Quick Answer
To relight a water heater pilot in Wintersville, switch the gas knob OFF for 10 minutes, then to PILOT while holding it down. Press the igniter until a solid blue flame appears, hold for about 45 seconds, then turn to ON. If the flame keeps dying, sediment buildup or cold basement drafts may be the cause — never relight if you smell gas.
Why Pilot Lights Go Out in Wintersville Homes
Wintersville’s raised plateaus and mix of 1960s ranch homes and newer cul-de-sacs mean many gas heaters sit in partially finished basements where airflow is limited. Drafts from ridge-top winds and long vent runs can snuff out the flame. Homes near Fernwood Road and Canton Road often face extra moisture from shaded yards, leading to rust and carbon buildup on thermocouples. Regular inspection prevents weak ignition and protects against incomplete combustion.
Safe Relight Steps for Local Homeowners
Follow this sequence:
- Turn the control knob OFF and wait at least 10 minutes.
- Set to PILOT, press and hold while clicking the igniter once per second.
- Watch for a steady blue flame. Keep holding 30–60 seconds.
- Turn the knob ON and reset the thermostat.
If the flame sputters or won’t hold, sediment or a dirty pilot tube is likely. Always stop and call Columbia Gas or Honest Fix if you sense gas odor — safety comes first in enclosed Ohio basements.
Common Pilot Light Problems Honest Fix Sees
Technicians in Cross Creek and Ward Heights often find pilot assemblies clogged with rust or scale from Wintersville’s mineral-rich city water. Poor ventilation behind tight utility doors can also starve the flame of oxygen. A yellow or split flame signals debris or restricted airflow. Honest Fix cleans the pilot orifice,
Alex Largent
Alex Largent is the Owner and Senior HVAC Efficiency Analyst at Honest Fix Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. With more than 20 years of field experience, NATE and EPA certifications, and a hands-on leadership style, Alex teaches his team to fix systems right the first time — with transparency, precision, and no upsells. He writes about HVAC diagnostics, home energy efficiency, and practical maintenance advice for homeowners across the Upper Ohio Valley. Read Alex Largent’s full bio to learn more about his expertise in the HVAC and Plumbing industry. Updated October 2025.
