Why does my hot water heater pilot go out?
If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple senses the drop in temperature and signals for the gas valve to close. If you have a faulty thermocouple is the most common reason that your pilot light is malfunctioning. Over time your water heater will collect dirt, dust and other kinds of debris.
How does the pilot light on a water heater work?
Your water heater pilot light works in concert with other parts. When your thermocouple detects an unlit pilot, it automatically shuts off the gas to your water heater as a safety precaution.
What happens when there is no pilot light on a gas heater?
If there is no pilot light or is blown out, the tip of the thermocouple cools off and stops generating electricity so the gas valve closes and the unit shuts off. Every gas appliance is equipped with similar safety devices, prevent gas leaking inside the house.
Why is my gas water heater pilot light yellow?
Also, some homeowners reported that while they were cleaning the unit, a small orifice cap found on top of the pilot tube fell out making the pilot light unstable, yellow and very high. If the gas pressure is too low, the flame can become too small. Check with the utility company about this problem.
Is it dangerous if the pilot light goes out on the water?
This is how natural gas smells, and once you notice it, you must turn off the gas to the heater. Before taking such a dangerous matter into your own hands, try contacting the gas company, and wait for their instructions.
How does the pilot light work on a water heater?
The water heater uses the piezo igniter to light the main gas burner, and when it is pressed down, it releases the electric spark. The spark gap is factory set (0.125″) and should be maintained. When troubleshooting lighting problems, it is recommended to test it first. Turn the gas OFF to the water heater and press the piezo igniter.
Also, some homeowners reported that while they were cleaning the unit, a small orifice cap found on top of the pilot tube fell out making the pilot light unstable, yellow and very high. If the gas pressure is too low, the flame can become too small. Check with the utility company about this problem.
If there is no pilot light or is blown out, the tip of the thermocouple cools off and stops generating electricity so the gas valve closes and the unit shuts off. Every gas appliance is equipped with similar safety devices, prevent gas leaking inside the house.
Why does my pilot light keep going out?
If your pilot doesn’t re-light, won’t stay lit or keeps going out after a short time, you most likely have an issue with the hot water heater thermocouple. This can happen with age. This can happen with age.
