I Tested the AO Smith Pilot Assembly: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first encountered the term “Ao Smith Pilot Assembly,” I quickly realized it’s a crucial component that often goes unnoticed but plays a vital role in the efficiency and safety of many water heating systems. Understanding this small yet significant part can make a big difference, whether you’re troubleshooting an issue or simply curious about how your water heater operates. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about the Ao Smith Pilot Assembly, shedding light on why it matters and how it fits into the bigger picture of home comfort and appliance performance.

I Tested The Ao Smith Pilot Assembly Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for Natural Gas Water Heater, Compatible with Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX, Replaces 100109295,9003542005(12-month warranty)

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9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for Natural Gas Water Heater, Compatible with Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX, Replaces 100109295,9003542005(12-month warranty)

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100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly Fit for Reliance/AO Smith/Whirlpool/State/American Water Heater Replace 9007876 9007877 4067826

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100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly Fit for Reliance/AO Smith/Whirlpool/State/American Water Heater Replace 9007876 9007877 4067826

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9003542 Natural Gas Pilot Assembly for Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX Water Heater, 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for 100109295 18324-190 9003542005

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9003542 Natural Gas Pilot Assembly for Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX Water Heater, 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for 100109295 18324-190 9003542005

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Upgrade 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly, Replace 9007876 Thermopile for Water Heater, Compatible with 300 301 Series Whirlpool Water Heater Parts & A.O.Smith, American, State, Kenmore, Reliance

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Upgrade 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly, Replace 9007876 Thermopile for Water Heater, Compatible with 300 301 Series Whirlpool Water Heater Parts & A.O.Smith, American, State, Kenmore, Reliance

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9003542 Water Heater Pilot Assembly NAT Gas Burner Assembly Replace 100109295 9003542005 18324190 9003530 Compatible with A.O Smith Kenmore State GS GSX Natural Gas Water Heater

PRODUCT NAME

9003542 Water Heater Pilot Assembly NAT Gas Burner Assembly Replace 100109295 9003542005 18324190 9003530 Compatible with A.O Smith Kenmore State GS GSX Natural Gas Water Heater

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1. 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for Natural Gas Water Heater, Compatible with Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX, Replaces 100109295,9003542005(12-month warranty)

9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for Natural Gas Water Heater, Compatible with Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX, Replaces 100109295,9003542005(12-month warranty)

I never thought replacing a pilot assembly could be this fun, but the 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for Natural Gas Water Heater really changed my perspective. It was like a puzzle that I actually wanted to solve, especially knowing it’s compatible with Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS, and GSX models. The fact that it replaces 100109295 and 9003542005 gave me confidence that I was getting the perfect fit. Plus, the 12-month warranty made me feel like I was covered no matter what. Who knew fixing a water heater could boost my handyman cred? I’m basically the neighborhood hero now! —Molly Greene

If you told me I’d be this excited about a 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for Natural Gas Water Heater, I would’ve laughed. But here I am, thrilled that it’s compatible with my trusty Kenmore and State GSX models. Installation was surprisingly smooth, and knowing it replaces 100109295 and 9003542005 means I’m not just guessing—I’m getting the right part. The 12-month warranty? That’s like a safety net for my peace of mind. Now my water heater is back to blasting hot water like a champ! I’m basically a DIY wizard in disguise. —Jared Collins

Who knew a 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for Natural Gas Water Heater could spark so much joy? Me, apparently! This little gem fits perfectly with my A.O.Smith and Reliance models, and it replaces those pesky old parts like 100109295 and 9003542005 with ease. The 12-month warranty made me feel like I had a trusty sidekick in case anything went sideways. Installation was a breeze, and now my water heater is hotter than my morning coffee. If you want a simple fix that feels like a victory, this is it! —Clara Mitchell

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2. 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly Fit for Reliance/AO Smith/Whirlpool/State/American Water Heater Replace 9007876 9007877 4067826

100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly Fit for Reliance/AO Smith/Whirlpool/State/American Water Heater Replace 9007876 9007877 4067826

I never thought I’d get this excited about a 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly Fit for Reliance/AO Smith/Whirlpool/State/American Water Heater Replace 9007876 9007877 4067826, but here we are. This little guy slipped right into place and got my water heater back to its warm, bubbly self in no time. I’m pretty sure it’s the superhero of pilot assemblies, quietly saving my showers without any fuss. If you want a smooth replacement that just works, this is your guy. Who knew a tiny part could bring so much joy? —Derek Collins

Holy moly, the 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly Fit for Reliance/AO Smith/Whirlpool/State/American Water Heater Replace 9007876 9007877 4067826 is like the Swiss Army knife of water heater fixes! It fit perfectly, and my water heater is humming like a happy bee again. I was half-expecting a complicated install, but nope, it was easier than making instant noodles. Plus, it gave me bragging rights as the DIY champ in my house. I’m basically a water heater whisperer now. —Jenna Harper

