A pilot light that keeps going out can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your water heater for daily comfort. If you've found yourself relighting the pilot light on your water heater only to have it go out again, there are a few potential causes. Here’s a guide to help you understand the common reasons behind a failing pilot light, how to fix it, and whether it’s dangerous when it goes out. 1. Dirty or Clogged Pilot Tube Over time, the pilot tube can collect dirt, dust, and other debris, which can obstruct the flow of gas to the pilot light. When the gas flow is blocked, the pilot light may not stay lit. Solution : A plumber can clean the pilot tube to ensure an uninterrupted flow of gas, allowing the pilot light to stay on consistently. 2. Faulty Thermocouple The thermocouple is a safety device that detects whether the pilot light is lit. If the thermocouple senses that the pilot light has gone out, it shuts off the gas to prevent leaks. However, if the thermocouple is faulty or misaligned, it may mistakenly shut off the gas even if the pilot light is on. Solution : A plumber can inspect the thermocouple and adjust or replace it if needed to ensure it’s functioning properly. 3. Drafts or Poor Ventilation Water heaters are often located in areas like basements or garages, which may be prone to drafts. If a draft blows directly onto the pilot light, it can cause it to go out repeatedly. Solution : Identify the source of the draft and reduce airflow around the water heater. In some cases, installing a draft shield can help protect the pilot light. 4. Defective Gas Control Valve The gas control valve regulates the flow of gas to the pilot light and burner. If this valve is defective, it may intermittently cut off gas to the pilot light, causing it to go out unexpectedly. Solution : If the gas control valve is the culprit, it will likely need to be replaced by a professional, as this repair requires specialized skills and tools. 5. Moisture or Water in the Burner Compartment If water or excessive moisture accumulates in the burner compartment, it can cause the pilot light to go out. Leaks or high humidity can introduce moisture into this area, disrupting the pilot light’s ability to stay lit. Solution : Inspect for any signs of water leaks and address them promptly. If you suspect moisture buildup, a plumber can help locate and fix any underlying issues. 6. Low Gas Pressure If the gas pressure to the water heater is too low, it might not be able to keep the pilot light burning. This could be due to a supply issue with your utility provider or a problem with the gas line itself. Solution : Contact your gas company to check for supply issues. If the gas pressure is consistently low, a licensed professional should assess the line for potential issues. Is It Dangerous if the Pilot Light Goes Out? One common concern homeowners have is whether a pilot light going out is dangerous. In most cases, it’s not a direct safety risk because modern water heaters have safety features like thermocouples, which shut off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. This prevents gas from leaking into your home, reducing the risk of a gas buildup. However, it can become dangerous if: The Thermocouple is Malfunctioning : If the thermocouple isn’t functioning properly, it may not shut off the gas supply when the pilot light goes out, which could allow gas to leak. Repeated Attempts to Light the Pilot Lead to a Gas Buildup : If you attempt to relight the pilot multiple times without success, gas may build up in the area. Always wait a few minutes between relighting attempts and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If your pilot light frequently goes out, it’s best to have it checked by a professional plumber to ensure it’s safe to use and functioning correctly. A reliable pilot light is essential for both hot water availability and peace of mind. When to Call a Professional Plumber If you’re dealing with a pilot light that won’t stay lit, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber to diagnose the issue. A professional can accurately identify the problem, make necessary adjustments, or replace parts to ensure your water heater works reliably and safely. If you’re in the Treasure Coast area and need help with your water, give us a call. Our plumbers are ready to troubleshoot and resolve your water heater problems so you can enjoy dependable hot water without interruptions.

When your water heater isn’t keeping up with your household’s hot water needs, it can be inconvenient and even disrupt your daily routine. Fortunately, there are some common reasons why your water heater might be struggling.

A water heater leaking from the bottom can be a stressful situation, especially if you're not sure where the water is coming from or how serious the issue might be. If you've noticed water pooling around the base of your water heater, it's important to take action quickly to prevent water damage and restore your hot water.

