Seasonal PrepUpdated July 5, 2026
As we move into another cold Montgomery winter, local homeowners should keep a close eye on their water heaters. Around here, freezing temperatures can last for months. A sudden loss of hot water in the middle of winter is more than inconvenient, it can mean cold showers, trouble doing laundry, even trouble keeping pipes from freezing in some homes. One of the most common culprits when a gas water heater stops producing hot water is a pilot light that has gone out or won't stay lit.
Why Pilot Lights Matter for Local Homes
Most homes in Montgomery built before the past decade have water heaters with a standing pilot light. When the pilot goes out, the burner can't fire, so the tank stops heating water. In cold weather, hot water can run out fast. Since our winters routinely dip below freezing, reliable hot water isn't just for comfort, it helps protect your plumbing system in the harshest months.
The municipal water here is moderately hard because it comes from the Fox River. That means more scale can build up inside older water heaters, sometimes interfering with safe and reliable pilot operation.
Why Pilot Lights Go Out
Pilot lights can go out for a few reasons, especially as units age. Here are some issues we run into most often in Montgomery homes:
- Drafts from cold, windy conditions, especially in unfinished basements or utility rooms
- Thermocouple failure or misalignment, preventing the gas valve from staying open
- Dirty or clogged pilot assembly, often due to scale or dust buildup
- Problems with the gas supply line or control valve
- Issues with the main burner or air intake, sometimes made worse by homes with newer, tighter building envelopes
Rapid development in Montgomery means you'll find both newer systems and some aging tanks that are overdue for maintenance. No matter the age, if your water heater's pilot won't stay lit, it's important to troubleshoot safely.
Steps to Relight a Standard Gas Water Heater Pilot
If you're comfortable working around gas appliances and your unit has a traditional pilot, you can attempt these steps. Always read your manufacturer's instructions first. If you ever smell gas, stop immediately and leave the area, it's time to contact a professional.
- Locate the gas control knob. Turn it to "off" and wait at least 5 minutes to clear any gas that may have built up.
- Turn the knob to "pilot." While holding the button or knob down, use a long lighter or the appliance's ignitor (if equipped) to relight the pilot.
- Continue holding the button down for 30-60 seconds after ignition. Release it gently. The pilot should stay lit. If it goes out, repeat once or twice.
- If the pilot still won't stay lit after several tries, the thermocouple may need cleaning or replacement, or you may have a bigger issue.
Some newer models have sealed combustion chambers or electronic ignition systems. If you aren't sure how your water heater works or run into trouble, let our team handle it.
Common Warning Signs of Water Heater Trouble
Sometimes the pilot light is just a symptom. Watch for these signs that your water heater may need a professional touch:
- Rumbling or popping noises from sediment buildup (common with our water hardness)
- Discolored or rusty hot water
- Water pooling around the base of the heater
- Water takes longer to heat than usual, or doesn't heat at all
- Frequent need to relight the pilot
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to leaks, wasted energy, or even dangerous situations if gas is involved. Routine water heater maintenance is as important as regular drain cleaning or leak detection and repair, especially in older parts of Montgomery where plumbing systems can be a mix of old and new.
When to Call a Pro
Working with gas and hot water isn't for everyone. If you've tried relighting the pilot and it still won't hold, or if you notice any burnt insulation, odd noises, or the smell of gas, don't risk it. The issue could be a faulty thermocouple, gas control valve, or something deeper in the system. Older tanks sometimes develop cracks or leaks that can lead to bigger water damage issues. Our plumbers are trained to diagnose and safely repair water heaters, from supply pipe repairs to flushing out sediment or fitting a new thermocouple. We also check for pressure problems or issues with your gas line if needed. Staying ahead of problems keeps your hot water running through every freeze-thaw cycle Montgomery throws at us.
Seasonal Checklist for Montgomery Water Heaters
- Test your pilot light before winter sets in, don't wait until the first freeze
- Flush your tank annually to control sediment, especially with hard water
- Check for visible rust, leaks, or damaged insulation
- Verify your pressure relief valve works correctly
- Inspect and clean the area around the heater, and keep vents unobstructed
If you have a sump pit nearby, as many homes around the Fox River do, make sure your sump pump is ready for the season too. A well-maintained water heater and sump system go hand in hand in preventing basement problems.
If you want a reliable hot water supply through another Montgomery winter, start by making sure your pilot light and water heater are up to the job. For expert help relighting, troubleshooting, and maintaining your system, call our local crew at 331-216-0396. We know what these homes face and we're here when you need a hand.