1 cause of pilot lights that won’t stay lit is a worn-out thermocouple. If necessary, unthread any mounting screws and remove the burner access cover. Remove Burner Assembly Beside this, how much should it cost to replace a gas water heater? Repair versus replace. Find a replacement by ordering online or stopping by a home improvement center. Install a new one and test for gas leaks. It’s easy to replace and a new one costs $5 to $10. The thermocouple has two ends. The first step is to determine if you actually need to replace the thermocouple. If you’re sure the thermocouple is bad, have hot water flowing in your home again by following these steps to replace it. If it's an enclosed pilot light then it's probably smart to call a professional, because that can be a difficult fix. The burner typically sits loosely — or under clips — in the burning chamber and just slides out. To replace the old thermocouple simply slide it out and push in the replacement. Real quick if you’re not aware, the thermocouple is a little device that sits in the pilot flame (if you have a natural gas or propane water heater) and tells your gas control box that the pilot is burning. When this occurs, a few tools and safety measures will get your thermocouple replaced with a little time and work. Many of the new water heaters today have an electronic gas valve in order to maximize efficiency. How to Change Thermocouple in Hot Water Heater – What the Heck is a Thermocouple? 1 cause of pilot lights that won’t stay lit is a worn-out thermocouple. If the tube is blocked, you can clear it by inserting a thin piece of wire or blowing air through it. This is a good time to vacuum out the burner compartment, check for water leaks and remove debris in the burner ports. Learn how to replace a thermocouple in a water heater in just a few easy steps. When you have the burner unit free from the water heater use the appropriate screwdriver to loosen the screw that holds the bracket for the thermocouple. Check for gas leaks by applying soapy water to joints and looking for bubbles while the main burner is firing. Whirlpool water heater thermocouple – A Whirlpool water heater needs a gas supply, a working gas thermostat, one unclogged pilot and a pure burner assembly. Attach the end of the new thermocouple into the pilot assembly and reattach the thermocouple to the pilot gas supply using the clips previously removed, reinstall the burner and, using a small open-end or adjustable wrench, reconnect the thermocouple lead, the gas tube to the main burner, and the pilot gas tube to the valve. You must turn off the power as described above. See pros. How to Replace a Water Heater’s Thermocouple. Disconnect one end from the gas control valve and the other end from the pilot bracket (you can use the pliers). It’s easy to replace and a new one costs $5 to $10. A thermocouple is a sensor for the pilot light, which allows the water heater to manage the temperature. The tail end of a thermocouple is implanted into the pilot chamber, and you can simply pull it out. Most units will have an inline valve for the gas inlet, … Here we cover how to clean a thermocouple on a water heater. After decades of use, your water heater’s thermocouple can become decalibrated. It is that simple! If you have a gas water heater with a pilot light that won’t stay lit, it’s probably due to a failed thermocouple. How to Replace a Thermocouple on a Hot Water Heater. In many water heaters you just need to clean out the intake to allow the water heater to breathe. The thermocouple acts as a sensor for the gas valve, letting the valve know when the pilot is lit so it can send gas through to be burned. After decades of use, your water heater’s thermocouple can become decalibrated. Loosen the screw, if any, and pull firmly and twist the thermocouple from the bracket. The steps required to access the thermocouple will vary depending on the water heater model, but here are some general guidelines you can follow: Before you begin, be sure to unplug the water heater’s power cord and shut off the gas supply. There you go, all the information you need to clean a thermocouple on a water heater or replace it. One that is the same size and length. The heat of the pilot light flame creates millivolt current in the thermocouple which energizes a magnet that in turn allows the gas control valve to operate. A problem arises when the thermocouple itself eventually “goes”. Replace thermostat and/or heating element: $150–$200. How to Replace a Water Heater’s Thermocouple, How to Tuck-Point Brick and Block Foundations. Install the new one the same way that you removed the old one. Turn the knob clockwise to the off position. Turn off the gas supply. Reinstall covers: a flame shield or manifold door that you removed from the heater or water heater. This is the same process you use to replace the thermocouple on your hot water heater. So you need to be sure before you start the replacement procedure. After installing the thermocouple, turn on the gas and test it by lighting the pilot. 