1. Welcome! Please take a few seconds to create your free account to post threads, make some friends, remove a few ads while surfing and much more. ClutchFans has been bringing fans together to talk Houston Sports since 1996. Join us!

Water Heater Pilot trouble

Discussion in 'BBS Hangout' started by tim562, Feb 25, 2006.

  1. tim562

    tim562 Member

    Joined:
    Feb 16, 2004
    Messages:
    4,499
    Likes Received:
    199
    Guys, I am extremely frustrated. I have been trying to keep my water heater lit, but the flame keeps going out. I light the pilot, hold down the button for a minute like it says, then release it, and the flame goes out. I have done this like 5x. What gives, and any suggestions?
     
  2. Behad

    Behad Member

    Joined:
    Feb 20, 1999
    Messages:
    12,358
    Likes Received:
    193
    The most common problem is a bad thermocouple, which is the sensor that tells the valve there is a flame and to stay open. If the thermocouple does not see a flame (or is bad) it will shbut off the gas. Beyond that, there is a host of other items it could be.
     
  3. tim562

    tim562 Member

    Joined:
    Feb 16, 2004
    Messages:
    4,499
    Likes Received:
    199
    Could I possibly fix this, or should I call a Pro?
     
  4. swilkins

    swilkins Member

    Joined:
    Mar 5, 2003
    Messages:
    7,115
    Likes Received:
    11
    I think you hit the nail on the head.
     
  5. pradaxpimp

    pradaxpimp Member

    Joined:
    Aug 3, 2002
    Messages:
    5,025
    Likes Received:
    71
    I'm no bob vila, so....imma have to agree with Behad.
     
  6. ima_drummer2k

    ima_drummer2k Member

    Joined:
    Oct 18, 2002
    Messages:
    36,502
    Likes Received:
    9,609
    Well, I don't have to, but I do.

    I hear commercials on 610 about a water heater that uses heated coils instead of a tank. Sounds like a great idea, but it also sounds expensive. But it would seem to save a lot of money in the long run.
     
  7. Behad

    Behad Member

    Joined:
    Feb 20, 1999
    Messages:
    12,358
    Likes Received:
    193
    If you feel comfortable that the gas is shut off, it's not too hard. But you gotta be sure the gas is closed completely, because the thermocouple is wired in, and even though the electricity should be shut off as well, it's still possible to have a small spark.

    It's not hard, but be sure you know what you are doing.
     

Share This Page