Having a gas water heater pilot light that repeatedly goes out can be very frustrating, but understanding the potential causes can help troubleshoot the problem. One of the most common reasons for the pilot light to repeatedly go out is if the air inlet is blocked.
Check to see if there are any obstructions or debris blocking the air intake, as this can decrease the flow of air to the pilot light, leading to it going out.
Another thing to check is the thermocouple. This is the part that senses whether the pilot is lit and keeps the valve open so that gas continues to flow and the pilot remains lit. If the thermocouple is faulty, then it won’t be able to tell the gas valve to stay open and the pilot light will repeatedly go out.
Finally, a third possible cause for a gas water heater pilot light to go out is the gas control valve. With time, parts of the valve can corrode and cause blockages, which would mean that the pilot light wouldn’t receive enough gas, causing it to go out.
Overall, understanding the potential causes of a gas water heater pilot light going out can help troubleshoot the problem. If the air intake is blocked, the thermocouple is faulty, or the gas control valve is corroded, then these issues will need to be addressed in order for the pilot light to remain lit.
What do you do if your pilot light won’t stay lit?
If your pilot light won’t stay lit, you would need to check the gas line leading to the pilot light. First, shut off the gas valve. Wait for at least 10 minutes for the gas smell to dissipate. Inspect the gas line leading to the pilot light to make sure it is connected properly and not leaking.
If the line is good, reinstate the gas flow and try lighting the pilot light again. If it still won’t stay lit, you may need to check the thermocouple, which is the safety device that determines whether the pilot light is lit or off.
Make sure the thermocouple is clean and connected properly to the pilot light. If it’s still not working, you might need to replace it. If that still doesn’t work, you should contact a professional for help.
How do you clean a thermocouple on a water heater?
Cleaning a thermocouple on a water heater is a fairly straightforward process that can be done in a few steps:
1. Firstly, turn off the power to the water heater.
2. Next, turn off the cold water supply and and the hot water supply.
3. Next, open the hot water tap so that the water has somewhere to go.
4. Now, remove the access panel on the water heater to expose the thermocouple.
5. Carefully loosen the thermocouple from the bracket and lift it out of the water heater.
6. Using a wire brush, clean the contamination off the outside of the thermocouple.
7. Use a cloth to wipe away any loose dirt or debris that may be on the inside of the water heater where the thermocouple sits.
8. Put the thermocouple back in the water heater and make sure it is secure.
9. Finally, turn on the water supply and power to the water heater.
How do I know if my thermocouple is broken?
If you suspect that your thermocouple is broken, there are several methods you can use to test and diagnose the issue.
The first method is to use an ohm meter to check for continuity. This involves disconnecting the thermocouple from the associated appliance or device, and then using the ohm meter to check the plunger of the thermocouple.
If it is functioning properly, the ohm meter should read between three and forty mV. If the reading is off or if the ohm meter indicates an open circuit, then the thermocouple is likely broken and needs to be replaced.
Another way to test a thermocouple is by using the self-test method. This involves connecting the thermocouple to a self-test device, and then heating one side of the thermocouple to generate a voltage.
If the voltage reads zero or near zero, then the thermocouple may be broken due to a poor connection.
The third way to test a thermocouple is with a multimeter. This method involves connecting the thermocouple to the multimeter and setting it to the appropriate range to measure the thermocouple’s voltage reading.
If the reading is within the expected range and does not change when the thermocouple is heated, then the thermocouple is functioning properly. If the reading is too low, or if it fluctuates with heat, then the thermocouple is likely broken and needs to be replaced.
Ultimately, the best way to know if your thermocouple is broken is to have it professionally tested by a skilled technician. This will ensure that the thermocouple is working reliably and that all possible factors have been taken into consideration.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?
The cost of replacing a thermocouple depends on a few factors, such as the type of thermocouple that you need, the type of installation, and the complexity of the job. For example, replacing a standard thermocouple with basic installation might cost anywhere from $50 to $75, while a more complex job involving a more expensive thermocouple and professional installation could cost significantly more.
Additionally, some types of thermocouples may require special tools or components that will add to the cost. The best way to get an accurate cost estimate for replacing a thermocouple is to contact a qualified contractor to assess the job and provide an estimate for the cost of labor and materials.
Why does my pilot light keep going out after replacing thermocouple?
The first thing to check is whether the thermocouple is properly installed and securely connected to the mounting bracket with the proper size nut and washer. Also ensure that the thermocouple is not in contact with any part of the pilot assembly.
If the thermocouple is properly installed and the problem persists, then it is possible that either: a) the thermocouple is defective and needs replacing, b) the gas supply to the pilot is restricted, or c) the pilot gas orifice is the wrong size.
If the thermocouple is confirmed to be properly installed and the gas supply is not restricted, then it is likely that the pilot orifice is the wrong size. The size of the pilot orifice determines the amount of gas that is delivered to the flame and should be matched to the BTU output of the main burner.
If the pilot orifice is too large or small, then the main burner may not stay lit. The size of the orifice can also be affected by dirt or corrosion buildup, in which case it should be cleaned or replaced.
Finally, if all of these checks are complete, it may be necessary to replace the thermocouple with one of a different length. Depending on how far away the thermocouple is from the pilot flame, a longer or shorter thermocouple may be necessary in order to detect the pilot flame accurately.
Should I worry if the pilot light goes out?
Yes, you should worry if your pilot light goes out. The pilot light is an important safety feature that keeps your gas appliances from emitting unsafe levels of gas. If your pilot light goes out, immediately turn off and unplug the appliance and open windows for ventilation.