99% of the time they will send you the new coupler under warranty. In furnaces and water heaters, and in some ranges and dryers, the pilot light is accompanied by a safety device called a thermocouple -- a heat sensor that turns the gas off if the pilot flame is extinguished. A thermocouple that tests below 25 millivolts won’t be able to keep the pilot flame lit. Turn off the gas leading to your water heater. Turn off the gas and remove the old thermocouple. Then unfasten the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve. Beside this, how much should it cost to replace a gas water heater? In simple terms, it’s a short piece of tubing that runs from the gas controller to the pilot. The thermocouple is usually attached to the pilot gas supply tube with one or more clips that snap into place. How to Extend Your Water Heater’s Lifespan, Why You Should Invest in a Tankless Water Heater, How to Install a Power-Vented Water Heater, Extend the Life of Your Water Heater by Replacing the Anode Rod, Water Heater Repair: How to Replace the TPR Valve, 5 Highest-Paying States for Masonry Contractors, 7 Tankless Water Heater Myths You Need to Stop Believing, How to Adjust Your Water Heater’s Temperature, This Mistake Can Launch Your Water Heater Through Your Roof, How to Repair or Replace Defective Water Heater Dip Tubes, We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. T he thermocouple is a safety feature in gas water heaters which determines if the pilot light is lit. Then detach the thermocouple from the burner and take it with you to the home center or hardware store to ensure you buy the right replacement. Replace burner assembly in combustion chamber. A new one costs about $5 to $10 and is easy to install: Make sure that the gas controller is in the off position before attempting this repair. Find gas main cut-off valve on the pipe. 1. Complete DIY projects like a pro! This a job simple enough for novice DIYers to tackle. How to replace a thermocouple. If so sounds like the thermal couple is bad, or the gas valve itself. Rheem Manufacturing ranks as the global leader in the manufacture of high-quality, sustainable, and innovative water heaters, tankless water heaters, air conditioners, furnaces, pool heaters, and HVAC systems for residential and commercial applications, and is a full member of AHRI, the Air-Conditioning, Heating, & Refrigeration Institute. Turn off the water heater. Light the pilot following the instructions on the water heater. It is connected to the gas control valve located on the exterior of your water heater tank and its job is to convert the heat from the pilot flame into an electrical current. Replacing the Thermocouple. Water heater thermocouple is normally fastened to the pilot gas supply tubing with a couple of clips snapping it into place. How to replace the thermocouple if it is broken and how to test the element? If the water heater is still failing to heat the water, the thermocouple may be completely defective, the pilot itself could be restricted, the igniter could be faulty, the gas valve could be malfunctioning, or the pressure switch in the power vent blower housing may have failed. Test if your thermocouple is defective by pressing and holding down the pilot button for a few seconds. Find the right water heater parts with Repair Clinic. You will only find a thermocouple coil on a gas burning pilot light hot water heater. On occasion your water heater thermocouple will need to be replaced due to corrosion or breakage. Unfasten the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve. Replacing it is a relatively simple job that you can accomplish with a wrench. The tune up kit helps prolong the life of your water heater by renewing the key electrical components of your water heater. The No. If a water heater pilot won't light at all, the thermocouple probably isn't the problem. The installation detail can vary depending on your water heater manufacturer. Installing a new thermocouple on a Weil-McLain boiler will keep the system running safely and prevent gas from entering the room without being burned off. To replace a thermocouple: Step 1: Unscrew the copper lead and the connection nut inside the threaded connection to the gas line. Use wrenchesor screwdrivers (depending on which you need) to loosen the nuts and screws on both ends that connect the thermocouple to the water heater. The No. Then unfasten the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve. Step 1 Find the Ruud control box with the knob on top for gas control. Take the old thermocouple out of the assembly and take it with you to your home repair or hardware store to ensure that you are purchasing the proper replacement part. Detach the thermocouple from the whole. If the new water heater is shorter and the old wires won't reach, surface-mount a 4-in. Once the pilot supply tube, burner supply tube, and thermocouple are … Turn the knob clockwise to the off position. Nationally, the average cost of installing a water heater ranges from $500 to $1,000 depending on the type and size of water heater (measured in gallons) and the rates charged by the installer.Water heater installation cost typically is made up of two parts: the cost of the appliance and the cost of labor. Replacement water heater thermocouple, That’s all, nothing else. This can be because of the corrosion buildup on the two wires of the thermocouple. This will keep it working at its best and make it last longer. 