It has become a necessity to have hot water, and water heaters are the best way to get it. However, it is important for every homeowner to understand the basics of the water heater so that they use it in the best possible manner. A water heater comprises a number of elements, and one such important part is the water heater thermocouple.
Provided you have a gas water heater at your place, you must have heard about the thermocouple. If you aren’t sure what it is and what role it plays, do continue to read this article and find out all you need to know about water heater thermocouples.
Before we move forward, have you ever imagined what keeps the pilot light on in a gas water heater and what if it goes out? Will the gas continue to come out and spread around, or will it stop? If you have these questions in mind, it’s important that you know about the thermocouple.
What is a water heater thermocouple?
The thermocouple is composed of two strips of different metals, and it is attached near the pilot light along with the burner assembly. The minute the pilot light extinguishes, the thermocouple turns off the gas supply to the water heater to prevent fires.
By closing off the gas line, the thermocouple automatically prevents the combustion chamber from flooding with unburned gas, creating a major explosion risk with even the slightest spark. Thus, a thermocouple is also stated as a major safety component.
There is no harm in using the gas water heater, but it should be safe to use for us all. A thermocouple is what makes sure the gas stops coming out the minute the pilot is off. You can say a thermocouple serves as the emergency gas shut-off.
When the leak continues for a while, it is hard to imagine what the risk might be. Even a minor spark can cause a big explosion, which not only puts the house at risk but many people living nearby as well.
Do all water heaters have thermocouples?
Since the thermocouple is such an important safety component, you might have guessed that all water heaters will come with one. But, it’s not true. The latest models of the water heater make use of the mercury sensor or the advanced temperature control system that shuts off the gas valve in this case.
Electric heaters, on the other hand, do not require a thermocouple at all because there is no gas involved.
Can the water heater thermocouple fail?
Just like any other part of the water heater, thermocouples are also prone to failure. As a matter of safety, thermocouples must be repaired or replaced whenever necessary.
Whenever the pilot light doesn’t stay lit, thermocouple failure is likely to be the cause. Remember that it’s a common problem with gas water heaters, and it can happen anytime.
During the warranty period, a manufacturer may replace a thermocouple free of charge if the water heater is under warranty. Your water heater must need to be maintained frequently to keep it safe throughout the year. Let’s get to know the procedure to clean the thermocouple on a water heater.
How to clean a water heater thermocouple?
A malfunctioning thermocouple can cause problems with the heating of your water heater. Consider cleaning it before you go for the replacement. It is an easy practice that any person can perform. You will need an adjustable wrench and some cleaning supplies.
- The first step involves shutting off the gas supply from the mainline. It’s an important step for any kind of repair or replacement work you do.
- The next step is to detach the burner assembly using the wrench from the control center.
- The thermocouple will be exposed, and you can clean it well using cloth sandpaper. You may also clean the burner while it’s out.
- Once you are done cleaning, reconnect the assembly and light the pilot to see if it is working now.
- If it still doesn’t work properly, you need to replace the thermocouple.
Conclusion
The thermocouple is an integral part of the water heater’s pilot burner system, which keeps the water heater functioning safely. In the event of a pilot light failure, the thermocouple is supposed to shut off the gas valve. It prevents the gas from spreading as it can be too dangerous.
It is probable that your gas water heater has a thermocouple. Make sure it works well. For added benefit, do check out other important parts of the water heater.