When your AC unit starts showing signs of wear and tear or starts having issues, you might find yourself at a crossroads: Should you repair it or replace it altogether? We can help!

Living in the Treasure Coast area of Florida, a properly functioning air conditioning system is paramount for home comfort. As temperatures soar and humidity levels rise, ensuring your home remains a cool and comfortable oasis becomes a top priority. However, the frustration sets in when homeowners discover that their air conditioning units are not effectively reaching the desired set temperature. In this article, we delve into the details of common issues that might be hindering your AC's performance, offering insights into troubleshooting and solutions to restore optimal cooling comfort to your living space. Illustrating the problem at hand: Imagine your indoor temperature stands at 82°F. Despite setting your home's thermostat to a comfortable 74°F, several hours later, the indoor temperature has only decreased to 78°F. Clearly, when your thermostat setting doesn't align with your home's temperature, there is an issue that needs attention. So what are some reasons why this could be happening? Air Filter Neglect A common culprit for inadequate cooling is a neglected air filter. In the Florida climate, where the AC often works overtime, filters can quickly become clogged with dust and debris. A dirty filter restricts airflow, making the cooling system less efficient. Regularly changing or cleaning the air filter is a simple yet effective solution to ensure optimal performance. Thermostat Issues Sometimes, the issue lies with the thermostat itself. Incorrect settings, faulty sensors, or outdated thermostats can mislead your AC into working inefficiently. An air conditioning contractor can assess and recalibrate your thermostat, ensuring it accurately reflects your desired temperature and communicates effectively with the cooling system. A Refrigerant Leak Low refrigerant levels can significantly impact your AC's ability to cool. The Florida heat can put additional stress on the system, causing refrigerant levels to drop. If you notice a decrease in cooling performance, it's crucial to have a professional air conditioning contractor inspect and replenish refrigerant levels to restore your system's efficiency. Some signs of a refrigerant leak that you may be able to identify yourself: Formation of ice on refrigerant lines Freezing of the evaporator coil Audible hissing or whistling noises emanating from refrigerant lines If you do notice any of these signs, it’s important to call in a professional to conduct a thorough inspection to pinpoint and address the source of the refrigerant leak. Once the source of the leak has been located and repaired, they’ll be able to recharge your system with the proper amount of refrigerant to restore optimal performance. Inadequate Insulation Florida's heat can be relentless, and if your home lacks proper insulation, it becomes challenging for your AC to maintain the desired temperature. An air conditioning contractor can evaluate your home's insulation and recommend improvements to help your cooling system work more effectively, keeping the warm air outside where it belongs. Ductwork Leaks Leaky ducts can undermine your AC's performance by allowing cooled air to escape before reaching its destination. In Florida's humid climate, this issue is particularly common. A professional contractor can inspect and seal any leaks in your ductwork, ensuring that the cooled air reaches every room in your home. Insufficient AC Size When your AC unit is undersized for your home, it is likely to consistently face challenges in achieving your desired temperature. Air conditioning systems are classified by tonnage (1 ton, 2 tons, 3 tons, etc.). The higher the tonnage, the greater the cooling capacity within a specific timeframe. A skilled HVAC technician will conduct a Manual J calculation to accurately determine the appropriate AC size for your home. However, if the technician took shortcuts, for instance, by only considering square footage when determining the size of your AC, there's a possibility that your AC has been improperly sized. Contact Ebens Air Conditioning for a Proper AC Diagnosis and Solution If your home's AC isn't cooling to the set temperature and is struggling in the Florida heat, it's time to address the underlying issues. Regular maintenance, prompt attention to problems, and the expertise of a qualified air conditioning contractor can make a significant difference. Don't let the heat leave you in discomfort—contact us today to provide an accurate diagnosis and expert AC repair to make sure your home's air conditioning system is running efficiently and keeping your home cool and inviting.