How do you lite a gas water heater pilot?

1. Turn off the water heater and shut off the gas supply to the water heater.

2. Wait 5 minutes for the gas to dissipate.

3. Remove the access panel to the pilot light assembly.

4. Clean the pilot assembly and burner with a wire brush.

5. Check the thermocouple and replace it if necessary.

6. Reattach the access panel.

7. Turn on the gas supply and then turn the pilot light control knob to the "Pilot" setting.

8. Use a long-neck lighter or a match to light the pilot light. Hold the flame near the pilot assembly until the pilot light ignites.

9. Keep the pilot light control knob in the "Pilot" position for 30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up.

10. Turn the pilot light control knob to the "On" setting.

11. Check that the pilot light stays lit. If it goes out, repeat steps 8-10.

Note: If the pilot light does not stay lit, there may be a problem with the thermocouple or the gas valve. Contact a qualified technician for assistance.