There could be several reasons why your pilot light will not stay lit on your gas water heater. The most common reason is that the igniter has failed, which means the igniter is not sparking when it’s supposed to.
Other possible causes include a clogged burner or burner port, clogged thermocouple, blocked exhaust fans, improper venting, and incorrect gas pressure. In addition, if the thermocouple is not working correctly, the water heater won’t stay lit.
The thermocouple is a safety device which monitors the pilot flame and cuts off the gas supply if the pilot flame ever stops. If the thermocouple is not functioning properly, then the pilot flame will not stay lit.
If you have checked all these things but the pilot still won’t stay lit, you should have a professional come and take a look at your water heater.
What do you do if your water heater pilot light won t stay lit?
If your water heater pilot light won’t stay lit, the first step is to ensure there are no natural gas or propane leaks. If a leak is present, contact a qualified technician to repair the leak.
Once you have ensured that there is no natural gas or propane leak, you will want to check the main burner situation. If the main burner orifice looks clogged, you can clean it with a wire brush. If the main burner orifice looks damaged, you will need to replace the burner.
If the main burner issue is not the problem, verify that the pilot light is lit. If its lit then next step you should take is to check the thermocouple. It is located between the pilot light and the primary burner and it generates enough vapor to keep the pilot light burning.
If the thermocouple is bad it will need to be replaced as it cannot be cleaned or repaired.
The next thing to check is the pilot light assembly. If the assembly is partially blocked by a buildup of soot or rust, the pilot light may have trouble staying lit. You can try cleaning the interior of the pilot light tube with a clean cloth or brush.
If all the steps above have been taken and the pilot light still won’t stay lit, you will want to contact a qualified technician. A technician can inspect your water heater and diagnose the problem as it could be anything from a faulty ignition control module to corrosion in the flue.
Why does my gas water heater pilot light keep going out?
It could be due to a faulty thermocouple, which is the device that senses when the flame is on and shuts off the gas supply if the flame goes out. It could also be a clogged air inlet, resulting in a slow flow of air and an inadequate pilot flame that can easily be blown out.
Too much dirt or dust in the gas orifice can also be an issue. Other possible causes could be that the pilot flame is too small or too far from the thermocouple, a problem with the gas pressure, or a faulty thermopile that is not generating enough voltage to keep the pilot light lit.
To correct the problem, it’s best to seek the help of a qualified service technician, as gas lines and water heaters can be dangerous if not handled properly. The technician can inspect the equipment and make any needed repairs or adjustments.
In some cases, replacing the thermocouple may do the trick. If the pilot flame is too small, the technician may need to adjust the size and position of the flame in relation to the thermocouple. It’s also important to have the gas pressure checked, as too high or too low levels can affect the performance.
Replacing the thermopile may be necessary if that is the culprit.
Why does my pilot light go out when I release the pilot light knob?
When you release the pilot light knob after lighting the pilot light, the gas to the pilot light should shut off immediately. This action is intended to prevent the buildup of gas that can become explosive and ultimately cause a fire or explosion.
If the pilot light goes out when you release the knob, there is likely an issue with the thermocouple (a security device) or the gas valve that’s preventing the gas from staying lit. To ensure the safety of your home and family, you should contact a professional to inspect and repair the appliance as soon as possible.
The professional can inspect the gas valve and thermocouple for any noticeable signs of damage or breakage, clean them, and test the integrity of the control system. If needed, the professional can also adjust the gas pressure for the appliance to ensure it is burning correctly.
Why won’t my pilot light won’t stay lit?
There could be a few different reasons why your pilot light won’t stay lit. One possible explanation is that there is a thermocouple issue, which is a device that regulates the flow of gas to the pilot light and prevents the flow if the pilot light goes out.
If the thermocouple is not working as it should, it will shut off the gas flow and the pilot light will not stay lit. Another possible explanation is that the gas valve which controls the flow of gas to the pilot light may be damaged or stuck in the off position and needs to be replaced.
