How to Replace a Thermocouple on an Old Furnace
Older model home furnaces come equipped with a component called a thermocouple. This is a metal rod that attaches to the furnace via an electrical cable. The rod itself is positioned next to the pilot light. It senses whether a flame is present to start up of the furnace. If no flame is sensed, the furnace shuts the gas supply off. This is an important safety feature, and if your thermocouple is faulty, you should replace it immediately. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Locate the main gas supply in your home, and shut off the supply via the valve on the gas line.
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2
Lift the front cover of the furnace assembly to remove it. Set the cover aside. This provides access to the thermocouple, located next to the pilot light.
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3
Follow the copper tube, which is connected to the thermocouple, up to where it connects to the gas valve. Unplug the connection.
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4
Follow the line running from the pilot light to the gas supply, and unplug it.
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5
Remove the screws on the metal bracket holding the thermocouple and pilot assembly in place. Remove the bracket and remove the assembly.
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6
Unscrew the thermocouple from the assembly. In some models, the thermocouple may simply pull out.
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Screw or snap a new thermocouple into the port on the assembly.
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8
Replace the assembly, and attach the pilot line and thermocouple line to the gas supply.
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9
Replace the metal bracket and screws.
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