These days, when our hot water goes out on us, it’s more than an inconvenience. Our lifestyles depend on hot water in our daily routines. In fact, we are so dependent on it that water heating ranks second only to space heating for highest energy consumption in the United States.
According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), a four-person household consumes 24 percent of their energy for heating water.
Sometimes It Is Lights Out
The most common reason the pilot light on your water heater keeps going out has to do with its thermocouple. Our Great Dane professionals can either quickly repair or replace your thermocouple to restore hot water to your Clinton Township home in no time.
What Is a Thermocouple?
In the simplest terms, your water heater’s thermocouple measures temperature. More importantly, it regulates the gas flow inside your water heater—or even your furnace.
Your thermocouple has two wires: one sits near the thermostat and the other rests by the pilot light flame. When the temperature increases, the thermocouple sends an electric signal to open the gas valve and allows combustion to take place.
If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple senses the drop in temperature and signals the gas valve to close. A malfunctioning pilot light is a common sign of a faulty thermocouple.
What Causes the Thermocouple to Malfunction?
When your thermocouple is at fault, here are the top three possible causes:
1. Dirty Thermocouple
Over time, your water heater will collect dirt, dust, and other debris. Buildup on the thermocouple can cause a malfunction. This is an easy do-it-yourself (DIY) fix—just let everything cool down and gently brush off the dirt or debris.
2. Bent Thermocouple
The thermocouple is delicate and can bend easily. The end near the pilot flame must remain in close proximity to register heat properly.
If it’s bent away from the flame, it won’t sense heat and will signal the gas valve to remain closed. After the unit cools, carefully bend the thermocouple back into position.
Not comfortable making the adjustment yourself? Don’t risk it. Call Great Dane and let one of our professionals take care of it.
3. Damaged Thermocouple
If the thermocouple is clean and properly aligned but the pilot still won’t stay lit, you may be dealing with a damaged or defective part. This requires professional inspection and likely a replacement. Our skilled team can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue at your Michigan home.
In some cases, the problem might not involve the thermocouple at all. A dirty pilot light opening could be the culprit, causing the flame to burn too cool to activate the thermocouple.
If you’ve tried to diagnose the issue yourself but still have no hot water, it’s time to bring in a professional.
Contact Us for All Your Water Heater Needs
Whether your pilot light won’t ignite or you’re ready for a new water heater model, Great Dane Heating, Cooling, Electrical, & Plumbing is here for you in Clinton Township, Michigan. Call us at 586-232-9706 or request service online today.
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities.
