Cleaning Gas Water Heater Thermocouple

You really don t want hot water spilling everywhere causing property damage.

Cleaning gas water heater thermocouple.

Disconnect any wires from the valve and unthread the nut to release the thermocouple if required by your model. Before cleaning the thermocouple make sure that you shut off the power supply so that you do not get hurt while cleaning the thermocouple. Use my amazon link to shop. Be aware you may need to detach a pilot supply tube as well.

Of course always ensure that there is no water in the actual tank before you do this if you even have a tank. Place these safely on the ground. A gas water heater in boise baton rouge buffalo or boston uses a thermocouple that includes a probe attached to a copper tube that screws into a port on the gas valve. This may prevent power from reaching the pilot lights.

Your water should heat up within a little while. If the thermocouple is working you should be able to measure 30 to 40 millivolts of voltage at the connection end of the tube when the pilot flame is on. Wipe with a lint free cloth. Once you re sure the thermocouple is clean fix it back to the unit.

Now the ends of thermocouple may be corroded. This is always the first step when working on a water heater. Cut the fuel supply to the water heater. If applicable detach the vapor sensor from the tank base.

Using a wrench or similar tool unscrew each of the leads going into the tankless water heater. The thermocouple on a gas fireplace may eventually become clogged with dirt and soot which can reduce the effectiveness of the thermocouple and may eventually prevent the fireplace from lighting as expected. Rub the ends of this piece with an emery cloth sandpaper. If you ever see residue on the ends of it remove it with an emery cloth.

Cleaning the thermocouple is a pretty simple process but should only be done when the fireplace is turned off and is completely cool. Unthread the nut to detach the burner supply tube from the gas or control valve. Turn on the water heater. Water heater thermocouple cleaning in 5 steps shut the gas inlet valve safety first.

After scrubbing further clean the thermocouple of the water heater with a microfiber cloth to remove excess particles. Keep the new thermocouple clean so that it continues working properly. Completing these simple steps will prevent problems and will lengthen the life of your thermocouple. Turn the power on to the hot water heater.