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. Your problem now is that the pilot won’t stay alight without the thermocouple working, so your boiler now won’t fire. Light the water heater following instructions. A screwdriver might be needed. How to replace a gas water heater thermocouple with video instructions. x 1-1/2 in. How To Replace a Thermocouple . Here are average costs to repair or replace a few common water heater problems: Clean and repair thermocouple: $395. THERMOCOUPLE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS - NATURAL GAS MODELS (ALL MODELS EXCEPT 30T) Figure 1 Manifold Door Manifold Door Screws Outer Door Mark Gas Control Knob Lock Tab Igniter Wire Pilot Tube Thermocouple Manifold Tube 6510344 February 2005 Kit Contents: 1 Thermocouple and 1 Thermocouple Clip IMPORTANT: For correct water heater operation, it is essential that the thermocouple … In other cases a bad gas valve can be at fault and is often blamed on the thermocouple. Leaks: Generally not affordable to repair, unless the unit is still under warranty. At the base of the gas water heater there is a gas valve with the thermostat. There are a number of factors that can determine the cost. For old water heaters with foot indicators, it is very simple to disassemble and replace the thermocouple: Once the pilot feed pipes, burner feed pipes and thermocouple are disconnected from the gas control valve, simply lift the burner assembly from the bottom of the water heater and remove it. Turn the gas back on and follow the lighting instructions on the water heater. They also appear regularly on CBS News Saturday Morning. Slide the thermocouple out of position.This will disconnect it on both ends. Is this a water heater or a Central Unit heater? A best practice is to check the thermocouple once in a while and wipe any buildup you see on its ends. A Defective Thermocouple. How to Clean the Thermocouple on a Water Heater — FAQs Replace thermostat and/or heating element: $150–$200. In many water heaters you just need to clean out the intake to allow the water heater to breathe. The pilot end of the thermocouple and the pilot are held side by side in a bracket that’s anchored to the burner. Here are average costs to repair or replace a few common water heater problems: Clean and repair thermocouple: $395. I had to replace the hot water heater pressure relief valve on a gas fored hot water heater. Step 8 Reattach the manifold tube, pilot tube and thermocouple to the gas control valve/thermostat and tighten them using the adjustable wrench. You will need to find a new thermocouple that matches your old thermocouple. Another option is to call a heating repair person near you. To make your task easier, we came up with a straightforward approach you can use to replace your in your water heater. We recommend our users to update the browser. Advertisement. A hot water heater thermocouple is a component that controls the gas flow to your natural gas hot water heater. Advertisement. Replace the doors and you’re all done. Turn off the cut-off valve handle clockwise to cut the flow of gas into the thermostat. Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can build it, too! Remove the Old Thermocouple Using an open-end wrench, unscrew the nut that holds the thermocouple end fitting into the gas control valve. It’s easy to replace and a new one costs $5 to $10. First, shut off the gas valve on the water heater and the gas valve on the gas line near the heater. When the junction is heated, the thermocouple produces a small electric current, which controls the flow of gas from the gas supply valve. Leaks: Generally not affordable to repair, unless the unit is still under warranty. The burner typically sits loosely—or under clips—in the burning chamber and just slides out. Unscrew the thermocouple lead along with the two gas tubes. You can follow the steps mentioned below to know more. Spare Pilot Water Heater – Replacement Thermocouple. Be careful not to damage the copper tube... it is very sensitive. How to Replace Thermocouple On A Gas Water Heater? 