You should never try to relight the pilot light yourself; instead, contact a professional for assistance. Even if you can’t smell any gas in the room, it’s still important to get help from an expert to ensure that your appliance is safe and is not emitting any dangerous levels of gas.
The technician can quickly and efficiently check the device to see if there’s a possible cause and then relight the pilot light if necessary.
Why does my pilot light go out when I release the pilot light knob?
When you release the pilot light knob, the flow of gas is interrupted. This causes the flame to go out. The pilot light is a small flame that acts as a constant supply of gas to the main burner of your furnace.
When it is released, the gas supply is cut off and the flame goes out. The purpose of the pilot light is to ensure that the furnace has a continuous supply of gas in case of a power outage or other emergency.
The pilot light must be lit in order for the furnace to operate correctly. If the pilot light goes out, you must light it again in order to get your furnace running again. This can often be done simply by pushing the pilot light knob and holding a match or lighter near the opening until the flame is lit.
How do you clean a pilot light sensor?
Cleaning a pilot light sensor is a relatively easy process.
First, you will need to turn off the appliance and disconnect its power source. Then, locate the pilot light sensor, either at the back of the appliance or on the side.
Once you have located the pilot light sensor, use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean it. It is important to not use too much to avoid damaging the sensor. Use a small amount of soapy water to remove any dirt, grime, or debris.
Once the pilot light sensor has been cleaned, it’s important to allow it to dry completely before attempting to attach it back. This is important to avoid any electrical shock or damage. After the pilot light sensor has dried completely, connect it back in place and turn the power back on.
Once the appliance is turned back on, the pilot light should now be functioning properly. Be sure to regularly check the pilot light sensor and clean it as necessary.
How long do you have to hold the pilot light on a gas water heater?
It is recommended that you hold the pilot light on a gas water heater for around 10 to 15 seconds. This will ensure that the gas is properly ignited. To ignite the pilot light you will need to turn the knob to the “on” position and press the igniter button.
Hold the button down until you see a steady flow of gas and then release it. You may need to repeat this process multiple times to maintain a stable flame. If the flame continues to go out, there may be other issues such as clogged pipelines or poor aeration.
In such a case, it is best to contact a professional for assistance.
Should the pilot light be touching the thermocouple?
No, the pilot light should not be touching the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a device that generates a small electric current when heated by the pilot light flame. If the two are too close together, the thermocouple may become overheated and unable to detect the flame, in turn turning off the flow of gas.
Therefore, it should be kept at a safe distance from the pilot light flame and should not touch it.
Can a pilot light get clogged?
Yes, a pilot light can get clogged. This happens when the nozzle gets debris or dust blocking the flow of fuel, or when the pilot orifice is partially or completely blocked with dirt. This can be a common issue if the unit or fuel line has not been serviced or cleaned in a long time, particularly with older systems.
A clogged pilot light can cause a number of issues, including preventing the gas from flowing, inefficiency, and a risk of a gas leak or other safety concerns, such as a fire hazard. If you notice problems with your pilot light, it is best to contact a professional to help diagnose and fix the issue.
Can a pilot light cause an explosion?
In short, the answer is yes. A pilot light can cause an explosion if the gas pressure in the furnace malfunctions or the furnace is not properly ventilated. Even when functioning properly, the heat of the small flame can cause the gas pressure to increase beyond the rated capacity of the equipment.
This puts the system at risk for explosion when the combustible gas reaches into the atmosphere. In addition, an accumulation of unburned gas in the area due to improperly vented gas or an igniting spark can create an internal spark, potentially resulting in an explosion.
For this reason, it is essential to check the gas pressure range on the furnace regularly and repair any ventilation issues in order to reduce the risk of an explosion. Additionally, regular maintenance of the pilot light should be done to ensure that it is functioning properly and that any blockages in the vents or chimneys from debris accumulation are addressed.
How do I stop my pilot light from blowing out?
If your pilot light keeps blowing out, there are several steps you can take to help prevent it.
1. Clean the pilot light. Dust and dirt can clog the pilot light and keep it from igniting properly. Clean around the outside of the pilot light with a rag and check the condition of the thermocouple, which helps detect when the pilot light is lit.
2. Make sure the pilot light is lit correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure the pilot light is lit properly. This usually involves adjusting the flame and setting the pilot light dial to the “on” position.
3. Adjust the air pressure. Too much air pressure can cause the pilot light to blow out. Adjust the air pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions and keep it set at a steady level.
4. Check the air filters. Dirty air filters can reduce air flow, which could be the reason your pilot light keeps blowing out. Change the air filters regularly, and make sure the filters are the right size for your appliance.
5. Check the vent and exhaust pipe. Check the vent and exhaust pipe for any obstructions or blockages that could be preventing the pilot light from staying lit. If there are any blockages, clear them out.
If these measures are not successful, you may need to contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect your appliance and determine the source of the problem.
How do you stop the wind from blowing out the pilot on a gas fireplace?
The best way to stop the wind from blowing out the pilot on a gas fireplace is to make sure that the room is properly ventilated. This means that all the windows and doors should be closed when the fireplace is burning.
Additionally, installing a wind break around the fireplace, such as a brick wall, can also help to reduce the wind’s power. If these measures do not help, then you may need to install a flame guard cover.
This is a metallic cover that is designed to keep the wind from blowing out the pilot. Flame guard covers come in various sizes and can be purchased at most home improvement stores. Additionally, if you have a fireplace that is in an exposed location such as on a deck or patio, it is important to make sure the area is well sheltered to reduce the wind’s power.