GAS HWT Spark works unless pilot button pushed

[amber88]

hi im trying to troubleshoot a problem maybe someone smarter than me can help. my gas hot water heater uses a bbq sparker. when the gas control knob is in the off position, i can see the sparker working thru the sight-glass window. but when i turn the knob to pilot and push it down, there is no spark anymore. i can hear the gas working, but it just wont give me a spark unless the control knob is in the off position. any idea what this means? thanks

 

[Jeff Handy]

Maybe just light the pilot with an actual bbq lighter?
They cost about $3.00 and one will give you many dozens of lights.

 

[amber88]

Maybe just light the pilot with an actual bbq lighter?
They cost about $3.00 and one will give you many dozens of lights.

i thought about trying that, but i dont see an opening anywhere side or bottom i could even get a long match in there, without taking off either the sight-glass, or undoing the shroud to pull the entire thing forward enuf to fit a match in thru the side.

 

[Jeff Handy]

Yes, modern heaters have vapor barriers to try to prevent explosions, less easy access than in the old days.

 

[Jeff Handy]

Post the exact brand, model, serial number of your heater, to get better help from here.

Also, call their customer service line for free advice.

 

[CT18]

when you put it on pilot are you holding down the red knob then trying to light