Kenmore
Thermocouple Failure or Weak Pilot Flame
Kenmore gas water heater pilot will not stay lit (standing pilot models, no electronic display)
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Faulty thermocouple, dirty pilot orifice, misaligned pilot flame, weak gas supply, defective gas control valve
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Turn gas control knob to OFF and wait several minutes before working near the burner. If you smell strong gas, evacuate and call the gas utility.
- Clean pilot assembly: Remove the burner access cover. Use compressed air to blow dust from the pilot and burner area.
- Inspect pilot flame: Light the pilot per instructions. The flame should be blue and envelop the upper 3/8–1/2 inch of the thermocouple. If weak or yellow, clean the pilot orifice.
- Tighten thermocouple connection: Turn gas OFF. Gently tighten the thermocouple nut at the gas control valve.
- Replace thermocouple: If the pilot still will not stay lit, replace the thermocouple with a compatible Kenmore part, routing it exactly as the original.
- Gas valve check: If a new thermocouple does not solve the issue, the gas control valve may be defective and should be replaced by a qualified technician.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
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