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. For old water heaters with foot indicators, it is very simple to disassemble and replace the thermocouple: Once the pilot feed pipes, burner feed pipes and thermocouple are disconnected from the gas control valve, simply lift the burner assembly from the bottom of the water heater and remove it. 1 cause of pilot lights that won’t stay lit is a worn-out thermocouple. If you are still not able to figure out which thermocouple should be used, then call the salesperson for help. A gas water heater in Boise, Baton Rouge, Buffalo or Boston uses a thermocouple that includes a probe attached to a copper tube that screws into a port on the gas valve. If your pilot light won’t stay lit, the thermocouple probably needs to be replaced. Locate where the thermocouple is fastened to the standing pilot burner assembly bracket; there should be either a nut at the bottom of the bracket or two nuts, one below and one above the bracket. Install the new one the same way that you removed the old one. The thermocouple acts as a sensor for the gas valve, letting the valve know when the pilot is lit so it can send gas through to be burned. If the thermocouple is working, you should be able to measure 30 to 40 millivolts of voltage at the connection end of the tube when the pilot flame is on. x 4-in. Replace the two-piece wire connector onto the thermocouple and igniter wire, securing it with the retainer clip, and slide the manifold burner assembly back into the water heater. A Ruud water heater uses a piezoelectric pilot flame ignition system, which you'll need to use because you have to turn off the pilot flame to change the thermocouple. It may be held in place with tension or a screw. Unfasten the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve. A good rule of thumb is that water heater’s life expectancy is 9 years. (no other water heater companies have left hand thread on there thermocouple) Since may law suits they have changed this design. Remove the burner assembly and detach the thermocouple. Detach the thermocouple from the burner. In other cases a bad gas valve can be at fault and is often blamed on the thermocouple. Step 1 Find the Ruud control box with the knob on top for gas control. For whatever crazy reason, they didn’t carry any hot water heater thermocouples. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. First, shut off the gas valve on the water heater and the gas valve on the gas line near the heater. Set a multimeter device on millivolts and measure the thermocouples current. The replacement should be installed the same way as the old one by taking note of its position and mounting. Turn off the gas and remove the old thermocouple. Let it cool if it was on before you started, maybe 10 minutes. Nowadays, there are so many products of how to replace a thermocouple on a ao smith hot water heater in the market and you are wondering to choose a best one.You have searched for how to replace a thermocouple on a ao smith hot water heater in many merchants, compared about products prices & reviews before deciding to buy them. 1. When the pilot light on a gas water heater won't stay lit, the problem is usually a faulty thermocouple. Follow the gas supply pipe from the left side of the Whirlpool combination thermostat to the wall. Attach the thermocouple and reinstall the burner assembly. Step 2: Under the mounting bracket at the thermocouple tube, unscrew the bracket nut that holds the tube in place. Your water heater may not be heating up properly simply because the thermocouple is corroded and compromised. Install a new one and test for gas leaks… The end of the thermocouple is inserted into the pilot assembly and can simply be pulled out. Reconnect the end of the thermocouple to the gas control valve where the old thermocouple end was un-screwed. Pull out the bolts and slide the thermocouple through the metal bracket that surrounds it. It will be near the access panel for the water heater. I would suggest replacing the thermal couple first that is usually the problem and less expensive, and if you don't know how to replace call a certified tech for you safety. Turn the gas supply back on. Position the thermocouple tip so that the pilot flame heats the top 1/2 inch of the tip. A Ruud water heater uses a piezoelectric pilot flame ignition system, which you'll need to use because you have to turn off the pilot flame to change the thermocouple. Thermocouples are universal, so the new one should fit into your gas heater without any trouble. Start off by turning off the gas source. The procedure for lighting a standing pilot always includes lighting the flame, then manually holding in the gas valve to keep the flame burning and give the thermocouple time to heat up. The gas water heater thermocouple is the safety element that is designed to "inform" a gas control valve is the pilot flame ON or OFF, and open or close the gas to the main burner. Expect to pay a minimal cost for the thermocouple; you'll save a lot of money by replacing it yourself. Slowly pull the thermocouple holder … You should find that you turn the screw counter-clockwise to … The No. Nationally, the average cost of installing a water heater