Quick Answer
If your water heater pilot goes out in Follansbee, turn the gas knob OFF for 10 minutes, then to PILOT. Hold it down and click the igniter until a solid blue flame appears. Continue holding for about 45 seconds before turning to ON. If the flame flickers or won’t hold, corrosion, drafts, or a weak thermocouple could be the issue — never relight if gas odor is present.
Why Pilot Lights Struggle in Follansbee Homes
Follansbee’s location along the Ohio River and its steep hillside streets create challenging vent conditions for gas water heaters. Homes near Allegheny Street and Hooverson Heights often sit below grade, trapping moisture and cold air around the tank. Older housing built during the 1950s steel era still uses unlined chimney flues that allow wind gusts to backdraft through the pilot assembly. A healthy pilot flame should stay crisp and blue — yellow or sputtering flames signal trouble.
Safe Relight Procedure for Local Homeowners
To relight safely:
- Turn the gas knob OFF and wait 10 minutes for gas to clear.
- Switch to PILOT, hold the knob down, and click the igniter until a flame appears.
- Keep holding for 30–60 seconds to heat the thermocouple.
- Turn to ON and reset temperature.
If the pilot won’t stay lit, sediment or rust could be blocking airflow. Repeated failure means it’s time for a professional cleaning. Always leave the house immediately and call Mountaineer Gas or Honest Fix if you detect any gas smell.
Typical Pilot Light Problems in Follansbee
Technicians servicing homes on Penn Street and Eldersville Road frequently find pilot outages caused by mineral buildup or aged gas valves. Humidity from river fog accelerates rusting around the pilot bracket, while gusts off the valley can cause sudden flame loss. Honest Fix techs test for proper draft pull, clean or replace the pilot assembly, and calibrate the gas valve for reliable performance year-round.
FAQs
Why does my pilot light go out after laundry or shower use?
Excess moisture and temperature change in tight basements can cause short-term downdrafts. Improving ventilation usually prevents this.
Can I relight the pilot if my igniter doesn’t spark?
You can, with a long lighter — follow your manufacturer’s steps carefully and keep clear of the burner opening.
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.
