Can you just clean a thermocouple?
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Can you just 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.
What would cause a pilot light to keep going out?
The most common reason that your pilot light on your water heater keeps going out is a damaged, bent or dirty thermocouple.
How do I clean my thermocouple?
The best way to clean your thermocouple is to use either a piece of steel wool or the coarse side of a sponge to gently clean off any soot or other remnants. You can use a pencil eraser to clean between the threads of the screw that connects the thermocouple to the control valve of your system.
How do you keep a pilot light lit?
Hold a lighted match to the pilot opening while you push the reset button on the pilot control panel. Keep this button depressed until the pilot flame burns brightly, then set the valve to the ON position. Step 4: If the pilot flame won’t stay lit, the opening may be clogged.
What does a bad thermocouple look like?
Before jumping to the conclusion that the thermocouple is at fault, look at the pilot flame. If it appears small and has an orange-yellow tinge, it may be too weak to heat the thermocouple. The likely problem, again, is an obstruction in the pilot tube.
How long should thermocouple last?
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.
How do you fix a gas fire that keeps going out?
Easy DIY Fix: Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit
- Before You Begin: Is Your Pilot Light Lit Inside Fireplace?
- The Fix: Pilot Light to Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit.
- Check Your Thermopile Output with the TH/TP Contacts.
- Don’t Replace Your Thermopile or Thermocouple Right Away.
- Cleaning the Thermopile.
- Re-test the Cleaned Thermopile.
Why won’t the pilot stay lit on my wall heater?
The Pilot Won’t Stay Lit A pilot that won’t stay lit could be the result of a blockage in the pilot tube. Turn off the gas, clear the tube with compressed air, and relight the pilot. If that doesn’t work, you may need to call a repairman to come and install a new thermocouple.
Why does my pilot light keep going out on my gas fireplace?
If the pilot light on your gas fireplace won’t stay lit, a very likely culprit is a component called a thermocouple. A thermocouple is a safety device and is a component of the ignition system. Its purpose is to not allow the gas valve to open if the pilot light isn’t lit.