Question about American water heater thermocouple

by Leo
(Utah)

I have an American Proline direct vent water heater, size 50 gallons, with a problem. The gas burner won't ignite. I have checked for possible causes and found out that the heater's thermocouple is defective.

My American water heater is still under the warranty, so my question is; can I replace the thermocouple, or the American Co. requires the technician.

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Question about American water heater thermocouple

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Jun 13, 2010
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help
by: Anonymous

I did disconnected all the lines for the control and took 6 1/4 screws out of the face plate, but the face plate will not come off. Is it glued on?

May 28, 2010
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Thermocouple replacement
by: Nadin

Here is the step by step guide how to replace the thermocouple on your Proline American water heater. I am doing all my work around the home appliances, to save money off course.

In your case I would call American water heating company customer service and ask. If they say that your thermocouple is not under the warranty, order the part and do it yourself. If it is covered call the technician.

Anyhow, use this mini guide if you decide to replace the thermocouple by yourself.

- Take the part number from the thermocouple and order it through the American if the price is not the problem. If yes look for the similar aftermarket product. My suggestion: order the factory authorized thermocouple.

- Turn the gas supply off at the main gas shut-off valve. It is located close to your American water heater.

- Gas control valve knob should be in the OFF position.

- Remove the outer and manifold panels.

- Use the wrench and disconnect the thermocouple by turning it counterclockwise (left-hand thread). Do the same thing with the pilot tube and manifold tube (right-hand thread, rotate it clockwise). To release the igniter wire you just have to pull it from the igniter button.

- Carefully push down the above elements to release them from the gas control valve.

- On the other end, pull and release the thermocouple from the pilot assembly and remove it from the manifold assembly.

- Now, if you have ordered the pre-bent genuine thermocouple from American water heater company you just have to proceed to the installation. If your new thermocouple is aftermarket product and came coiled, than you have to bend it, to have the same shape as the thermocouple just removed. Be careful when bending so you won't damage the part.

- Route the new thermocouple through the manifold door opening in the same way as the old one.

- The other end of the thermocouple insert in the pilot assembly until fully seated. Do not use too much force to tighten the thermocouple. First use your hand to tighten it and after that a wrench to tighten 1/4 turn only.

- Bring the rest of the pilot assembly and access panels back, in reverse order.

- Open the gas and check for leaks.

- Use the instruction from the label found on your Proline heater plate, how to light the pilot. The pilot flame has to encircle the tip of the thermocouple.

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Question about American water heater thermocouple

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