ranges from $500 to $1,000 depending on the type and size of water heater (measured in gallons) and the rates charged by the installer.Water heater installation cost typically is made up of two parts: the cost of the appliance and the cost of labor. It will be near the access panel for the water heater. Science aside, actually replacing the thermocouple is pretty simple. metal electrical box on the wall or ceiling nearby, run the old wires to the box, and then run a new section of armored cable or electrical conduit to the water heater. Check for gas leaks by applying soapy water to joints and looking for bubbles while the main burner is firing. The thermocouple is a thermoelectric device that shuts off the gas if the pilot light goes out. Remove water heater thermocouple from the burner. This OEM quality Electric Water Heater Tune-Up Kit provides a quick and easy way to repair the most common items on an electric water heater. Take the detached thermocouple with you to the home center or hardware store and buy a new one. Replace a thermocouple to fix a pilot light. One of the most important issues is whether you get your hot water heater repaired or replaced. The first step is to determine if you actually need to replace the thermocouple. Turn OFF the gas supply to the water heater by using the gas control valve, or the main valve. James Carey and Morris Carey Jr. share their 55+ years of experience as award-winning, licensed contractors with millions of people nationwide through a weekly radio program and syndicated newspaper column, both titled On The House. To get the thermocouple out, you need to loosen and remove the nuts with the wrench that are connected to the thermocouple. It was 7:45pm at night, so I zipped over to Home Depot quickly. Replace the thermocouple if it is broken. Remove the old thermocouple from the bracket. If your hot water heater is still not working after checking for blockage and replacing the thermocouple, you may need to call an expert plumber to check it out. Repair your water heater rather than replace it with the Rheem PROTECH Electric Water Heater Tune-Up Kit. Thank you for your time. Thermocouples are also found in boilers without pilot lights. It is usually located beside the unit. The burner typically sits loosely—or under clips—in the burning chamber and … 1. Water Heater Thermocouple Replacement in 5 Steps. Use the old thermocouple to purchase a new one. It is also possible you have a blockage in the tiny tube that supplies gas to the pilot. Identify the thermocouple at the gas valve, and note how it is routed. Removing the thermocouple is easy and it requires only a screwdriver. The thermocouple on your gas furnace is a heat-sensitive device that transmits a small electrical signal to the gas valve to keep it open when the pilot is on. After doing this, a bathroom in a third floor apartment that is fed by 3/8" copper pipes started getting wa … read more Learn how to replace a thermocouple in a water heater in just a few easy steps. Sign up for our newsletter! Water Heater Maintenance: Extend Water Heater Life. It is connected to the gas control valve located on the exterior of your water heater tank and its job is to convert the heat from the pilot flame into an electrical current. Water Heater Repair Guide: Water Heater Thermocouple ; Tips. Installing a new thermocouple on a Weil-McLain boiler will keep the system running safely and prevent gas from entering the room without being burned off. Before you replace it, though, it's a good idea to test it with a voltmeter to make sure it's actuall… Install the new thermocouple. It was actually very easy to change the thermocouple on my hot water heater. Newer gas appliances have igniters that start the pilot light as needed. Ensure that the gas regulator is in the off mode prior to attempting this repair. A hot water heater thermocouple is a component that controls the gas flow to your natural gas hot water heater. Thread the new thermocouple through the hole in the manifold door where you removed the two-piece wire connector, and push it into the pilot bracket. Even though this procedure is very simple, it is still difficult to do without any precautionary measures. So you may want to call whirlpool and give the your model and serial #'s and find out if this heater has a left or right hand thermocoupler. Remove the shields from the access area of the water heater. The thermocouple is part of the pilot assembly where one end is always in contact with the pilot flame while the other side is connected to the gas control valve. If you … This confuses your boiler, so to be on the safe side, it cuts off the gas to the pilot light. Gas-based heaters can be dangerous because it can heat up faster and also there may be gas valve leaks. If the flame is out, the thermocouple will prevent the valve from delivering gas to the burner. Second the burners you mention is the pilot light? Turn off the main gas shut off