Water heater repair question

[jerp]

The pilot light keeps going out in our 10 year old water heater. I installed a new thermocouple, figuring that was the most likely problem. Still no workey. I light the pilot and hold the button for 60 seconds. (even tried holding it for 2-3 minutes) but as soon as I let go of the button the flame disappears. What else might be the problem?

[cosmiccowboy]

The pilot light keeps going out in our 10 year old water heater. I installed a new thermocouple, figuring that was the most likely problem. Still no workey. I light the pilot and hold the button for 60 seconds. (even tried holding it for 2-3 minutes) but as soon as I let go of the button the flame disappears. What else might be the problem?

Are you sure the thermocouple is in the flame? The pilot may be dirty and not directing the pilot flame properly.

[cj7zrcool]

I'm CERTAINLY not accusing you of this, John. But about 15 years ago I had the same problem with my water heater. Changed the thermocouple...twice, messed with it for two days, then bought and installed a new water heater.....out of propane. I never checked it because I just had it filled about two months before, apparently it had all leaked out. Called the propane company back out and they tested the tank valve and sure enough, it had a leak. After much arguing that I didn't have the problem until they had fooled with it, they replaced the valve and refilled the tank.

[jerp]

Thanks CC, I'll try cleaning the pilot tube.
And Jeff, as much as that sounds like something I would do we are on natural gas

[Mayhem]

sounds like a regulator problem.

[jerp]

Well I did what I always do when I'm stumped on a repair job - I took it all apart and put it all back together. Not sure why, but that works sometimes - this time it did!

[cosmiccowboy]

Well I did what I always do when I'm stumped on a repair job - I took it all apart and put it all back together. Not sure why, but that works sometimes - this time it did!

Yep, it's surprising how little it takes to make a pilot not work right...just a tiny little rust flake in the wrong place can make a difference.

[Todd-ty729]

Thanks CC, I'll try cleaning the pilot tube.
And Jeff, as much as that sounds like something I would do we are on natural gas

Since we have had some rain recently, it is possible that the underground line between your gas meter and house has a leak, water seeped in through the hole in the line somewhere, and has filled the gas line with water and partially blocked the gas flow to the house.

Otherwise I would say try replacing the thermocouple as has already been suggested.

[TXBlkCld]

The water heater is 10 years old. Replace the whole thing. It's not your cheapest option but it is by far your wisest option. An ounce of prevention is or a pound of cure. Your call.