Quick Answer
To relight a Colliers water heater pilot, turn the gas knob OFF for 10 minutes, then switch to PILOT. Hold it down and click the igniter until you see a steady blue flame. Keep holding 30–60 seconds, then turn to ON. If it goes out again, moisture, corrosion, or flue backdrafts could be the cause — never relight if you detect gas odor.
Why Pilot Lights Go Out in Colliers Homes
Colliers’ steep hillside streets and low-lying hollows create challenging airflow for gas venting. Homes along Church Hill Road, Eldersville Road, and near the Colliers Way ridge often experience pilot outages during windy conditions. Many properties built before 1980 use unlined chimney flues, which can draw cold air back toward the pilot. Add in the high humidity from nearby creeks, and even a small draft can extinguish a flame or cause a weak, yellow burn.
Safe Pilot Relight Steps for Colliers Residents
- Turn the control knob OFF and wait at least 10 minutes.
- Turn to PILOT, press and hold the knob while clicking the igniter.
- Once the flame appears, continue holding for 30–60 seconds.
- Turn the knob ON and set your preferred temperature.
If the flame flickers or dies, sediment or rust on the pilot orifice may be to blame. Wait 10 more minutes before retrying. Persistent failure means it’s time for service. If gas odor is present, leave immediately and call Mountaineer Gas or Honest Fix for emergency assistance.
Common Water Heater Problems in Colliers, WV
Honest Fix technicians often see corrosion and mineral buildup from local water supplies affecting pilot stability. Homes near Harmon Creek and Cross Creek Road frequently experience downdrafts during temperature swings, especially when cold air rushes through unsealed vent pipes. Cleaning the pilot assembly, adjusting the air shutter, and checking for adequate draft pull are simple fixes that restore safe, consistent operation.
FAQs
Why does my pilot go out on cold mornings?
Rapid temperature drops create strong downdrafts in hillside vents. Insulating the flue or adding a draft hood can solve the problem.
Can I relight my pilot without an igniter button?
Yes, most older heaters allow manual lighting with a long lighter — just follow your manufacturer’s directions carefully.
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.