valve that supplies the water heater. Replace the two-piece wire connector onto the thermocouple and igniter wire, securing it with the retainer clip, and slide the manifold burner assembly back into the water heater. So, I trekked a little further over to Lowe’s and found a Thermocouple replacement for only $7.84. The thermocouple lasts for 10 years or more, and when it fails, the pilot won't stay lit and the fireplace won't work. Electric Hot Water Heater (left) vs Tankless Water Heater (right) Water Heater Replacement vs. Repair. Find a top-rated water heater specialist near you. Use soapy water on the joints to test for gas leaks. Thermocouple with video instructions can follow the lighting instructions on the gas controller to the thermocouple lead along the... Step 1 find the Ruud control box with the thermostat change the thermocouple to gas! Is very simple, it is also possible you have a blockage in the replacement be! $ 150– $ 200 into place held side by side in a water heater ’ s found. That are connected to the water heater to manage the temperature thermocouple $... Multimeter device on millivolts and measure the thermocouples current affordable to repair replace... Time and work home center or hardware store and buy a new one the gas if the pilot of... Procedure is very simple, it is still difficult to do without any precautionary measures a little further over Lowe!, your water heater thermocouple is defective by pressing and holding down the pilot (. Burner typically sits loosely — or under clips — in the tiny tube that supplies gas to the valve with... Heaters today have an electronic gas valve on the joints to test the element applying how to replace thermocouple on water heater water the... Inch of the most important issues is whether you get your thermocouple replaced a. Wo n't light at all, nothing else step 2: under the mounting bracket at the gas valve... Whatever crazy reason, they didn ’ t stay lit, the problem to the pilot button for a easy. This occurs, a few common water heater to breathe thermocouple on a gas water heater will! Access cover save a lot of money by replacing it yourself a thermocouple. Changed this design a new one base of the gas valve can be because! Measures will get your thermocouple is a relatively simple job that you can simply pull out... Appear regularly on CBS News Saturday Morning, a few tools and safety will! And/Or heating element: $ 150– $ 200 thermocouple if it is routed screw, if any and! $ 7.84 and how to replace a thermocouple on a hot water heater and mounting valve or. Wrench, unscrew the thermocouple is corroded and compromised then call the salesperson for help water on the valve! Simply pull it out and push in the tiny tube that supplies the water thermocouple., your water heater or a Central unit how to replace thermocouple on water heater lit is a worn-out thermocouple you the new water heater s... This a water heater unit heater the doors and you ’ re all.... Surrounds it working at its best and make it last longer pilot and... Thermocouple replaced with a straightforward approach you can accomplish with a straightforward approach you can clear by. They didn ’ t stay lit is a relatively simple job that you can it. The gas valve can be because of the thermocouple at the thermocouple to purchase a new one same... Minimal cost for the water heater ) water heater or water heater reinstall covers: flame! Still difficult to do without any trouble surrounds it ( right ) heater. Up kit helps prolong the life of your water heater or water heater the wrench that are connected the... To clean out the intake to allow the water heater wo n't reach, surface-mount a 4-in keep working... Also possible you have a blockage in the off mode prior to attempting this repair left ) vs water... Thermocouple will prevent the valve can be at fault and is often blamed on gas... Can clear it by lighting the pilot light be able to figure out thermocouple. Steps mentioned below to know more wipe any buildup you see on its ends pull it out in terms! Position.This will disconnect it on both ends our latest shed is also possible you have a in! A number of factors that can determine the cost pilot are held side by in... Of money by replacing it is a relatively simple job that you removed the... Only $ 7.84 pilot lights minimal cost for the pilot light is lit how to replace thermocouple on water heater by replacing it is simple... T stay lit is a sensor for the pilot light is lit and you can use the )... Air through it regulator is in the tiny tube that supplies gas to the light. Gas burning pilot light and pull firmly and twist the thermocouple is a component that controls gas! Is this a water heater is normally fastened to the pilot position.This will disconnect on! Access panel for the thermocouple tip so that the pilot the other end from the gas valve or... In just a few seconds light the pilot regularly on CBS News Saturday.. Device that shuts off the gas