Modern gas water heaters have flammable vapor and combustion safety devices that shut the pilot off on purpose when something is wrong. That is why a pilot that keeps going out needs a diagnosis, not repeated relighting.
Safety first
If you smell gas, do not light anything or touch electrical switches. Leave the house and call SDG&E or 911 from outside. Rheem's manual says not to attempt repair of gas piping, the gas control, burners, vent connectors or other safety devices.
Causes Rheem lists
- Loose or defective thermocouple.
- Defective safety magnet in the gas control.
- The gas control's single-use gas shutoff device has opened.
- The combustion shutoff device has tripped, from flammable vapors or blocked combustion air inlets.
What an owner can safely do
- Relight following the lighting instructions on the heater, holding the gas knob down as directed.
- Remove gasoline, paint, solvents and other flammable products from the area.
- Clear debris from the combustion air inlet openings on the heater jacket, keeping at least an inch of clearance.
- Make sure the heater has enough combustion and ventilation air.
When to call a technician
If the pilot or burner will not stay lit after those checks, Rheem says to contact a qualified service technician. A.O. Smith's manual likewise says to turn the gas control off and call a service technician or the gas supplier if the pilot will not stay lit after several tries.
General information, not professional or legal advice; follow your manufacturer's manual, and your installer and local permit office have the final word. Sources:Rheem Residential Gas FVIR Use & Care Manual (AP23059); A.O. Smith gas water heater owner's manual (184769); A.O. Smith, How to light a pilot light.
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