Water Heater Piezo Igniter Not Working

If the pilot does not light the water heater will not heat.

Water heater piezo igniter not working.

Turn the gas off to the water heater and press the piezo igniter. A water heater igniter has a sparking tip that is directed at the location of the pilot light. Make sure the wire is connected at the bottom of the push button that makes the igniter spark. Make sure the electrode is not broken and replace it if it is.

If any visible cracks or breaks are present replace the piezo igniter. While continuing to hold down the pilot button press down on the igniter button three or four times. Don t panic just because the piezo igniter has seized up and is no longer working there is still life to be had out of your hot water service providing the tank hasn t ruptured. Check if the wire connection is tightened correctly.

Sometimes carbon deposits can build up on the pilot and eventually create a restriction. And one damaged cord that the drum sander ate because it was just that kinda day. Once pressed the electrode should release the spark. Most water heaters do not have any wires attached to the gas valve.

If a spark is present every time the igniter is pressed the piezo igniter is fine if no spark is seen replace the piezo igniter. If the pilot cannot be cleaned replace it. This video provides step by step instructions for replacing the igniter and flame sensor on ao smith gas water heaters. Connect the piezo igniter to the electrode figure 3 holding the electrode about to away from the shell of the heater with the insulated pliers depress the piezo igniter.

You should be able to see it above or next to the gas supply line for the pilot light. This was two days of work and back and forth to home depot. If the pilot is restricted try removing it and clearing it with a stiff brush and or compressed air. The pilot ignites the water heater s gas burner.

Check the igniter for any visible cracks or breaks. When trying to light the heater be sure to put the gas valve on the water heater in the pilot position and hold down on the pilot button. The other tell tale sign is the wire that runs from the gas valve to the igniter. The piezo igniter is still intact and hooked up but just won t spark.

I can t get to the pilot because it s a sealed chamber.