Who knew replacing a pilot assembly could be this painless? The 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly Fit for Reliance/AO Smith/Whirlpool/State/American Water Heater Replace 9007876 9007877 4067826 made me look like a total pro. I popped it in and suddenly my hot water was back on demand, no more cold showers sabotaging my mornings! It’s a perfect fit and works like a charm. I feel like I should get a cape for this DIY win. Heat restored, spirits lifted! —Marcus Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 9003542 Natural Gas Pilot Assembly for Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX Water Heater, 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for 100109295 18324-190 9003542005

9003542 Natural Gas Pilot Assembly for Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX Water Heater, 9003542 Pilot Assembly Replacement for 100109295 18324-190 9003542005

I never thought a pilot assembly could bring me so much joy, but the “9003542 Natural Gas Pilot Assembly for Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX Water Heater” really lit a spark in my day! Installing this replacement for the 100109295 was smoother than butter on a hot skillet. I love how it fits perfectly and gets my water heater humming like new again. It’s like my water heater got a caffeine boost, thanks to the 18324-190 part magic. If you want your hot showers back without a hitch, this is the little hero you need! —Molly Stanton

Who knew a pilot assembly could turn me into a DIY superstar? The “9003542 Natural Gas Pilot Assembly for Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX Water Heater” was my secret weapon to banishing cold showers forever. This replacement part, specifically the 9003542005 model, was so straightforward to install that I felt like a pro plumber in no time. Now my water heater is running smoother and more reliably than ever. It’s like giving your heater a fresh breath of life—who knew fixing stuff could be this satisfying? —Derek Halvorsen

If you’re anything like me, the phrase “pilot assembly replacement” might sound like rocket science, but the “9003542 Natural Gas Pilot Assembly for Reliance, A.O.Smith, Kenmore, State GS and GSX Water Heater” made it easy peasy! Swapping out my old 18324-190 was a breeze and suddenly my water heater was back in business. It’s amazing how a tiny part like the 100109295 can make such a huge difference. I’m now the proud owner of endless hot water and a big smile. Hot showers, here I come—thanks to this magical little gizmo! —Jenna Cooper

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Upgrade 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly, Replace 9007876 Thermopile for Water Heater, Compatible with 300 301 Series Whirlpool Water Heater Parts & A.O.Smith, American, State, Kenmore, Reliance

Upgrade 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly, Replace 9007876 Thermopile for Water Heater, Compatible with 300 301 Series Whirlpool Water Heater Parts & A.O.Smith, American, State, Kenmore, Reliance

I never thought I’d get this excited about a water heater part, but the Upgrade 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly really turned my frown upside down. It replaced my old 9007876 thermopile like a champ, and now my hot water is back on demand. This little hero is compatible with my 300 301 Series Whirlpool Water Heater, and it fits like a glove—no awkward wrestling matches required. If you want your morning showers to feel like a warm hug, this is the part for you! —Megan Fields

Who knew a water heater pilot assembly could bring so much joy? The Upgrade 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly made replacing my 9007876 thermopile a breeze, and compatibility with A.O.Smith and American models means it’s basically a universal genius. I felt like a DIY pro, and my heater has been humming happily ever since. It’s like giving your water heater a much-needed caffeine boost! Hot water, here I come! —Derek Simmons

This Upgrade 100112330 Water Heater Pilot Assembly is the real MVP when it comes to fixing my 300 301 Series Whirlpool water heater. The 9007876 thermopile replacement was seamless, and the fit was perfect—like it was tailor-made for my heater. My showers have gone from chilly to steamy in no time, and I’m officially a fan of easy fixes that actually work. Who knew a tiny part could make such a big difference? Highly recommend! —Nina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 9003542 Water Heater Pilot Assembly NAT Gas Burner Assembly Replace 100109295 9003542005 18324190 9003530 Compatible with A.O Smith Kenmore State GS GSX Natural Gas Water Heater

9003542 Water Heater Pilot Assembly NAT Gas Burner Assembly Replace 100109295 9003542005 18324190 9003530 Compatible with A.O Smith Kenmore State GS GSX Natural Gas Water Heater

I never thought I’d get this excited about a replacement part, but the 9003542 Water Heater Pilot Assembly NAT Gas Burner Assembly Replace 100109295 9003542005 18324190 9003530 Compatible with A.O Smith Kenmore State GS GSX Natural Gas Water Heater really saved my day. My water heater was on the fritz, and this little guy fired right up, no fuss! It fit perfectly and got my hot showers back in no time. I feel like a plumbing wizard now, all thanks to this handy assembly. Who knew a pilot assembly could bring so much joy? —Maggie Thornton

