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    carls9145's Avatar
    carls9145 Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Jan 4, 2010, 05:12 PM
    My pilot on my water heater goes out intermittently. Every week or so.
    The pilot light goes out at odd times. 2 weeks working fine then out. Then 2 days and out again. Then 3 weeks and now twice in them same day. It always lights and burner comes on and heats good with no leaks. Vent seems OK with no air drafts. Could it be the thermocouple? I'm a backyard mechanic and can probably replace whatever needs to be replaced. We are in a mobile home and the water heater is the proper type that can be used for NG or LP. I have NG. It is a few years old and appears that the burner was replaced some years ago. I've been here 6 years and had no problems until now. Appreciate any ideas.
    massplumber2008's Avatar
    massplumber2008 Posts: 12,832, Reputation: 1212
    Senior Plumbing Expert
    		  
    #2

    Jan 4, 2010, 05:20 PM
    Hi Carl...

    It certainly sounds like the thermocouple is on its way out. Some thermocouples kick out for good the first time they go out and others do what you describe.

    Thermocouples are super cheap ($7.00) and super easy to replace... just need a screwdriver and some open end wrenches. I'd recommend that you replace it with a universal thermocouple and see if that fixes the issue... certainly can't hurt!

    MARK
    carls9145's Avatar
    carls9145 Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #3

    Jan 5, 2010, 12:35 PM

    The gas co. came out this morning and checked the gas pressure and it was low. They increased it and we'll see if that works. If not I will put a "universal thermocouple" on and see if that helps. I appreciate the advice. Thank you, carls9145
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