The pilot light keeps going out on my gas operated hot water heater. It is only 3 years old, state brand. We can light it but then after a short time it goes out. What could be the problem do I need a plumber? Thank you for your time and assistance.

I had that happen to me a few months ago. The problem was that the part that puts the gas out was somehow dirty and clogged. I could light it and it would go out after a few hours. Maybe that is the problem with yours.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by krisreid58

the pilot light keeps going out on my gas operated hot water heater. it is only 3 years old, state brand. we can light it but then after a short time it goes out. what could be the problem do I need a plumber? Thank you for your time and assistance.

---

The orfice where the flame is could definitely be dirty. Try rubbing fine steel wool lightly over and around the tip before you light it again.
Make sure the door covering the opening is properly installed as drafts can cause the flame to go out.
Also, it's possible your gas pressure has dropped for any number of reasons and you need to open the adjustment screw a little to achieve a slightly larger flame. The screw could be close to to the orfice or it could be on the main gas control valve near where the pilot tube exits the control. Try looking here first.