Pilot Light Will Not Stay Lit on a Hot Water Heater
If the pilot light on a gas water heater doesn't stay lit, the water heater can't start up and heat water for use in the house. The pilot light is the ignition source for the heater. Reasons why a pilot light might not stay lit range from drafts to equipment malfunctions. Does this Spark an idea?
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Pilot Light Function
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A pilot light is a small flame that burns constantly on the hot water heater. When the heater turns on, the pilot light ignites the gas so that it heats the water contained in the water heater's tank. A thermocouple sensor monitors the pilot light to make sure that it's burning. If the pilot light goes out, the sensor causes the gas valve to close so that gas doesn't escape and create a potential fire or explosion hazard.
Possible Causes
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One possibility if a pilot light continually goes out is a draft that blows the flame out. Pilot lights also go out if dirt or debris clogs the gas line or nozzle. Problems with the thermocouple sensor can also cause the pilot light to keep going out. You may have a defective sensor or one with loose connections. A defective gas control valve or gas pressure that is too low can also create pilot light problems.
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Troubleshooting
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To determine the cause of your pilot light problem, begin by inspecting your water heater and the pilot light. Improperly installed burner access covers may be the cause of drafts blowing out the pilot light. Look at the gas line nozzle to see if there is any visible dirt or blockage. Check the thermocouple's connections to make sure that none of them are loose. If you smell gas or can't find a source for the problem, don't try to fix it yourself. Call a repairman to inspect the gas lines and check the heater for faulty components.
Maintenance and Prevention
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Clean the burner nozzles and check thermocouple connections every few months to prevent problems. Whenever you remove any covers, make sure that you put them back correctly. If you suspect problems with the gas line or other water heater components, call in a qualified technician to inspect and repair them. Faulty water heaters pose serious risks and can cause explosions and fires.
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References
- Photo Credit bricoleur image by francois clappe from Fotolia.com
