How do you clean a thermocouple on a boiler?
The best way to clean your thermocouple is to use either a piece of steel wool or the coarse side of a sponge to gently clean off any soot or other remnants. You can use a pencil eraser to clean between the threads of the screw that connects the thermocouple to the control valve of your system.
Why is my thermocouple not working?
If the appliance has a thermocouple, the problem may be a faulty thermocouple. The thermocouple, which operates as a safety device, turns the gas supply off when the pilot light goes out. When a thermocouple fails, the pilot light won’t stay lighted. A burned out or broken thermocouple should be replaced.
Will the pilot light stay lit if the thermocouple is bad?
A thermocouple senses the heat of the pilot and allows gas to flow to the burner. A bad thermocouple will shut off gas to both the pilot and the burner so the pilot light won’t stay lit.
How do you troubleshoot a thermocouple?
Select the ohms or resistance option on your multimeter. Place one test lead on the side of the thermocouple and the other to the end that screws into the gas valve. If the thermocouple has proper continuity, a small resistance reading should be visible on the multimeter.
How often should a thermocouple be replaced?
The fireplace has thermocouples and switches. The thermocouples should last for a long time. According to experts, a four-year check cycle is all that is needed.
Can I clean a thermocouple?
Yes, you can clean a thermocouple, but the task must be done with a light touch. Remove the thermocouple from the process assembly, using a steel wool or emery cloth, lightly clean the tip removing any build up.
How do you bypass a thermocouple?
To bypass the thermocouple:
- Move the tilts switch wire aside.
- Remove your thermocouple from the heater using an 8mm wrench.
- Pull the valve housing aside using your 13mm socket wrench.
- Remove the valve using your pliers.
- Put your thermocouple back into position.
What causes common thermocouple error?
Because a thermocouple measures temperature differentials, any temperature fluctuations around the reference junction (cold junction), which has the known temperature, result in an erroneous temperature reading. Solution: Make sure no fans or other sources of cooling or heating are located near the reference junction.
