What is a thermal coupling in a water heater?
The thermocouple is a thermoelectric device that shuts off the gas supply to the water heater if the pilot light goes out. If the pilot light goes out, the electrical current stops and the gas valve closes. Simply put; no flame, no gas flow. Not all gas water heaters have a thermocouple.
Who can replace a thermocouple?
Calling a professional plumber to install a new thermocouple should only be up to $150. If you do the work yourself, you will only pay the price of the part which is about $20. The No. 1 cause of pilot lights that won’t stay lit is a worn-out thermocouple.
What does the thermocouple do on a gas water heater?
The thermocouple is a special sensing tube on gas water heaters that senses when the pilot light has flame, and shuts off the gas to the unit when the pilot has been extinguished. The thermocouple and pilot light tubes both extend from the gas control valve to the burning compartment.
Can a universal thermocouple be used on a gas burner?
Yesterday, I replaced the thermocouple with a universal thermocouple and cleaned out the dust and soot from the burner area. After installation, I also did the detergent test to make sure the gas connections are secure and not leaking. I lighted the pilot and it appeared to work fine.
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.
How is the thermocouple connected to the pilot tube?
In most cases, no tools are required to do this. The thermocouple may be connected to the pilot tube with clips that hold it in the correct position. If the thermocouple does not slide out of the pilot assembly easily, disengage the clips and and try again.
How do you remove the thermocouple from a water heater?
Detach the thermocouple from the whole. Use wrenches or screwdrivers (depending on which you need) to loosen the nuts and screws on both ends that connect the thermocouple to the water heater. Slide the thermocouple out of position. This will disconnect it on both ends. Use the old thermocouple to purchase a new one.
Where can you find a thermocouple in a gas heater?
Thermocouples are used in a wide variety of commercial and industrial applications because it has the advantage of not needing external power or excitation over other forms of temperature measurement. A thermocouple can be found in diesel engines, gas turbines, kilns, gas water heater, temperature sensor in thermostats, etc.
How do you shut off a water heater?
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.
How many screws do you need to replace the thermocouple?
You can have 2 or 4 screws and they can have a Phillips or an Allen head. When you are replacing the thermocouple, you may have to cut a slit in the door gasket to change out the thermocouple. When you push it back into the door, it will reseal. Be careful when removing and reinstalling the nuts to the thermocouple, burner tube and pilot tube.
