I just bought a hot water heater. The thermocouple went bad. The tank has the new safety features. I know how to replace the thermocouple but I can't figure out how to remove inner cover. Is there a way to remover cover without cutting the plug that the thermocouple goes through?

Thanks, Brad

Hi Brad:

Last time I did this, I needed to purchase a T20 Torx screwdriver for tamper-resistant screws to remove the inner door.

Once the door is removed then you can disconnect the thermocouple and pull back through the rubber grommet/seal at the door (no cutting).

What is your particular model of water heater...??

You are usually required by the maunufacturer to replace the inner door gasket if you replace the thermocouple. Usually sold as a THERMOCOUPLE REPLACEMENT KIT (click on attachment) at the place you purchased the water heater.

NOT LIKE IT WAS YEARS AGO WHERE YOU DROPPED THE DOOR AND JUST REPLACED THE THERMOCOUPLE. The newer combustion chambers require a closed chamber for good reason... people were burning themselves trying to light the pilot with all kinds of things and/or waiting to long and got burned badly!

Anyway, get back to me with model, model number and serial number on your heater and I will see if I can find out more specifics for you.

Let me know what you think...

MARK.