Quick Answer
To relight a Wellsburg water heater pilot, turn the gas knob OFF for 10 minutes, then to PILOT. Hold it down and click the igniter until a steady blue flame appears. Keep holding for about 45 seconds before switching to ON. If the flame won’t hold, humidity, rust, or backdrafts from the river valley could be the cause — never relight if gas odor is present.
Why Pilot Lights Fail in Wellsburg Homes
Wellsburg’s blend of hillside neighborhoods and Ohio River lowlands creates uneven airflow that affects gas venting. Homes near Charles Street, Bethany Pike, and 27th Street often have water heaters in below-grade basements where damp air collects. Older homes from the post-war era still rely on natural-draft flues that pull poorly in cold weather. Because Wellsburg’s air is heavy with moisture, small amounts of rust or debris can quickly disrupt the pilot flame.
How to Relight Your Water Heater Safely
- Turn the gas knob OFF and wait at least 10 minutes for gas to clear.
- Set to PILOT, press and hold the knob while clicking the igniter once per second.
- Once the blue flame appears, hold for 30–60 seconds.
- Release slowly and turn the knob ON.
If the flame flickers, turns yellow, or fails to hold, sediment or a blocked pilot tube could be responsible. Don’t attempt repeated relights without waiting for gas to dissipate. If gas odor persists, leave the home immediately and call Mountaineer Gas or Honest Fix.
Common Water Heater Issues in Wellsburg
Honest Fix technicians often find pilot failures caused by vent downdrafts along the valley. Homes on Commerce Street and Pleasant Avenue experience the most backdrafting during high winds. Sediment from municipal water also causes uneven heating, which can weaken the pilot’s stability. Cleaning the pilot orifice, checking for rust, and verifying draft pressure are quick fixes that restore consistent hot water safely.
FAQs
Why does my pilot light go out on windy days?
Strong gusts off the river can push air down vent pipes, extinguishing the flame. A vent cap or directional hood usually stops it.
Can I relight my pilot after a long power outage?
Yes — but always wait 10 minutes before trying and follow the lighting steps carefully to avoid trapped gas ignition.
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.
