The State Select water heater family uses a traditional pilot light system to ignite the burner and heat water. Understanding how the pilot light functions, common signs of trouble, and safe relighting procedures can help homeowners maintain reliable hot water. This guide covers why pilot lights go out, how to relight them correctly, and when to seek professional service. Accurate, practical information is provided to help users optimize performance and safety for State Select models.

How the Pilot Light Works On State Select Water Heaters

State Select water heaters typically use a standing pilot or intermittent pilot system. In a standing pilot setup, a small flame remains lit at all times to ignite the main burner when hot water is needed. A thermocouple or flame sensor detects the flame and signals the control valve to keep the burner supplied with gas. If the flame goes out, the gas supply is shut off to prevent leaks. In intermittent systems, the spark igniter lights a burner only when hot water is required, reducing continuous flame exposure. Recognizing which type your unit uses helps with safe relighting and troubleshooting.

Common Signs Your Pilot Light Might Be Malfunctioning

No hot water or insufficient hot water during showers or chores.
Flickering or unstable flame when the burner should light.
Gas odors near the unit, which require immediate attention.
Gas valve click sounds without ignition.
Thermocouple or flame sensor corrosion or obvious wear on components.

Safety Precautions Before Relighting a Pilot Light

Turn off the gas supply and, if applicable, switch off the unit’s power at the circuit breaker.
Ventilate the area and wait for any lingering gas to dissipate before proceeding.
Consult the user manual for your specific State Select model to locate the pilot and control valve.
Do not relight if you smell gas aggressively or hear hissing; evacuate and contact the gas company or emergency services.

How To Relight The Pilot Light On State Select Water Heaters

Ensure the gas shutoff valve is fully closed, then remove the access panel to reach the burner and pilot assembly.
Set the thermostat to a low setting and turn the gas control knob to the “Off” position. Wait 5 minutes for gas to clear.
Turn the knob to the “Pilot” position and press and hold the reset or reset/ignite button if present. While holding, light the pilot with the provided lighter or the built-in igniter if your model has one.
Continue to hold the reset button for about 30 seconds after the pilot lights, then release slowly and confirm the main burner lights when you turn the control knob to “On.”
Replace the access panel and restore power or resume normal operation. If the flame goes out, turn the knob to “Off,” wait a few minutes, and retry.

Troubleshooting If The Pilot Won’t Stay Lit

Dirty or misaligned flame sensor: Clean or replace the sensor and ensure it is properly positioned to detect the flame.
Gas supply issues: Confirm the gas line is open and delivering steady pressure. Contact your utility or a technician if you suspect supply problems.
Thermocouple problems: A worn or damaged thermocouple can prevent ignition. Replacement may be necessary.
Venting obstructions: Blocked or restricted venting can cause flame instability. Inspect vent pipes for debris, bird nests, or snow buildup.
Vent seals or seals around the burner: Check for gas leaks around seals and tighten or replace as needed.

Maintenance Tips To Extend The Life Of Your State Select Water Heater

Schedule annual professional inspections to ensure safe gas operation and efficient combustion.
Test the automatic gas valve and pressure relief valve as recommended in the manual.
Keep the area around the heater clear of dust, lint, and flammable materials to maintain safe combustion and accessible service points.
Inspect and clean the flame sensor and burner ports periodically to maintain consistent ignition and flame quality.
Replace worn components (thermocouple, flame sensor, igniter) with OEM parts to preserve safety and reliability.

When To Call A Technician

If a pilot light repeatedly fails to stay lit after relighting attempts.
If you detect a persistent gas odor or hissing sound near the unit.
If you notice water leaks, unusual noises, or a noticeable drop in hot water temperature that persists after troubleshooting.
If you are unsure about any step or if the unit is older and showing multiple performance issues.

Understanding The Impact On Efficiency And Safety

A properly functioning pilot light ensures reliable hot water delivery and efficient fuel use. A flame that is too large wastes gas, while a flame that is too small may fail to ignite the burner promptly. Regular maintenance and timely component replacements help maintain energy efficiency and reduce the risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide exposure. Following manufacturer guidelines for your specific State Select model is essential for safe operation.

Additional Resources And Safety Notes

Always refer to the State Select user manual for model-specific procedures and diagrams.
Keep a certified gas technician’s contact information accessible for emergency service or complex repairs.
Install and maintain a working carbon monoxide detector near the water heater and test it regularly.