How does a thermocouple work on a water heater?

The thermocouple is part of the pilot burner assembly and connects to the gas control valve on the outside of the water heater. It is a simple device that converts the heat from a burning flame into a small electrical current, allowing it to work like a switch to control the flow of gas from the gas supply valve.

What’s the difference between a flame sensor and a thermocouple?

On older-style heaters with standing pilot lights, the device is typically called a thermocouple, while on newer units with electronic ignition, the same (or virtually the same) device is called a flame sensor. For our purposes, we’ll refer to both devices as the thermocouple .

Is the thermocouple part of the burner assembly?

With both types of ignition—standing pilot or electronic—the thermocouple is part of the burner assembly. With a standing pilot, there is just a pilot and thermocouple attached to the burner assembly. With an electronic ignition, there is both the pilot and thermocouple, as well as an electronic igniter attached to the burner assembly.

How much does a flame sensor on a water heater cost?

Estimated Cost: $10 to $30 A thermocouple or flame sensor is a device used to control gas flow in gas water heaters. On older-style heaters with standing pilot lights, the device is typically called a thermocouple, while on newer units with electronic ignition, the same (or virtually the same) device is called a flame sensor.

What does the thermocouple do on my water heater?

The thermocouple is part of the pilot burner assembly and connects to the gas control valve on the outside of the water heater. It is a simple device that converts the heat from a burning flame into a small electrical current , allowing it to work like a switch to control the flow of gas from the gas supply valve .

How do you replace thermocouple on hot water heater?

Pull out the burner assembly. Unclip the thermocouple tube and pull the probe out of the fitting that holds it next to the pilot tube. Insert the probe of a new thermocouple into the fitting and adjust it so that it sits 1/8 to 1/4 inch past the pilot tube. Snap the hose onto the burner assembly.

Where is the thermocouple on a gas water heater?

The thermocouple on a gas water heater is inside the burner assembly, next to the pilot tube.

How do you clean a hot water heater thermocouple?

Use consistent pressure and continue sanding until the thermocouple’s surface is clean. Wipe the sanded surface with a lint-free cloth to remove dust or particles that were left behind by the sandpaper. Turn the hot water heater back on and relight the pilot light.