Quick Answer
If your Toronto water heater pilot goes out, turn the gas knob OFF for 10 minutes, then to PILOT. Hold it down, click the igniter until a blue flame appears, and keep holding 30–60 seconds before turning ON. If the flame flickers or won’t stay lit, it may be caused by basement dampness, sediment buildup, or a weak thermocouple — don’t relight if you smell gas.
Why Pilot Lights Fail in Toronto Homes
Toronto’s riverfront climate and older housing near Franklin Street, Clark Street, and Findlay Drive make water heaters especially sensitive to moisture and drafts. Many basements here sit below the floodplain, drawing in humid air that corrodes pilot assemblies. In hillside areas like Stratton Heights, flue backdrafts can blow out the pilot during windy days. Because much of Toronto’s housing stock dates to the 1940s–1970s, venting upgrades are often the key to consistent ignition.
Step-by-Step Relight for Safe Operation
Follow these steps carefully:
- Turn the control knob OFF and wait at least 10 minutes.
- Switch to PILOT, press and hold.
- Click the igniter once per second until the flame lights.
- Continue holding for 30–60 seconds to warm the thermocouple.
- Release slowly, then turn to ON.
If it goes out again, don’t keep trying — allow gas to clear fully. Any odor means stop immediately and contact Columbia Gas or Honest Fix for a full inspection.
Common Water Heater Issues in Toronto, OH
Honest Fix technicians see frequent pilot outages caused by sediment from the city’s older water mains. The mineral content builds scale around the burner, causing uneven flame and yellow tipping. Homes along Trenton Street or near Toronto High often experience pilot drafts from unsealed foundation vents. Cleaning the orifice and adjusting the air shutter typically restores a clean, blue flame that stays steady.
FAQs
Why does my pilot light go out after heavy rain?
Moisture in low-level basements near the river can create backdrafts. A vent cap or elevated exhaust pipe prevents this.
Should I shut off the gas if I’m leaving for vacation?
Yes — turn the heater to vacation or pilot-only mode. This reduces gas use and prevents buildup from humidity while you’re away.
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.
