Ask Experts Questions for FREE Help !
Ask
    MrPinMN's Avatar
    MrPinMN Posts: 7, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Feb 26, 2007, 08:29 PM
    Water heater can't decide to run or shut off
    I've got a power vent gas water heater that has operated perfectly for several years but lately been unable to shut off without a racket.
    The problem seems to occur when there are multiple uses for hot water, i.e. weekends.
    The vent fan comes on and off rapidly and the solenoid clicks like a machine gun. I can make the unit "fire up" by running hot water until a definite demand is created. I replaced the thermostat and gas control valve. I've checked the air line and then replaced the air pressure switch. I've had the gas company out to check the pressure which was 7" W.C. so now I'm lost.
    Any experts out there?
    I have contacted the manufacturer, who tried to help via email but gave up.
    stew_1962's Avatar
    stew_1962 Posts: 255, Reputation: 10
    Full Member
    		  
    #2

    Mar 5, 2007, 09:40 PM
    Try reposting this on the plumbing forum
    labman's Avatar
    labman Posts: 10,580, Reputation: 551
    Uber Member
    		  
    #3

    Mar 5, 2007, 09:53 PM
    It really is a relay, not a solenoid. Check the voltage to it when it is clicking. If it is OK, replace the relay. If the voltage is low, follow it back to its source.
    MrPinMN's Avatar
    MrPinMN Posts: 7, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #4

    Mar 6, 2007, 08:43 AM
    Thanks for thoughts-
    This weekend I noticed the clacking noise (as the valve and vent were struggling to start) was concurrent with the operation of the gas clothes dryer. Is it possible that the dryer is causing a low pressure situation at the WH?
    And equally puzzling why after ten years and replacement of thermostat, gas valve and solenoid, air pressure switch and relay.

    Thanks again.
Not your question? Ask your question View similar questions
 

Question Tools Search this Question
Search this Question:

Advanced Search

Add your answer here.


Check out some similar questions!

Need help deciding between a tank or tankless water heater [ 19 Answers ]

Which one saves me money; the tankless water heater or conventional tank water heater? :confused:

Can one shut off water main valve but leave gas hot water tank on? [ 4 Answers ]

I would like to know if I go away for two days and shut my main water shutoff valve can I leave my gas hot water tank on. I saw two answers To a similar question and one answer said you can leave it on and the other Said you had to shut it off. I am confused now as to whether I can leave the gas...

Water heater can't decide to run or shut off [ 2 Answers ]

I've got a power vent gas water heater that has operated perfectly for several years but lately been unable to shut off without a racket. The problem seems to occur when there are multiple uses for hot water, i.e. weekends. The vent fan comes on and off rapidly and the solenoid clicks like a...

Can I Run A Dishwasher W/water Heater Turned Off? [ 7 Answers ]

Hi. I have an electric water heater with a slow leak that I can't replace until later next week. I already turned it off and drained it. I did this before I realized that the dishwasher only takes water from the heater, and now of course I can't run the utterly packed dishwasher (divorced mom,...

Reason heater may shut off in cold temps [ 4 Answers ]

In early December while we were on vacation our heater shut off and subsequently pipes froze causing water damage. What are some reasons the furnace would stop working?

View more questions Search