Why does my pilot light keep going out after replacing thermocouple?

If your water heater pilot won’t stay lit even after replacing the thermocouple, you most likely have a faulty gas control valve. It is a sign that the valve is failing to open and allow gas to flow to the pilot. You could also be dealing with a tripped or faulty thermal switch.

When I release the pilot button the flame goes out?





If you’re able to light the pilot light, but it goes out when you release the control knob, the thermocouple probably needs replacing. The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off gas flow if it senses the pilot light is out, but when damaged it loses its regulatory ability.

Why does my pilot light keep going out on my propane water heater?

The most common reason that your pilot light on your water heater keeps going out is a damaged, bent or dirty thermocouple.

How do you fix a pilot light that won’t stay lit?

Check the Thermocouple

If your pilot light won’t stay alight, it might be the thermocouple. Sometimes dust buildup collects on the thermocouple and blocks the sensor. Try cleaning the thermocouple and then relighting the pilot light. If it continues to go out, the thermocouple might need to be replaced.

How do you reset a thermal switch?





Press the small reset button in the center of the thermal switch. If it’s tripped, you may be able to hear it click. Even if you do not hear the thermal switch click, try lighting the pilot using the instructions on the water heater’s label. If the Status Light now begins to flash, the thermal switch probably tripped.

Why does my thermocouple keep going out?

It’s Dirty

Under constant exposure to a hot flame, a thermocouple wears down over time. Even a slight residue can make the thermocouple malfunction. The fix here is as easy as removing the thermocouple, cleaning it with a wire brush or something coarse (even an ordinary dollar bill works), and replacing.

How do you reset a pilot light?

How Can I Restart My Pilot Light?

  1. Step 1: Turn off your furnace. …
  2. Step 2: Locate your gas valve. …
  3. Step 3: Hold down the red button. …
  4. Step 4: Light the pilot light. …
  5. Step 5: Let go of the button. …
  6. Step 6: Turn your gas back on. …
  7. Step 7: Turn your furnace back on.


Is it safe to relight a pilot light?

If you smell gas or suspect you have a gas leak, turn off the furnace and leave your home as soon as possible. It is dangerous to relight your pilot light when there is natural gas in the air.

How do you relight a pilot light?

Turn the knob to “Pilot” and hold down the “Reset” button.



Using a long lighter, bring the flame close to the pilot opening. This should ignite the pilot light. Once the pilot is lit, you can release the reset button. The pilot should stay lit at this point.

What would cause a pilot light to keep going out?

A faulty, misaligned, dirty, or damaged thermocouple is often the culprit behind your pilot light going out. The thermocouple is an automatic safety shutoff device that prevents the gas valve from opening if the pilot light is out.

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. Cleaning a thermocouple is not a fix for an issue, such as inaccurate readings.

What would cause a pilot light to go out?

Some of the possible serious reasons for pilot lights to go out include loose or broken gas valves, thermocouples or heat exchangers, faulty venting, low gas pressure, or high winds. If you believe there is a serious problem, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.