Why does my pilot light on my water heater keep going out?
Thermocouple Issues
If it senses that your water heater pilot light keeps going out, the thermocouple will shift off the gas supply to the heater. Over time, thermocouples can malfunction, accumulate dust buildup, or the device can get bent away from the pilot light’s flame.
What causes 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.
How do you fix a pilot light that keeps going out?
We recommend replacing your thermocouple if you notice physical damage or if the pilot light keeps going out. Not only can these issues be frustrating and time-consuming, but they could also be a safety risk. If your pilot light just won’t stay on, try replacing your thermocouple.
Does gas still flow when pilot light goes out?
If your pilot light repeatedly goes out, this is a likely culprit. If this flame sensor should fail, gas will continue to flow even after the pilot light has been extinguished, causing a safety hazard and requiring immediate repair.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?
1 cause of pilot lights that won’t stay lit is a worn-out thermocouple. It’s easy to replace and a new one costs $5 to $10. Rather than trying to unfasten the thermocouple inside the water heater’s burning chamber, it’s easier to remove the whole burner and thermocouple assembly.
What makes a hot water heater go out?
A dirty thermocouple is the most common cause of malfunctioning water heater pilot light. Because the tip of the thermocouple is exposed to a direct flame, carbon can build up and cause the flame to malfunction or go out.
Is water heater pilot always on?
Gas and propane fueled water heaters use a small flame to ignite the burner. This small flame is called a pilot light and it stays lit at all times. When the water heater needs to heat the water within the tank, it ignites the gas burner with the help of the pilot light. Think of the pilot light like a match.
