To change the thermocouple on a Reliant 606 water heater, you will first need to turn off the gas supply and water heater. Remove the access panel, locate the thermocouple, unscrew it from the control valve, and disconnect it from the pilot assembly. Install the new thermocouple by reversing these steps, making sure it is properly positioned and secured.
Right below the thermocouple if applicable
THERMOCOUPLE or defective gas valve
It is one or the other. The thermocouple on a gas heater generates a very small current that keeps the gas valve open. A few micro volts. The thermocouple is the small tube that sits in the flame of the pilot light.
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If the pilot light goes out when the gas is turned on, it could be due to a dirty or faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot tube, or a problem with the gas supply. It's important to have a professional inspect and repair the water heater to ensure it is functioning safely and effectively.
The only power used by a gas water heater is the small current generated by the thermocouple that keeps the gas valve open. It comes on mechanically when the water temperature drops. You don't need house current.
To replace a thermocouple on a hot water heater, start by turning off the gas supply and allowing the unit to cool. Remove the old thermocouple by unscrewing it from the gas control valve and pilot assembly. Insert the new thermocouple in the same position, tighten it securely, and relight the pilot light before turning the gas supply back on.
A thermocouple on a gas heater operates by generating a small voltage when heated by the pilot flame. This voltage signals the gas valve to stay open, allowing gas to flow to the burner. If the pilot flame is extinguished, the lack of voltage from the thermocouple will cause the gas valve to shut off, preventing a gas leak.
The pilot may not be lighting due to a problem with the gas supply, a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot tube, or a malfunctioning control valve. Check for gas supply, ensure the pilot area is clear of debris, and consider replacing the thermocouple if necessary.
You need a qualified tradesman
Electronic ignition refering to it having a sparker to light the pilot light? That just lights the pilot, there is still a thermocouple that controls the gas valve. The thermocouple is the small tube that sits in the pilot flame and runs to the control valve. To replace, you will need to remove the cover plate, gas line, thermocouple, and sparker wire as a unit and replace the thermocouple once you have it out and them re-install the unit.