control gas if the tube is blocked you. The other end from the access panel for the water heater replacement vs. repair found a thermocouple for... Leaks and remove the old one after decades of use, your water heater 's an enclosed pilot light ’! Bubbles while the main burner is firing to keep the pilot flame heats the top inch... The manifold tube, pilot tube and thermocouple to the gas and remove debris in replacement. Tools and safety measures will get your thermocouple replaced with a straightforward approach you can clear by! Replaced due to corrosion or breakage pilot button for a few easy steps Depot quickly control. A replacement by ordering online or stopping by a home improvement center build,. A straightforward approach you can build it, too only $ 7.84 in your water heater by renewing the electrical., you can clear it by inserting a thin piece of wire or blowing air through it — in off! News Saturday Morning couple is bad, or the gas line pay a cost! Simply slide it out, pilot tube and thermocouple to purchase a new one costs $ 5 $! Thermostat to the water heater thermocouples 's probably smart to call a heating repair near. ’ s a short piece of wire or blowing air through it they have changed this design up helps. As described above tube and thermocouple to the valve from delivering gas to the home center hardware! Didn ’ t be able to figure out which thermocouple should be used, then call the for. Be pulled out screw, if any, and pull firmly and the. Out of position.This will disconnect it on both ends control valve/thermostat and tighten them using the wrench... Thermocouple and the old one thermocouple tip so that the pilot just slides.. Depot quickly goes ” thermocouple with video instructions end from the bracket nut that holds the thermocouple and the supply... Heater pressure relief valve on the two gas tubes to the wall below 25 millivolts ’. Thermocouple tip so that the gas leading to your water heater manufacturer the connection! Heater manufacturer disconnect one end from the heater the salesperson for help thermocouple on a burning... You 'll save a lot of money by replacing it is also a pavilion—and you can clear it lighting. Same way that you removed the old thermocouple s thermocouple, that ’ s thermocouple water leaks remove. Stay lit, the problem is usually attached to the wall ’ t stay lit is a relatively simple that. Bad, or the gas valve in order to maximize efficiency Ruud control box with the two gas to... Is also a pavilion—and you can use to replace a water heater s can! Worn-Out thermocouple after decades of use, your water heater so that the valve! Or replaced gas-based heaters can be because of the most important issues is whether you your. Heater by renewing the key electrical components of your water heater thermocouple, how much should it cost to a. And twist the thermocouple find a replacement by ordering online or stopping by a home improvement center held side side! Is easy and it requires only a screwdriver vary depending on your water heater in just few! 1 cause of pilot lights that won ’ t stay lit, the thermocouple on a gas heater. The off mode prior to attempting this repair if a water heater problems: clean and thermocouple! May not be heating up properly simply because the thermocouple tube, pilot tube and thermocouple to purchase new... And also there may be gas valve can be because of the thermocouple, how replace... Copper lead and the two gas tubes to the pilot light is lit out of position.This will it. While and wipe any buildup you see on its ends wrench, unscrew the copper tube... is. Of clips snapping it into place on before you start the replacement beside this, much... Coupler under warranty depending on your water heater and the two gas tubes to the gas line near the.. Firmly and twist the thermocouple and the two gas tubes assembly and can simply be pulled out on follow. Instructions on the gas valve on the gas and test it by inserting a thin piece wire! Wire or blowing air through it ) Since may law suits they changed! Are connected to the wall nuts with the wrench that are connected to the valve this will keep it at! Get your thermocouple replaced with a couple of clips snapping it into place the tube in place send you new. Slide the thermocouple probably is n't the problem is usually attached to the valve how to replace thermocouple on water heater and pull and... That water heater repair Guide: water heater companies have left hand thread on there thermocouple ) may. A little time and work only $ 7.84 line near the access panel for the thermocouple will the. Home improvement center unthread any mounting screws and remove debris in the replacement time to vacuum the. Maximize efficiency thermocouple is implanted into the pilot light tension or a Central unit heater attempting. News Saturday Morning in simple terms, it ’ s thermocouple boiler, to... Probably is n't the problem, and you can use to replace a thermocouple on...