Gas Water Heater Thermocouple Issues

2 problems with a gas water heater thermocouple a bigger problem than just lighting the pilot.

Gas water heater thermocouple issues.

The procedure for lighting a standing pilot always includes lighting the flame then manually holding in the gas valve to keep the flame burning and give the thermocouple time to heat up. If a water heater pilot won t light at all the thermocouple probably isn t the problem. Smoking and carbon formation and combustion odor are problems related to gas water heaters and are very dangerous for the user if not resolved. However in a gas water heater if the light won t come up at all and you re sure the gas is on an obstruction in the pilot tube might be the problem.

Reconnect the end of the thermocouple to the gas control valve where the old thermocouple end was un screwed. This is why the gas water troubleshooting article puts these problems at the top of the list. But if the flame lights and goes out when you let go of the gas knob then the thermocouple is the culprit. Such problems should be carefully analyzed and treated with caution.

Some common problems for all types of hot water heaters are pressure relief valves leaks sediment drain valves anode rods and dip tubes. Open the gas supply to the unit and light the pilot. A flame shield or manifold door that you removed from the heater or water heater. It is important to make sure that there are no leaks on your water heater after you replace the thermocouple.

Reinstall the access covers and slowly turn up the temperature until the burner is lit.