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Why will my propane heater not stay lit?

By Liam Parker

If the thermocouple is too far from the flame, this can cause the pilot to go out and shut down the propane heater; you can fix this easily by moving the thermocouple closer to the flame. The thermocouple could also be worn out, in which case it needs to be replaced.

Why will my propane heater not stay lit?

When your propane heater’s pilot light doesn’t stay lit, it’s most likely because of a dirty thermocouple, a dirty pilot, and a clogged orifice. The heater will also fail to work, in case it is placed in a windy area – a wind barrier will get the problem solved.

Why won’t my pilot light stay lit on my gas heater?

If your pilot light won’t stay alight, it might be the thermocouple. Sometimes dust buildup collects on the thermocouple and blocks the sensor. Try cleaning the thermocouple and then relighting the pilot light. If it continues to go out, the thermocouple might need to be replaced.

How do you troubleshoot a propane heater?

The most common reasons for a non-working propane heater are a dirty thermocouple, a thermocouple that is too far from the flame, a blocked pilot tube, an empty/overfilled gas canister, and drafts. Fortunately, the majority of homeowners will be able to take care of these issues on their own.

What is a thermocouple do?

Thermocouples are sensors used to measure temperature. A thermocouple consists of two wires, or wire legs, made from different metals. The legs are welded together at one end, into a junction, where the temperature is measured. A voltage is created when the junction senses a change in temperature.

How much does it cost to replace a furnace flame sensor?

You can expect to pay between $350 and $500 for a new flame sensor if you call a furnace repair company.

What causes a dirty flame sensor?

The flame sensor can become corroded due to carbon buildup from the flame. This can cause the sensor to fail. If the burner light goes out within seconds of switching on the unit, this is a telltale sign of a dirty sensor. If you see soot clearly covering the sensor, then it’s time for a cleaning.

What would cause my pilot light to keep going out?

A faulty, misaligned, dirty, or damaged thermocouple is often the culprit behind your pilot light going out. The thermocouple is an automatic safety shutoff device that prevents the gas valve from opening if the pilot light is out.

How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?

It costs $150 to $250 to replace a thermocouple. It checks to make sure the pilot light is on. It will shut the gas off if it’s not.

Why does my pilot light keep going out after replacing thermocouple?

If your water heater pilot won’t stay lit even after replacing the thermocouple, you most likely have a faulty gas control valve. It is a sign that the valve is failing to open and allow gas to flow to the pilot. You could also be dealing with a tripped or faulty thermal switch.