Thermocouples are designed to detect a pilot light’s loss of heat and close the gas valve to prevent a gas leak. Replacing a thermocouple is a relatively easy fix that can take less than two hours.
Are thermocouples Universal for water heaters?
Universal thermocouples come in lengths from 15 to 36 inches. An 18 or 24 inch will suffice for all residential water heaters using universal kits. Almost all older waters heaters and many of the newer style units with a sealed burner compartment and a viewing window will use this thermocouple.
How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my water heater?
If the pilot lights but the flame goes out as soon as you release the button after holding it for 60 seconds, then the thermocouple is bad. It’s possible to replace the thermocouple without removing the burner assembly, and many repair people do this.
How much does it cost to replace thermocouple?
It costs $150 to $250 to replace a thermocouple. It checks to make sure the pilot light is on. It will shut the gas off if it’s not.
Can you clean a thermocouple?
Yes, you can clean a thermocouple, but the task must be done with a light touch. Remove the thermocouple from the process assembly, using a steel wool or emery cloth, lightly clean the tip removing any build up.
What is a thermocouple and what does it do?
Thermocouples are sensors used to measure temperature. It is a device used inside a gas furnace in Kansas, to assist the pilot light in keeping your furnace running and safe. It works rather like a fail-safe to keep unburned gas from accumulating and burning, exploding or causing another type of health risk.
What does FVIR mean?
What does FVIR mean? Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant (FVIR) water heaters incorporate design features that make them resistant to igniting flammable vapors such as gasoline, cleaning solvents, and paint thinner outside of the water heater.
Are all thermocouples compatible?
Commercial thermocouples are interchangeable, economical, and supplied with standard connectors. Unlike most other temperature measurement devices, external form of excitation is not required for thermocouples because they are self-powered.
Can I use any thermocouple?
Watch out: thermopiles and thermocouples are not interchangeable. When replacing a temperature sensing device like a thermocouple or thermopile, you should be sure to purchase the proper part.
Do all gas water heaters have thermocouples?
Not all gas water heaters have a thermocouple. Some newer models have an advanced temperature control system. Essentially, it is a microprocessor that constantly monitors and controls burner operation and maintains consistent and accurate water temperature levels. The flashing LED indicates that the pilot is on.
What are the symptoms of a bad thermocouple?
If you can’t get the flame to light at all, and you’re sure the gas is on, there’s probably an obstruction in the pilot tube. If the flame lights and goes out when you release the gas control knob after holding it in for the recommended 20 to 30 seconds, that’s the sign of a thermocouple malfunction.
Will a pilot light stay lit with a bad thermocouple?
A thermocouple senses the heat of the pilot and allows gas to flow to the burner. A bad thermocouple will shut off gas to both the pilot and the burner so the pilot light won’t stay lit.
What happens when thermocouple goes bad?
Normally when the thermocouple malfunctions or isn’t working, it simply shuts off the gas to your heater. This is important, particularly if the pilot light is out, because it prevents harmful gas from leaking into your home.
