Thermocouple

[scott goebel]

We cannot keep our pilot lit in the gas water heater. I was told this is a thermocouple. Can it be repaired on my own? If so, how?

[Nikki EdwardsParticipant]

: We cannot keep our pilot lit in the gas water heater. I was told this is a thermocouple. Can it be repaired on my own? If so, how?Certain jobs I have no problem directing the do it yourselfer to do BUT NEVER EVER with gas. To many people die each year thinking it is ok to play with gas. Suppose it is not the thermo couple and it is the actual gas controller? On a H/W heater you have one safety Relief and God knows when it was actually tested last. A thermo couple is a cheap part normally under $5.00 and installation time by a Licensed Master Plumber/Gas fitter should take less than an hour. Most contractors set a min time of 1 hr. Call a licensed guy and watch how he/she does it. See if the bother to check the flue draft checking for spillage. See if they actually test the Relief valve operation. Let them check the main flane for proper combustion. Watch the professional check the color of the flame and to make sure the burners are soot free and burning clean. No matter what a professional charges it is still worth the peace of mind knowing your family are not being put at risk trying to save no more than $125+ – Changing a thermo couple is nothing BUT the proper inspection of this potental bomb is everything. Checking the relief valve operation, Flue ( updraft) checking for spillage trying to figure out WHY the thermo couple died is also part of being a professional. Placing it in the proper location of the flame is also critical Never think plumbing is just a trade it isnt it is a profession. For example I went through a 5 year aprenticeship 10,000 hours just to be a journeymen (mchanic) and before I was even allowed to take my masters tests I had to have 5 more ears working in the field. My 1st test was for codes and theory and the 2nd 41/2 hour practical test.A Master knows more than just replacing a washer. Keep your family safe hire a professional.Sylvan

[Nikki EdwardsParticipant]

Just to let others know, in my area, Southwest Gas provides free service to gas water heaters they can check all the ins and outs and tell you what is wrong with it, I spent alot of money on a professional who still could not get it to work, It took southwest coming out and fixing it, at no charge! Thanks for your advice though, I just wanted others to know, I have been a homeowner for five years and never knew that.: We cannot keep our pilot lit in the gas water heater. I was told this is a thermocouple. Can it be repaired on my own? If so, how?

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