How to Clean a Gas Pilot Light

Inspect the pilot flame to determine the need for cleaning the pilot tube. A bright blue-colored flame with a greenish center is a properly burning pilot light. If the flame is yellowish or sputtering intermittently, the pilot tube needs cleaning.

Turn off the electrical power to the appliance.

Turn off the gas supply to the appliance and wait for a period of 1 hour before proceeding to the next step. This will allow a safe period of time for the residual gas in the lines to dissipate.

Open the access panel to the pilot light and burner compartment.

Detach the thermocouple tube at the control box using an adjustable wrench. The thermocouple tube runs parallel to the pilot light tube.

Locate the small bracket that holds the pilot tube and thermocouple sensor in place. Loosen the small screw in the center using a screwdriver, then slide the pilot tube out of the bracket.

Clean the outer tip of the pilot tube using a small wire brush and slide a piece of wire or pipe cleaner through the tube to clear any obstructions or dirt.

Slide the pilot tube back into the retention bracket and tighten the center screw to secure it.

Reconnect the thermocouple tube to the control box using an adjustable wrench.

Restore the gas supply to the pilot light and light it according to the manufacturer's printed labeling on the appliance.

Restore the electrical power to the appliance.