet doors closed and vents clear.
What do pilot repairs cost?
Angi national estimates: thermocouple about $150, gas control valve about $350.
When should you call an emergency water heater pro in Ventura?
Call for urgent help, and leave the house first where noted, if any of these apply:
- You smell gas (a rotten-egg odor) near the water heater: leave right away without flipping switches, then call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
- A carbon monoxide alarm sounds, or you see soot, scorch marks, or flames outside the burner area: get everyone outside and call 911.
- The tank is actively leaking or water is spreading toward walls, flooring, or electrical outlets. Shut off the cold-water valve above the tank.
- The temperature and pressure relief valve is discharging hot water repeatedly, or the tank is making loud banging sounds.
- Water from the hot tap is scalding hot, or steam comes out of faucets.
- There is no hot water and someone at home needs it for medical or caregiving reasons.
If you smell gas or a carbon monoxide alarm goes off, leave the building first and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside. Don't wait for a plumber.
Where is pilot won't stay lit help available near Ventura?
Requests are taken from Ventura and these nearby communities:
What do people ask about water heater repair in Ventura?
Can I replace a thermocouple myself?
Some homeowners do, but gas connections must be done right. If you're unsure, have a plumber do it.
Why does my pilot go out only on windy days?
Drafts in garages and outdoor closets are a common cause. A plumber can check the vent and cabinet.
Is a yellow pilot flame a problem?
A healthy pilot is mostly blue. A lazy yellow flame suggests a dirty pilot or poor combustion air and should be checked.
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