The most common cause is a draft of cold air to the hot water tank, which can reduce the flame from the pilot light to the point that it goes out. Many water heaters have components that cause a draft including, but not limited to, open windows, a furnace that cycles on/off too often, congested vents, and blocked air return vents near the water heater.
Secondly, the pilot light could be going out due to a faulty thermocouple. The thermocouple’s job is to detect the presence of a flame and energize a gas valve that will not open until certain conditions are met.
A thermocouple can become dirty, or it can corrode to the point that the pilot light flame is not hot enough to keep the thermocouple energized. Lastly, it may be a problem of inadequate gas pressure.
The pilot light flame will typically extinguish if the gas valve is open, but the gas pressure is too low to maintain the combustion. If your pilot light is continually going out, it is prudent to have a professional come and inspect your hot water tank.
What would cause a pilot light to keep going out?
One of the most common causes is a weak or damaged thermocouple. This device is responsible for sensing heat and shutting off the gas supply when the pilot light is out. If it isn’t working correctly, then it will not keep the gas supply on.
Another cause may be a restricted gas flow. This can occur if the pilot light orifice is clogged, the regulator isn’t allowing enough gas through, or there is a blockage elsewhere in the gas delivery system.
Finally, improper air balance can be a factor. The air and gas mixture must be balanced in order for the pilot light to stay lit. If there is too much air or not enough gas, then the pilot light may go out.
In any of these cases, the best solution is to have a qualified technician inspect and service the system to identify and address the underlying cause.
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 following steps can be taken:
1. Check the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a metal rod located near the pilot light flame. This part is responsible for making sure the pilot flame is burning at the proper temperature and will shut off the gas supply if the flame is not correct.
If the thermocouple is dirty or corrosion has built up, it could be causing the pilot light to not stay lit. Try using a steel brush to clean around the thermocouple before relighting the pilot light.
2. Adjust the air shutter. The air shutter is a valve that regulates the amount of air mixing with the gas to produce the pilot light. If the air shutter is set too low, it will cause the pilot light to go out.
Adjust the air shutter until it produces a steady consistent blue flame with no yellow or orange tips.
3. Check the gas supply. Make sure the gas valve on the water heater is in the “on” position and that there is a proper gas supply to the pilot light. If the pilot light will not light, the valve could be faulty and may need to be replaced.
4. Check the pilot assembly. If the pilot light still won’t stay lit after following the above steps, there could be an issue with the pilot assembly. This includes the thermocouple, the pilot orifice, and the pilot burner.
Replace any damaged components or clean out any debris from the pilot orifice.
Following these steps should help troubleshoot the issue and allow you to keep your water heater’s pilot light burning. If the pilot light still won’t stay lit, contact a professional plumber for further assistance.
Should I worry if the pilot light goes out?
Yes, you should worry if the pilot light goes out. This indicates a potential problem with your system, such as a blockage, a broken part, or a gas leak. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, there could be a problem with the thermocouple, an igniter, or one of the controls.
In these cases, it’s best to call a qualified technician for a professional opinion and proper service. If you sense a gas odour, vacate the area, turn off the gas, and call 911 before calling a professional.
How do you clean a thermocouple on a water heater?
To clean a thermocouple on a water heater, you’ll first need to have the water heater shut off and the power unplugged. You may also need to shut off the gas valve, if applicable. Once the water heater is shut off, you’ll need an adjustable wrench and a small wire brush.
Start by unscrewing the cap at the top of the thermocouple and removing it from the water heater. Inspect it closely for any signs of corrosion or other build-up. If there is any, remove it gently with the wire brush, being careful not to damage the thermocouple wire.
Once the thermocouple is clean, you can reinstall it into the water heater. Be sure to reconnect the wiring with the correct colors, and fasten the cap back onto the thermocouple securely. Finally, turn the water heater back on and plug it back into the power outlet before restarting the gas valve.
What happens if a thermocouple is dirty?
If a thermocouple is dirty, it may not provide an accurate measurement of temperature. Dirt and debris can interfere with the electrical impulses generated by the material causing the thermocouple to produce inaccurate readings.
Additionally, a dirty thermocouple can produce corrosion on the two metal conductors, creating more electrical resistance and more inaccurate results. The most important factor when dealing with a dirty thermocouple is to clean it properly.
This can be done by following the manufacturer’s instructions or, if no specific instructions are provided, using a soft cloth dampened with warm water and a mild detergent. It is also important to make sure that all parts of the thermocouple are clean, as dirt build-up on any single part can affect the overall accuracy of the thermocouple.
How do I know if my thermocouple is broken?
To determine if your thermocouple is broken, the first thing to do is to ensure that the wiring and connection to your instrument panel is secure and in good condition. Additionally, you should inspect your thermocouple for any physical damage such as cracks, corrosion or bending.
Finally, you should measure the thermocouple’s output current with a multimeter and compare it to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it’s working properly. If the thermocouple’s output current is outside of the manufacturer’s specifications, then it’s likely that your thermocouple is broken.
If you are unsure of how to properly test the thermocouple, it’s best to consult a professional to ensure it’s performing correctly.
Can a pilot light get clogged?
Yes, a pilot light can get clogged over time. This is typically caused by debris such as dirt, dust, or small insects like moths getting inside the pilot light and blocking the air flow. The pilot light can also become clogged if there’s a problem with the burner in the appliance, such as a broken or malfunctioning part, or if the tubing or jets that the flame passes through become blocked.
Clogged pilot lights can lead to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in homes, and the only way to fix the problem is to clean or repair the pilot light. To do this, you should first turn off the fuel supply to the pilot light and then either clean any debris from the pilot light using compressed air or replace the pilot light assembly if there are broken parts.
