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Can you replace a thermocouple yourself?
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. 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.
How do you remove a thermocouple and replace it?
How to Replace a Thermocouple Open the Access Cover. Remove the furnace’s access cover. Remove the Old Thermocouple. Using an open-end wrench, unscrew the nut that holds the thermocouple end fitting into the gas control valve. Install the New Thermocouple. Connect the Gas. Turn on the Gas and Power.
How do I know if my thermocouple is bad?
If you can’t get the flame to light at all, and you’re sure the gas is on, there’s probably an obstruction in the pilot tube. If the flame lights and goes out when you release the gas control knob after holding it in for the recommended 20 to 30 seconds, that’s the sign of a thermocouple malfunction.
What causes a thermocouple to fail?
METAL FATIGUE Like everything, thermocouples can’t stay new forever. Changes in temperature can cause regular expansion and contraction in metal, which will cause thermocouples to weaken over time. After enough time, metal fatigue can cause a thermocouple to break.
Should thermocouple be in pilot flame?
The pilot flame should touch the thermocouple at a specific level. If the flame is blue and weak, and barely reaches the thermocouple, it needs to be stronger. If it extends well above the thermocouple, it’s too strong. Install a new thermocouple by screwing it in, heating it up a bit, and then lighting the pilot.
How do you fix a pilot light that keeps going out?
Once The Flame Is Lit, Turn Gas Control Valve to “On” Once the pilot light is ignited, you can release the reset button after 30 seconds and turn the gas knob to the “On” position. At this time you should hear the main burner come on. Now your pilot light should hold a flame and hot water should be restored!.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?
It costs $150 to $250 to replace a thermocouple. It checks to make sure the pilot light is on. It will shut the gas off if it’s not.
What does it mean when your pilot light won’t stay lit?
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.
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.
Can a thermocouple be bad if the pilot stays lit?
The function of a thermocouple in a gas valve is to assure that an active pilot light is functioning properly to ignite any supply gas. If the thermocouple fails, for any reason, the gas flow must be shut down even if the pilot is properly lit. The function is termed a “Fail Safe” mode.
How long do thermocouples 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.
Why does my gas fireplace keep shutting off?
One of the main reasons why your gas fireplace keeps shutting down is likely due to the pilot light. Understandably, if your fire is not catching, or if the fire keeps going out, it could be due to the pilot light. This could be because there is dust or debris in the pilot light.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple in a gas fireplace?
When replacing a thermocouple or thermopile with the help of a professional, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250.
What is the most common thermocouple failure mode?
The most common failure mode for thermocouples is for them to fail open, this is known as thermocouple burnout. Burnout can result from a variety of reasons including the thermocouple experiencing a temperature in excess of that for which it was designed, metal fatigue, and oxidation.
Can you damage a thermocouple?
Like the other component parts in your furnace, the thermocouple can wear down over time, producing lower voltage than it should when heated. And the worst part is that you can have a bad thermocouple without even knowing. Therefore, inspecting and testing your thermocouple should be part of your furnace maintenance.
Why does my thermocouple keep getting dirty?
Under constant exposure to a hot flame, a thermocouple wears down over time. Even a slight residue can make the thermocouple malfunction. The fix here is as easy as removing the thermocouple, cleaning it with a wire brush or something coarse (even an ordinary dollar bill works), and replacing.
Why is my pilot light yellow?
A yellow flame is caused by lack of oxygen and incomplete combustion. If the pilot light is a weak yellow flame it will not get hot enough to heat the thermocouple to the temperature needed to enable the gas valve to open. This is often caused by a dirty pilot tube tip.
Does gas still flow when pilot light goes out?
If your pilot light repeatedly goes out, this is a likely culprit. If this flame sensor should fail, gas will continue to flow even after the pilot light has been extinguished, causing a safety hazard, and requiring immediate repair.
Why does my pilot light make noise?
If there is a roaring sound that occurs when the pilot light is on, it is usually because the flame needs to be adjusted. A grinding or shrieking noise is usually caused by a fan or blower. Newer gas fireplaces with blowers are usually a lot quieter than a lot of older fan systems, which can sometimes be quite noisy.
