Our water heater is 2 1/2 years old, we can get it lit but after about an hour it goes out... do you think the problem is the thermocouple?

Hi Cachanillo..

If your water heater is only 2.5 years old then most likely it has a CLOSED COMBUSTION CHAMBER, i.e. you cannot access the thermocouple without having to remove screws and plate... yes?

If this is so, then it could be the thermocouple, the vapor switch or could even be insufficient ventilation. In the case of inadequate ventilation check the screen along the bottom front or side and see if this is clogged... that would cause the pilot to go out intermittently.

Otherwise, you will need yo explore where heater was purchased and what parts are required to change the thermocouple. Newer heaters today require that you change the combustion chamber GASKET as well as the thermocouple to maintain warranty.

Let me know if this all sounds right... ok?

MARK