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How to Clean the Thermocouple in a Gas Fireplace Turn off the fireplace gas valve and remove the front panel from the fireplace. Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple.
How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my gas fireplace?
The Fix: Pilot Light to Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit So you’ve checked your pilot light and even reset it, but still, it wont stay lit. This can be an indication that your fireplace thermocouple is either bad or worn out.
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 will my gas fireplace not stay lit?
The thermocouple and thermopile are the two most common reasons why a gas fireplace won’t stay lit. However, there are other possibilities out there. Another common culprit is incorrect gas pressure. As the seasons pass, you may find that your gas pressure drops below where it needs to be.
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 does a thermocouple last on a gas fireplace?
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 clean a dirty 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 maintain a thermocouple?
A temperature indicator or recorder should be checked, either with a potential divider or a standard thermocouple at least once a month, whether it is used much or little. Terminals must be kept clean, insulation must be checked, and thermocouples themselves must be recalibrated.
Why is my thermocouple not working?
If the appliance has a thermocouple, the problem may be a faulty thermocouple. The thermocouple, which operates as a safety device, turns the gas supply off when the pilot light goes out. When a thermocouple fails, the pilot light won’t stay lighted. A burned out or broken thermocouple should be replaced.
Do thermocouples go bad?
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.
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.
Can you bypass thermocouple?
Realistically, you have just disabled the thermocouple, but you can also reach in and unclip it from its holding bracket where it meets the pilot light. In most cases it will be held on with a gravity clip, but some are held on with a screw that must be removed with a small screwdriver.
Should I turn off the pilot light on my gas fireplace in the summer?
Your Utility Bill Perhaps the most important reason to turn off gas fireplace pilot light in summer is because of the money and energy you will be saving. If you leave the pilot light on during the summer it is simply sitting there burning gas, which is wasting gas and contributing to an exorbitant energy bill.
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.
Can I replace a thermocouple myself?
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.
Why does my thermocouple keeps burning out?
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.
Can you overheat a thermocouple?
A: Thermocouples are designed to be low maintenance items. If the back end of your thermocouple bulb gets constantly overheated, it will fail. With excessive back pressure coming from the burner ports, thermocouples can get burned up quickly.
Can you sand a thermocouple?
Water Heater Thermocouple Cleaning in 5 Steps This is always the first step when working on a water heater. Clean the thermocouple – using the emery cloth sandpaper, sand the ends of the thermocouple and then give it a finishing touch with the lint-free cloth.
How do you clean a thermocouple pilot light?
How to Clean a Pilot Light Cut off the gas to your furnace. Remove the pilot light and thermocouple assembly. Use your pliers or wrench to remove the pilot light and thermocouple from the bracket. Using the wire brush, brush away the carbon buildup and soot from both components.
