Just had the thermocouple replaced today started a load of laundry and took a shower got out and I could smell a weird strong smell. Don't know what it is. Not gas though. The last thermocouple copper wire had sut build up on it and broke in two almost instantly. Could it have something to do with that wire. We had the problem a year ago and after a month it quit. Got the part replaced because it wouldn't stay lit

Could it be a "rotten-egg" smell?
Check out this website for a lot of good info:

WaterHeaterRescue (http://www.waterheaterrescue.com/pages/WHRpages/English/Troubleshooting/stinky-water-in-hot-water-heaters.html)

I'm not affiliated with them in any way... just wanted to point out a good resource.

Best of luck,
WallyH