Are water heater thermocouples interchangeable?
The length and the thread type are the two concerns when purchasing one. A thermocouple or flame sensor is a device used to control gas flow in gas water heaters. Commercial thermocouples are inexpensive, interchangeable, are supplied with standard connectors, and can measure a wide range of temperatures.
Can a gas water heater be replaced without a thermocouple?
Unfortunately, you will most likely have to wait for shipment of the thermocouple, which may take several days. If you are like most people and you do not want to live without hot water for several days, you may decide to replace the part without going through the warranty claim process.
How does the thermocouple work on a gas heater?
The thermocouple generates a small amount of electrical current when it has been heated by the flame. This small amount of electric current keeps the pilot gas valve open. If the pilot light goes out, the electrical current stops and the gas valve closes.
When does the pilot go out on a gas water heater?
The pilot in my gas water heater (Aquamax 205) has been going out sporadically over the last 2 weeks. Yesterday, I replaced the thermocouple with a universal thermocouple and cleaned out the dust and soot from the burner area.
What causes a gas water heater to shut off?
Thermocouple failure is a common problem with residential gas water heaters. The thermocouple is a thermoelectric device that shuts off the gas supply to the water heater if the pilot light goes out.
How do you replace a water heater thermocouple?
Then detach the thermocouple from the burner and take it with you to the home center or hardware store to ensure you buy the right replacement. First, shut off the gas valve on the water heater and the gas valve on the gas line near the heater. Then unfasten the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve.
Can a Hunker get compensation for a thermocouple?
Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. If you have a gas water heater, gas wall heater or any other appliance with a gas burner that needs to cycle on and off, there’s a thermocouple in your life.
What happens when the thermocouple goes out on a gas heater?
The thermocouple generates a small amount of electrical current when it has been heated by the flame. This small amount of electric current keeps the pilot gas valve open. If the pilot light goes out, the electrical current stops and the gas valve closes. Simply put; no flame, no gas flow.
How does a thermocouple keep the pilot lit?
The job of the thermocouple is to keep the pilot lit. It does this by sending a tiny electric current to a sensor on the gas valve signaling the valve to stay open.