You should also make sure to check the appliance’s gas connections to ensure a tight seal and that the gas lines are free of obstructions.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?
The cost to replace a thermocouple typically ranges from $30 to $60, depending on the type of thermocouple you are replacing. If the thermocouple is required for a gas appliance, such as a water heater or furnace, the cost can run higher due to the need for a certified technician to install the replacement device.
In addition to the cost of the thermocouple itself, you may also be responsible for the cost of the labor, which can add to the total cost of the replacement.
Can I replace a thermocouple myself?
It is possible to replace a thermocouple yourself, but it is not recommended without the proper knowledge, experience, and tools. A thermocouple is part of a gas heating system and is responsible for detecting and regulating flame temperature.
If a thermocouple malfunctions, the flame may not stay lit or could light, but then shut off quickly.
Replacing the thermocouple is the most common repair for a malfunctioning heating system. To successfully replace it, you need to:
• Shut off the gas. As with any gas-related repairs, you need to shut off the gas supply to the furnace and appliance connected to it.
• Disconnect the existing thermocouple from the heating system. Keep track of the wires and connections so you can easily reconnect them later.
• Connect the new thermocouple correctly. Depending on the type of furnace in your home, the setup may vary slightly. Make sure to connect the new thermocouple correctly or it may not work properly.
• Test the system. Once the new thermocouple is installed, turn the gas back on and test the system. Make sure the flame remains lit and that the furnace is working properly.
Although it is possible to replace a thermocouple yourself, it is always best to consult an HVAC technician or your gas supplier if you are unsure. Doing so can help ensure that safety standards are met and that the replacements are completed correctly.
Why would pilot light randomly go out?
Pilot lights can randomly go out for many different reasons, but the most common culprit is a dirty or blocked burner. A dirty burner can disrupt the natural airflow in the stove, which can cause the thermocouple to cool off and turn the gas off.
In many gas stoves, a thermocouple keeps the gas flowing. If the thermocouple cools off too much, it will turn off the gas flow, and in turn, the pilot light. Blockages in the burner can also cause the pilot light to go out, as they can block the flow of gas needed to keep the pilot light burning.
Additionally, the pilot orifice can also become blocked with dirt or debris, which will completely cut off the flow of gas. Other potential reasons for why a pilot light may randomly go out include a bad thermocouple, a damaged or malfunctioning gas control valve, or an issue with the gas valve that supplies the pilot.
Why do I have to keep relighting my pilot light?
The pilot light on a gas appliance is designed to stay lit at all times and when it goes out, it can signify a issue with the gas appliance. If your pilot light keeps going out, there are several possible causes that should be investigated and resolved.
First, check whether the pilot light is being affected by any drafts that may be present. If a draft is present, move the appliance or block the draft to help keep the pilot light burning. Second, check that the pilot light is receiving the proper amount of gas by adjusting or replacing the gas control valve.
Finally, check that the thermocouple, a small device that generates electricity when heated, is working properly. If the thermocouple is defective, it will not generate enough electricity to keep the gas flow open, making it difficult for the pilot light to stay lit.
If you still can’t keep the pilot flame lit after trying these options, contact a certified HVAC technician to help service and repair your appliance.
Does gas still flow when pilot light goes out?
When the pilot light goes out, the gas flow will be disrupted in most cases. Generally, the pilot light helps to open the valve on the gas line, which allows the gas to flow through. Without the pilot light, the gas valve may not be open and can therefore disrupt the gas flow.
In cases where a standing pilot light is used, there may still be a small remnant amount of gas that escapes when the pilot light goes out. This is because the valve is left slightly open, allowing some gas to pass through.
However, in most, if not all cases, the gas flow will almost completely be disrupted when the pilot light goes out.
Can a pilot light cause an explosion?
No, a pilot light by itself is not able to cause an explosion. However, a pilot light can be a contributing factor in an explosion if certain conditions are present. If a pilot flame is left to burn in an environment with high levels of built up gas, the pilot light can ignite the gas and cause an explosion.
Improperly adjusted pilot lights, damaged or deteriorated fittings, and pilot light flames that are too large can all contribute to an explosion in the presence of gas. In addition, a pilot light that is connected to a gas heater can become blocked, causing the gas to build up and potentially create combustion.
To ensure safety, it is important to make sure that the pilot light and its components are regularly inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and local codes.
Why pilot light won t stay on?
One common issue is a blocked gas orifice. Over time, dirt, dust, and other debris can build up on the gas orifice, blocking the flow of gas needed to keep the pilot light lit. Check the orifice for blockage and clear it with a wire or other small tool before attempting to relight the pilot light.
Another issue could be a faulty thermocouple. The thermocouple is an electrical wire device that senses heat, and helps to regulate the flow of gas to the pilot light. If the thermocouple no longer senses the pilot light’s heat, the gas will be shut off.
If the thermocouple is the culprit, it will need to be replaced.
In some cases, a dirty flame sensor can be the culprit. This is a small metallic probe nearby the pilot light, which signals a gas value to shut off if there is no flame present. Cleaning the flame sensor with sandpaper can solve the issue.
It’s possible that the gas line leading to the pilot light has become clogged with rust or other debris. If this is the case, it needs to be replaced.
Finally, the issue could be a faulty or outdated gas valve or thermopile. This is a device that converts the heat from the pilot light into electricity, allowing gas to flow when the valve is opened.
If the gas valve is defective or outdated, it may need to be replaced.
If none of these solutions solve the problem, it may be best to contact a professional for assistance. They can quickly diagnose the issue and determine the best solution.