Troubleshootintg water heater
Had to replace my house water heater yesterday after a couple days of on-line research and troubleshooting plus a call for tech help from the manufacturer.
The only real info I got was how to test the thermocouple: Disconnect the thermocouple, light the pilot, and measure the voltage at the end of the thermocouple after it has been in the flame for at least one full minute. This can be done with only two hands (have to keep holding down that button plus probe the TC), but more would make it somewhat easier.
Bottom line, if the voltage out exceeds 12 millivolts when it is hot, it is probable OK, and it probably won't get above 20 millivolts.
If this fails, a new thermocouple runs about $10 or so and is the most likely part and the cheapest part to buy.
If it is good the next probable part is the gas control valve which is considerably more expensive.
Quite sure the same control ideas run any water heater in an RV.
I hope this helps someone.
The only real info I got was how to test the thermocouple: Disconnect the thermocouple, light the pilot, and measure the voltage at the end of the thermocouple after it has been in the flame for at least one full minute. This can be done with only two hands (have to keep holding down that button plus probe the TC), but more would make it somewhat easier.
Bottom line, if the voltage out exceeds 12 millivolts when it is hot, it is probable OK, and it probably won't get above 20 millivolts.
If this fails, a new thermocouple runs about $10 or so and is the most likely part and the cheapest part to buy.
If it is good the next probable part is the gas control valve which is considerably more expensive.
Quite sure the same control ideas run any water heater in an RV.
I hope this helps someone.