If you have checked these components and they all seem to be working properly, then it is likely that the pilot light orifice is clogged or dirty. This can be cleaned by disconnecting the pilot light tubing and allowing it to soak in a mixture of baking soda and water, then rinsed off and reconnected.
If none of these solutions solve the problem it may be necessary to call a professional to further investigate and make any necessary repairs.
Should I worry if the pilot light goes out?
Yes, if the pilot light goes out you should be concerned. While a extinguished pilot light is often a symptom of a physically broken, disconnected, or clogged part, the underlying cause of the problem can be more serious.
If the problem is related to your gas line, an appliance venting, or the air supply, you could be at risk for a dangerous buildup of gas. In any case, it is important to call a professional to inspect and repair the issue as soon as possible.
Make sure to avoid using any gas appliances until the professional has determined the problem and made necessary repairs.
How do I clean my thermocouple?
Cleaning a thermocouple involves a few steps to ensure they remain in the best condition. First, you should try to prevent contamination of the thermocouple junction by keeping it away from unwanted aerosols, vapors, corrosives and solvents.
To clean the thermocouple wires, use a clean dry cloth or cotton swab to wipe away any dirt or dust. Be sure to clean the wires with care so you don’t introduce any scratches or other damage that might disrupt the thermocouple performance.
You should never use any chemical or abrasive cleaners on a thermocouple. If the thermocouple connections become contaminated with insulation or other deposits, confirm the type of material used on the connections and then use a cleaner that is specifically recommended for that material.
Finally, always make sure to disconnect power or any other source before cleaning a thermocouple. After cleaning, check for proper operation and wiring to ensure that the thermocouple is still in correct working order and that connections are secure.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?
The cost to replace a thermocouple can vary greatly depending on the type and model of the appliance, the type of thermocouple, and the difficulty in accessing the defective part. Prices for a thermocouple can range from as low as $6 (USD) for basic models up to $50 or more for high end models with complex installation.
Replacement kits typically cost anywhere from $10 to $30 and usually include the thermocouple, instructions, and hardware needed for installation. Professional installation charges can vary widely, depending on the type of appliance, the size and complexity of the job, and labor rates in your area.
In general, the cost of a thermocouple replacement kit and professional installation can be anywhere from $25 to $125, depending on the factors mentioned above.
Can I replace a thermocouple myself?
Replacing a thermocouple is something you can do yourself, but it isn’t for the faint of heart and should only be attempted by someone with some experience dealing with gas appliances and electrical systems.
If you choose to tackle this job on your own, the very first step is to shut off the gas to the appliance. Next you will want to unplug the thermocouple from its receptacle and remove the thermocouple from the gas valve.
Make sure that you use caution and proper safety precautions when removing the thermocouple, as you will be dealing with electrical components and gas line connections.
Once the thermocouple is removed, you can then decide on the type of replacement you need. Try to select the same type of thermocouple as the original. If it isn’t available, or if you can’t identify the proper type, consult a professional.
Different thermocouples are designed for different fuels and appliances, and using the wrong type can be dangerous.
Once you have the replacement thermocouple, it is time to start installing it. Start by unscrewing the valve and inserting the thermocouple into its proper position. Then reconnect the thermocouple to the gas line and screw it in tightly to ensure that no gas is leaking.
After that, plug the thermocouple back into the list receptacle and then check to make sure the connection is secure. Then turn the gas back on and check the appliance to see that the flame is properly regulated.
You should always use the utmost caution when dealing with any electrical or gas system. If you are not entirely comfortable with replacing a thermocouple yourself, it is best to consult a professional.
How long do water heater thermocouples last?
The average lifespan of a water heater thermocouple is about 10 years, depending on how often the heater is used and the maintenance that is done on it. In some cases, a thermocouple can last much longer; however, on average, it’s around a decade.
Thermocouples are made up of two different metals and can corrode over time due to their exposure to water and humidity. As corrosion sets in and accelerates, the thermocouple may become less effective, thus requiring replaced if it stops working.
Periodically checking the thermocouple and cleaning the corroded areas should help extend its lifespan.
