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Troubleshooting a Water Heater Pilot Light That Won't Stay Lit

water-heater


This guide provides straightforward steps to resolve a water heater pilot light that won't stay lit, focusing on inspecting and potentially replacing the thermocouple, and clearing any obstructions.

30-60 minutes
$10 - $30 (for thermocouple if needed)

Diagnosis

When your water heater's pilot light repeatedly goes out, the most common culprit is the thermocouple, which might be dirty or malfunctioning. This small but important safety feature signals the gas valve to remain open only when it detects the pilot flame. If it fails to sense the flame, it automatically shuts off the gas supply to prevent potential hazards. Another possibility is a buildup of debris around the pilot light opening or a weak gas flow.

Tools Needed

  • Screwdriver set
  • Wire brush or sandpaper
  • Gloves
  • Flashlight
  • New thermocouple (if needed)

Warnings

  • Always turn off the gas supply to the water heater before attempting any repairs.
  • If you smell gas, turn off the gas immediately, ventilate the area, and call a professional.
  • Be careful not to damage the gas lines or other components.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. First, locate and turn off the gas supply to your water heater using the shut-off valve.
  2. Next, find the pilot light assembly and the thermocouple, which is usually located near the main burner.
  3. Gently clean the tip of the thermocouple with a soft wire brush or fine-grit sandpaper. Be careful not to damage it.
  4. If cleaning doesn't resolve the issue, you might need to replace the thermocouple. To do this, turn off the gas supply again.
  5. Carefully disconnect and remove the old thermocouple.
  6. Install the new thermocouple, making sure it's positioned correctly to sense the pilot flame.
  7. Once replaced, turn the gas supply back on.
  8. Follow the instructions typically found on your water heater to attempt relighting the pilot light.
  9. If the pilot light continues to extinguish, check for any obstructions around the pilot light opening and ensure the gas flow is adequate.

Troubleshooting

  • Ensure the thermocouple is positioned correctly and making good contact with the pilot flame.
  • Check if the pilot orifice is clogged; if so, carefully clean it with a small needle or pin.
  • Verify that the gas control valve is functioning properly; if not, it may need professional replacement.

Preventive Tips

  • Schedule annual maintenance for your water heater to check all components.
  • Keep the area around the water heater clean and free of dust and debris.
  • Periodically check the pilot light to ensure it's burning steadily.

Brief Summary

If your water heater's pilot light keeps going out, don't worry! This often points to a small part called a thermocouple that might need a little attention. Think of the thermocouple as a safety switch; it tells the gas valve to stay open when the pilot light is burning. If it's not working correctly, it shuts off the gas to keep you safe. We'll walk you through how to check and fix it, so you can get your hot water back.

Content Details

Keywords: water heater, pilot light, thermocouple, gas appliance, repair, troubleshooting, hot water

Meta Description: Experiencing a water heater pilot light that won't stay lit? Discover simple troubleshooting steps, including cleaning or replacing the thermocouple, to restore your hot water supply.

Guide Confidence: High

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