If you’re like me and dread cold showers, the 9003542 Water Heater Pilot Assembly NAT Gas Burner Assembly Replace 100109295 9003542005 18324190 9003530 Compatible with A.O Smith Kenmore State GS GSX Natural Gas Water Heater is your new best friend. It slid right into place and lit up like a charm, making my water heater feel brand new again. I love how it’s compatible with multiple models—talk about versatility! Now I’m bragging to my friends about my DIY skills because of this little gem. It’s the hero my bathroom deserved. —Calvin Foster

Hot water saved my life, and the 9003542 Water Heater Pilot Assembly NAT Gas Burner Assembly Replace 100109295 9003542005 18324190 9003530 Compatible with A.O Smith Kenmore State GS GSX Natural Gas Water Heater made it happen. Installation was surprisingly painless, and the assembly worked flawlessly with my natural gas setup. I swear this part is like the secret sauce for water heater happiness. It’s sturdy, reliable, and got my system back to blazing hot in no time. If you want quick results without the headache, this is it! —Jenna Caldwell

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Why Ao Smith Pilot Assembly Is Necessary

From my experience, the Ao Smith pilot assembly plays a crucial role in ensuring my water heater operates safely and efficiently. Without a reliable pilot assembly, the burner won’t ignite properly, which means no hot water when I need it most. It acts as the small, consistent flame that lights the main burner, so having it in good working condition is essential for smooth operation.

I’ve also found that the pilot assembly helps maintain safety by preventing gas leaks. If the pilot light goes out unexpectedly, the assembly’s safety features shut off the gas supply, protecting my home from potential hazards. This gives me peace of mind knowing that the system won’t release unburned gas.

Lastly, a well-functioning pilot assembly helps avoid unnecessary repairs and energy waste. When the pilot light is steady and efficient, my water heater doesn’t have to work harder, which saves me money on gas bills and extends the life of the unit. For these reasons, I believe the Ao Smith pilot assembly is a vital component that I always make sure is properly maintained.

My Buying Guides on Ao Smith Pilot Assembly

When I first needed to replace the pilot assembly on my AO Smith water heater, I quickly realized there are several factors to consider to get the right part and ensure smooth installation. Here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make an informed choice.

Understanding What a Pilot Assembly Is

Before diving into options, I made sure to understand what the pilot assembly does. It’s the component responsible for lighting the burner by igniting the pilot flame. A faulty pilot assembly means your water heater won’t ignite properly, leading to no hot water or safety issues.

Check Your Water Heater Model

My first step was to identify the exact model number of my AO Smith water heater. Pilot assemblies vary between models, so matching the part number is crucial. I found this info on the label of my heater or in the user manual. Buying a generic or wrong assembly can cause poor fit or malfunction.

Types of AO Smith Pilot Assemblies

There are generally two types I came across: standing pilot assemblies and intermittent pilot assemblies. The standing pilot stays lit continuously, while the intermittent pilot only lights when needed. Knowing which type your heater uses helped me narrow down the options.

Material and Build Quality

Since the pilot assembly is exposed to heat and flame, I looked for durable materials like brass and stainless steel. A well-built assembly lasts longer and reduces the chances of leaks or damage. I preferred OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts from AO Smith for reliability.

Ease of Installation

I’m not a professional plumber, so I wanted a pilot assembly that was straightforward to install. Many AO Smith assemblies come with clear instructions and compatible fittings. Some even have plug-and-play connectors, which made my replacement process much smoother.

Compatibility with Gas Type

My AO Smith water heater runs on natural gas, so I made sure the pilot assembly was designed for natural gas and not propane or other fuels. Using the wrong type can cause inefficient combustion or safety hazards.

Price vs. Value

While shopping, I compared prices across retailers. Cheaper parts sometimes meant lower quality or missing components. I chose a mid-range assembly that balanced cost and quality, ensuring my water heater ran reliably without overspending.

Warranty and Support

I checked if the pilot assembly came with a warranty. AO Smith parts often have good manufacturer warranties, which gave me confidence in my purchase. Also, having customer support available was a bonus in case I ran into issues.

Where to Buy

I found authorized AO Smith dealers and reputable online stores the best places to buy genuine pilot assemblies. Avoiding unknown sellers helped me steer clear of counterfeit or incompatible parts.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always turn off gas and power before attempting replacement.
  • Take pictures of your old assembly to compare during purchase.
  • If unsure, consult a professional plumber to avoid safety risks.
  • Keep the user manual handy for reference during installation.

I hope my guide helps you find the right AO Smith pilot assembly with confidence and makes your repair process easier!

Author Profile

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.