Is it difficult to replace the thermocouple on this water heater? I installed the water heater 4 years ago and now we have to light the pilot every day. So I thought I would try to replace the thermocouple since Sears is no help. And if I replace the thermocouple can I use aftermarket since it does not have that high temperature cut-off switch?

See http://www.ehow.com/how_6007272_repair-heater-pilot-light-outage.html. But, use a toilet-bowl type brush (not a bottle brush). I had found that suggestion on another website that I cannot locate right now. Anyway, this cleaning worked for us just yesterday, so happy, and hope that you have great results, as well! LuAnn