How do you remove a thermocouple from a fireplace?

How do you remove a thermocouple from a fireplace?

The only tool you need to replace a thermocouple is a wrench. Use it to unscrew the connector that holds the thermocouple to the gas valve, then unhook the probe from its clip and pull out the entire thermocouple assembly.

Can you replace a thermocouple yourself?

1 cause of pilot lights that won’t stay lit is a worn-out thermocouple. It’s easy to replace and a new one costs $5 to $10. Then unfasten the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve. The burner typically sits loosely—or under clips—in the burning chamber and just slides out.

What does a thermocouple do in a gas fireplace?

The thermocouple more or less acts like a sensor for gas flow and supplies gas to the pilot light through the gas valve. The thermopile, on the other hand, opens up the gas valve when the fireplaces are turned on.

How long does a fireplace thermocouple last?

It keeps the gas valve open by transmitting the electric signal when the pilot is on. Mainly, the thermocouple lasts for 10 years. But, when it fails, the pilot does not lit up and so the fireplace stops working. So, a thermocouple is an important device in the functioning of a fireplace.

How long do thermocouples last?

In effect, new thermocouples were installed into contaminated tubes, causing the degradation of the sensors and generating greater than a 100°F shift in accuracy. In this scenario, thermocouple life, which should have been close to one year, was shortened to within a week.

Why do thermocouples go bad?

Changes in temperature can cause regular expansion and contraction in metal, which will cause thermocouples to weaken over time. After enough time, metal fatigue can cause a thermocouple to break. If thermocouples start to give out unusual readings, it may be suffering from metal fatigue.

How do you replace a thermocouple on a gas fireplace?

To replace a gas fireplace thermocouple, take measurements of the removed part, or carry the old part to store, so that the replacement is the right size. The new T couple should be installed onto the pilot assembly as the old one was installed. The height of the old and the new element-end should be same.

How do you clean a thermocouple on a gas fireplace?

Use a piece of steel wool or the abrasive side of a sponge to gently remove the soot without damaging thermocouple. Avoid using cleaning products, especially those containing flammable chemicals. Use a pencil eraser to clean between the threads of the screw that attaches the thermocouple.

Where is the thermocouple on a gas fireplace?

The thermocouple is a gas furnace component located near the pilot light burner. It is a safety device that shuts off the gas if the pilot light goes out or the electric igniter fails.

How do you clean hot water heater thermocouple?

Use consistent pressure and continue sanding until the thermocouple’s surface is clean. Wipe the sanded surface with a lint-free cloth to remove dust or particles that were left behind by the sandpaper. Turn the hot water heater back on and relight the pilot light.