pilot light for gas water heater

[MasterPlumbersKeymaster]

We installed a new Rheem gas water heater in Feb.2000 in the attic of our one story house. The pilot light goes off almost every day. The company sent us a new gas valve which a plumber installed but the pilot light still goes out almost every day. What could cause this problem and how can it be corrected? Thank you!

[SylvanLMPParticipant]

Have the “LICENSED Master Plumber”

Check for spill back.

Have the LMP check the actual position of the thermo couple in relation to the flame tube

Have the LMP check the actual relative humidity in the area as too much moisture building on the tank will actually put out a flame?

Have the LMP (not some franchise “tech”) also measure the actual “Free air” for combustion?

What could be happening is lack of oxygen during the heating cycle could smother the flame including the pilot light?

Have the Licensed master Plumber Check the actual flue cap and install a “Swiss cap” where down drafts cannot be a problem as opposed to the CHEAP crap caps sold in most hardware stores.
Check the actual flue piping for pitch and length and size and try to limit the amount of bends

Try a smoke test to make sure your getting the proper up draft.

Since your tank is in the ATTIC where did your Installing PLUMBER pipe the piping from your Temperature / pressure relief valve?

What Provisions did your installing PLUMBER allow to prevent this tank from being siphoned out and THUS having the very real potential of EXPLODING.

What code did this installing plumber follow about placing this heater on an attic floor? Did he/she allow for the possibility of this tank rupturing and letting scalding water cascade down the ceilings below?

Of COURSE the installer did install this on a fire proof base away from walls etc.

The flue is a double wall type correct so you do not burn your home down setting the roofing materials on fire.

Knowing that hot water naturally rises the contractor did make allowances for this as NOW your using a down feed H/W system?

Is your reurn being pumped up or down or are you relying on the natural process of heat rising?

[Art_xyzParticipant]

I believe the best way to fix your W/H is to tell your plumber to either fix it or replace it. I believe any reputable plumber will stand behind his work.

[Author]

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