If your gas water heater keeps turning off, the problem most likely lies with the thermocouple. This vital component detects when the pilot light is lit and then allows gas to flow to the burner. A faulty thermocouple will shut off gas to the burner as well as the pilot.
Why does my water keep turning off?
It’s most commonly a thermostat or heating coil issue, which can be verified with an electrical tester. Another sign a water heater component is going bad is when the unit triggers a shut down every time hot water is called. If the breaker is tripping, an electrician can determine why the unit is shorting out.
What do you do when your water heater keeps turning off?
- Call Your Plumber. The first thing you should do is call your plumber. …
- Gas Supply Problems. Your gas water heater will turn off if it isn’t getting the fuel it needs. …
- Dirty Thermopile or Pilot Light. …
- Dirty Air Inlet.
What is the most common problem with a gas hot water heater?
Some common problems for all types of Hot Water Heaters are, pressure relief valves, leaks, sediment, drain valves, anode rods and dip tubes. A general troubleshooting discussion is provide in the article, ‘Identifying and Repairing Water Heater Problems’. The danger with a gas hot water heater is the gas itself.Why does my water heater not stay lit?
When the pilot light on a water heater will no longer stays lit, it typically means the thermocouple is bad. Thermocouples are little electric generators that create a magnetic current that holds open a magnetic gas valve inside the control unit on the front of the water heater.
How do you know when a gas water heater is going bad?
- You don’t have enough hot water. …
- You have varying water temperature issues. …
- You have a leaking water heater. …
- You notice reduced water flow. …
- You’re hearing some concerning sounds. …
- You have smelly or discolored water. …
- Your water heater is on the older end of the spectrum.
Why does my hot water heater keep tripping?
If your water heater reset button keeps tripping, one of your heating elements may be broken or worn out. As this component is used to heat water, your hot water heater won’t work without it. When the reset button on a water heater thermostat keeps tripping, the metal casing of the heating element may have cracks.
What is the life expectancy of a gas water heater?
The type of water heater and where you are located: While many say 8 to 12 years is the expected life for a standard gas-powered water heater, this range can change and be very dependent on where you are located. The level of sediment in your tank affects the lifespan of your water heater.How do I know if my gas valve is bad on my water heater?
If the burner stays on, turn the gas supply off and replace the gas valve. If the pilot is lit, you have a tank of cold water, the thermostat turned up and the burner does not fire up, either the burner orifice is clogged or the water heater gas valve is bad.
Why won't my pilot light stay lit on my gas heater?If your pilot light won’t stay alight, it might be the thermocouple. Sometimes dust buildup collects on the thermocouple and blocks the sensor. Try cleaning the thermocouple and then relighting the pilot light. If it continues to go out, the thermocouple might need to be replaced.
Article first time published onHow much does it cost to replace a water heater thermocouple?
Thermocouple – $20 to $150 The thermocouple is an apparatus that senses whether the pilot light is lit and triggers the gas control valve. Repairs typically cost about $150 to have it done professionally, though a new thermocouple itself only costs about $20 on average.
Can a gas shut off valve go bad?
If the valve is not leaking and turns off it is fine. The old brass valves last forever. Pulling the valve may introduce leaks inside the walls.
How much does it cost to replace 40 gallon water heater?
Water heater costs by gallon A standard 40-gallon water heater costs $330 to $1,500 for the unit alone, or $500 to $2,500 including installation labor. *Price for tank unit only, not including installation.
How do you know when to replace a hot water heater?
- The System Age.
- Loss of Hot Water Volume.
- Rising Heating Bills.
- Corrosion.
- Reddish Discoloration in the Water.
- Too Many Repairs.
How long can a water heater go without water?
Related Content. WAPT spoke to four plumbing companies that all said that homeowners should turn off the water heater if the water is not running for more than 24 hours. Residents can go to the breaker box in the home and throw the breaker to the “off” position for the water heater.
Why would pilot light 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.
Can you clean a thermocouple?
Yes, you can clean a thermocouple, but the task must be done with a light touch. Remove the thermocouple from the process assembly, using a steel wool or emery cloth, lightly clean the tip removing any build up.
Why does my pilot light stay on?
As we mentioned above, your pilot light needs a consistent supply of gas to stay lit. If your gas valve is turned to the OFF position or something is wrong with the valve, your pilot light won’t be supplied with enough gas to stay lit. The solution: Check your gas valve and ensure that it’s turned on.
Can I replace a thermocouple myself?
The No. 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.
How much does a plumber charge to replace a thermocouple?
Calling a professional plumber to install a new thermocouple should only be up to $150. If you do the work yourself, you will only pay the price of the part which is about $20. The thermocouple is responsible for sensing that the pilot light is lit and triggering the gas control valve to continue providing gas.
What's a thermocouple look like?
The thermocouple looks like a piece of metal tubing smaller than a soda straw. To find it, first locate the gas control box. This is the box that the main gas line enters, where you turn the gas on in the furnace. (On most furnaces, it also houses the button that you hold open or push to relight the pilot.)
Where is the thermocouple located on a gas water heater?
The thermocouple is part of the water heater’s burner assembly and is positioned next to the pilot light. It slides into a bracket and is held in place by a couple of clips. The thermocouple line runs outside the heater and is connected to the gas control valve, which is located on the outside of the tank.
How often should a thermocouple be replaced?
How to Tell if You Have a Bad Thermocouple? Thermocouples can last up to 10 years if properly installed and maintained, while furnaces can last 15-20 years, although either may wear out sooner in multifamily units.
