Pilot will not stay lit on older Marey gas water heater models with standing pilot.

Safety first: Turn OFF gas before working on the pilot assembly. Follow all lighting instructions in the manual.

Steps:

• Clean pilot orifice: Gently clean the pilot burner with compressed air or a soft brush to remove dust and debris.
• Check flame: Relight the pilot per the manual. The flame should be steady and envelop the thermocouple tip.
• Replace thermocouple: If the pilot lights but goes out when you release the control knob, the thermocouple may be weak. Replace it with a compatible Marey thermocouple.
• Check for drafts: Ensure there are no strong drafts or exhaust fans blowing directly on the pilot area.

When to call a technician: If a new thermocouple does not solve the issue, the gas control valve may be defective and should be replaced professionally.