Quick Answer
To relight your Brilliant water heater pilot, turn the gas knob OFF for 10 minutes, then switch to PILOT. Hold it down and click the igniter until a steady blue flame appears. Keep holding for 30–60 seconds, then turn to ON. If it won’t stay lit, drafts from the Ohio River, corrosion, or sediment buildup could be the problem — never relight if you smell gas.
Why Pilot Lights Go Out in Brilliant Homes
Brilliant’s position along the river and its older housing stock — especially near Franklin Street and Market Street — make pilot lights prone to humidity-related issues. Many basements in town sit partially below grade, where moisture and cooler air collect around gas appliances. Rusted burners or weakened thermocouples are common in older tanks. Homes closer to the riverfront often experience downdrafts during windy weather, which can snuff the pilot or cause a weak yellow flame.
Step-by-Step Pilot Relight Guide
- Turn the gas control knob OFF and wait 10 minutes.
- Turn to PILOT, press and hold.
- Click the igniter once per second until the flame appears.
- Keep holding 30–60 seconds to heat the thermocouple.
- Turn to ON and reset the thermostat.
If the flame flickers or won’t hold, stop and wait before retrying. Repeated failures indicate a dirty pilot or worn-out component. For any sign of gas smell, leave the area immediately and call Columbia Gas or Honest Fix.
Common Water Heater Problems in Brilliant, OH
Honest Fix technicians frequently find corrosion inside pilot assemblies caused by the town’s hard water and constant humidity from nearby river air. Sediment buildup can muffle the burner flame, leading to delayed ignition or frequent pilot outages. Homes on Rural Avenue and near Brilliant Heights are especially prone to flue downdrafts during stormy weather. Cleaning the air intake and testing draft pull help ensure steady, efficient operation year-round.
FAQs
Why does my pilot light go out after long showers?
High humidity and steam can cool the air around the burner, reducing flame stability. Better ventilation in the utility room usually fixes it.
How often should I service my water heater in Brilliant?
At least once per year. A quick inspection and flush prevent sediment buildup and pilot issues.
Exact HVAC replacement quotes available at (740) 825-9408 or HonestFix.com/schedule-service.
Author: Alex Largent
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.