Another factor to consider when it comes to the lifespan of a water heater thermocouple is the type and brand. Cheaper models may have a much shorter lifespan than higher quality brands and types. Therefore, investing in a good quality thermocouple may save you money in the long run as it will last longer and may even come with a longer warranty.
In short, the average lifespan of a water heater thermocouple is around 10 years but can vary significantly depending on how often the heater is used, the maintenance that is done on it, the type, and the brand.
Why does my pilot light keep going out after replacing thermocouple?
It is possible that your pilot light is going out after replacing the thermocouple due to a couple of different reasons. The first and most common reason is that there is an issue with the gas flow to the pilot light.
It could be that the gas pressure is too low or that there is a blockage in the line. In either case, this will cause the pilot light to go out when there is not enough fuel to keep the flame burning.
The second reason could be that the thermocouple is not properly adjusted or is not the correct size for your pilot light. If the thermocouple is too small, it will not be able to sense the heat generated from the pilot light and will shut off the gas flow when it does not detect the flame anymore.
Similarly, if the thermocouple is not properly adjusted, it may not be able to detect the heat and will shut off the gas flow even though sufficient fuel is present. In either case, the pilot light will go out.
To ensure that you have the right size thermocouple and the gas flow is not blocked, you should consult a qualified technician to perform the necessary adjustments and repairs.
How do you clean a pilot light sensor?
Cleaning a pilot light sensor is a quick and easy task, but it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safety. Generally speaking, the process goes as follows:
1. Turn off the gas shutoff valve to the pilot light and ensure the burner knob is in the off position.
2. Locate the pilot light orifice, which should be attached to the burner nozzle.
3. Unscrew the pilot light orifice and gently move it away from the burner nozzle.
4. Clean the orifice with a dry cloth, making sure to remove all debris.
5. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for proper pilot light adjustment and ensure the opening of the pilot light orifice is at the correct size. If necessary, use a needle-nose pliers to adjust the size of the opening.
6. Reinstall the pilot light orifice, making sure to securely tighten the connection.
7. Open the gas shutoff valve, turn on the burner knob, and carefully light the pilot light. The pilot light should ignite and stay lit. If it fails to stay lit, the problem may be related to the pilot light orifice or there may be a deeper problem with the lighting assembly.
With proper care and maintenance, the pilot light sensor should remain in good working condition and should not require additional cleaning or adjustment.
Should the pilot light be touching the thermocouple?
No, the pilot light should not be touching the thermocouple. The pilot light should be close, but it should not be touching the thermocouple. The thermocouple is the device that sends a small electrical current to the gas valve when the pilot light is lit.
If the pilot light touches the thermocouple, the current is not strong enough to keep the valve open, making it difficult to light the pilot light. In order to properly ignite the pilot light and make sure it stays lit, the pilot light should be close enough to the thermocouple to heat it, but not close enough to make contact.
Is it safe if pilot light goes out?
No, it is not safe if the pilot light goes out. This can be a sign that a problem with the appliance has occurred, or could occur in the near future. Gas appliances rely on a pilot light to ignite the main burner, which produces the heat.
If the pilot light goes out, it means that a significant amount of air and/or gas is leaking out of the appliance, potentially resulting in a hazardous environment. In addition to being dangerous, a malfunctioning pilot light can also negatively affect the efficiency of the appliance and increase operational costs.
Therefore, if a pilot light goes out, it is important to get it fixed as soon as possible to ensure safety and optimal performance of the appliance.
What happens when thermocouple goes out?
When a thermocouple goes out, it means that it is no longer able to accurately measure the temperature of the environment. A thermocouple is a device that measures temperature by creating an electrical circuit when two different metals are joined together.
When the temperature changes, the metals expand or contract at different rates and create an electrical voltage which is used to measure the temperature.
When a thermocouple goes out, it may lose its accuracy and therefore it is not able to correctly measure the temperature. This could lead to inaccurate readings and cause problems in the equipment that it is connected to.
Additionally, it could be dangerous if the equipment is related to any kind of hazardous material. Depending on the context in which the thermocouple is used, it may be necessary to replace or repair it as soon as possible.