Water Heater Piezo Igniter Not Working

The other tell tale sign is the wire that runs from the gas valve to the igniter.

Water heater piezo igniter not working. Check the igniter for any visible cracks or breaks. Check if the wire connection is tightened correctly. There are two options either have a new piezo igniter installed by a licensed plumber or have a licensed plumber attend your home or office and re light the burner with a barbeque lighter as seen in the image below. Make sure the electrode is not broken and replace it if it is.

If the pilot is restricted try removing it and clearing it with a stiff brush and or compressed air. Sometimes carbon deposits can build up on the pilot and eventually create a restriction. The piezo igniter is still intact and hooked up but just won t spark. If the pilot does not light the water heater will not heat.

If the pilot cannot be cleaned replace it. Turn the gas off to the water heater and press the piezo igniter. Once pressed the electrode should release the spark. A water heater igniter has a sparking tip that is directed at the location of the pilot light.

Most water heaters do not have any wires attached to the gas valve. If a spark is present every time the igniter is pressed the piezo igniter is fine if no spark is seen replace the piezo igniter. The most common reason for replacing. You should be able to see it above or next to the gas supply line for the pilot light.

While continuing to hold down the pilot button press down on the igniter button three or four times. Make sure the wire is connected at the bottom of the push button that makes the igniter spark. I can t get to the pilot because it s a sealed chamber. The pilot ignites the water heater s gas burner.

This was two days of work and back and forth to home depot. This video provides step by step instructions for replacing the igniter and flame sensor on ao smith gas water heaters. And one damaged cord that the drum sander ate because it was just that kinda day. Connect the piezo igniter to the electrode figure 3 holding the electrode about to away from the shell of the heater with the insulated pliers depress the piezo igniter.

If any visible cracks or breaks are present replace the piezo igniter.