Water Heaters - Good W. H.?

Doityourself.com community forum was created to provide answers to all questions related to home improvement and home repair. Doityourself community can help you find information about how-to topics on small fixes to large remodeling projects. With comprehensive how-to content and expertly moderated community forums DoItYourself.com makes it easy to tackle even the most complex home improvement projects.




View Full Version : Good W. H.?


Antonio
01-05-07, 11:50 AM
I decided that I can't have this problem of the pilot turning off all the time. Right now i have a A.O. Smith ProMax Xvc 40 100.. does anyone have any suggestion of a good water heater that will not give me any problems?
thank you.


jim-connor
01-06-07, 07:24 AM
Just like cars and trucks, everyone has their own opinions as to which brand they like best.
I like Bradford-White. Made in the USA with good quality control. It may cost a few dollars more, but it's worth it.

But, your current WH may just have a simple problem that could be easily fixed. Give us some more details.

Sharp Advice
01-06-07, 01:55 PM
Hello: Antonio

Pilot keeps turning off?

May be an easy problem to resolve. Try cleaning the pilot assembly and replacing the thermocouple. Most likely the thermocouple is too weak to produce the current needed to keep the gas valve opened or the thermocouple is simply burned out from normal usage.

Replacing it should resolve the problem. The thermocouple is the part the pilot flame is in contact with. The opposite end of the thermocouple is threaded into the gas valve. This end must be carefully unscrewed out of the gas valves control using a small open ended wrench.

Be sure the pilot flame is all blue and no yellow. If any yellow or doubt pilot flame is correct or maybe dusty, blow it out. Allow it to cool. Use can of computer keyboard canned air cleaner to blow out the entire assembly.

Relight pilot and note the result. Test the heater again note any changes. Also be sure the T-Couple is correctly installed in the pilot assembly. Only the tip of T-Couple or about top 1/3 should be heated. Must be glowing a bright cherry red color.

A thermocouple is generic except for it's length. Thermocouples are made in different lengths. Measure the removed part or take the one you remove to any hardware store and replace it with an exact duplicate in length. The parts cost is very nominal.

New thermocouple packages will contain complete do-it-yourself installation instructions and pictures. The package also contains additional clips of various assortments.

Not all the parts contained in the package with the thermocouple will be needed. The packages contain an assortment of holding parts and clips that are generic and designed to fit a wide variety of applications.

Install new T-Couple into pilot assembly exactly as the existing one is installed. Element end must be placed exactly the same height as the exiting one. Reinstall pilot assembly as found.

Gently thread nut end of T-Couple into gas control valve, starting threads by hand to insure threads will not cross thread and become damaged. Tighten nut snugly but do not over tighten. Tighten just snugly until bottoms out.

Web Site Host, Gas Appliances Topic Moderator & Multiple Forums Moderator. Energy Conservation Consultant & Natural Gas Appliance Diagnostics Technician.

Personal Driving Safety Reminder:
Buckle Up & Drive Safely. "The Life You Save, May Be Your Own."