Gas Water Heater Keeps Shutting Off

Is your gas water heater acting up? Are you tired of taking cold showers?

Most, if not all, American households have gas water heaters. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, water heaters consume 14-18% of an average American household’s utility costs.

Before, water heaters relied solely on coal. Now, 48% of houses use natural gas for heating, 45% use electricity, and 6% burn propane or oil.

As more houses are built, the demand for water heaters soars. The water heater industry is even expected to reach $5.09 billion by 2029.

While water heaters are built to last, constant use eventually results in wear and tear. If your water heater keeps shutting off after five minutes, you might want to consider the following problems.

A Faulty Thermopile

A faulty thermopile is a common culprit behind a gas water heater repeatedly shutting off. The thermopile is a sensor that generates electrical voltage when heated by the pilot light.

This voltage is essential for keeping the gas valve open and the burner lit. However, if the thermopile malfunctions or becomes too worn out over time, it may fail to generate enough voltage, causing the gas valve to close and the burner to shut off.

Dirty Pilot Burner

Another potential issue that can cause your gas water heater to shut off is a dirty pilot burner. The pilot burner is responsible for igniting the gas that heats the water in your heater.

It may struggle to produce a strong, steady flame if it becomes dirty or clogged with debris. As a result, the thermocouple—the component responsible for sensing the pilot flame—may not receive enough heat to keep the gas valve open, leading to frequent shutdowns.

Dirty or Clogged Air Inlet

The air inlet is crucial in supplying oxygen to the gas burner for combustion. If the air inlet becomes dirty or clogged with dust, lint, or other debris, it can restrict the airflow to the burner, causing the flame to sputter or go out entirely.

When the burner flame is weak or extinguished, the thermocouple may signal the gas valve to shut off as a safety measure, preventing the risk of gas leaks or carbon monoxide buildup. Detecting this issue can be hard for untrained eyes, so it’s best to ask an experienced contractor to check it.

A Bad Gas Valve

In some cases, a malfunctioning gas valve may be the culprit behind a gas water heater repeatedly shutting off. The gas valve controls the gas flow to the burner, regulating the tank’s water temperature.

If the gas valve is defective or failing, it may intermittently close, cutting off the fuel supply to the burner and causing the water heater to shut down unexpectedly. Replacing a faulty gas valve requires expertise and should be handled by a qualified professional.

Get Help From an Arizona Plumber

Dealing with a gas water heater that keeps shutting off can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. Fortunately, you don’t have to tackle the problem alone. If you’re having issues with your gas water heater in Arizona, you must seek help from a licensed plumber specializing in water heater repair and maintenance.

Call the Plumber Guy for Expert Help

At The Plumber Guy, we understand the importance of a reliable hot water supply, especially in the Arizona climate. Our team of experienced plumbers is equipped to diagnose and repair various gas water heater issues, from faulty thermopiles to dirty pilot burners and beyond.

With prompt, professional service and transparent pricing, we’re committed to restoring your hot water quickly and efficiently. Our genuine intention to help Arizona homeowners turn their houses into comfortable homes has kept us running since day one.

Request a Free Estimate Now

Don’t let a malfunctioning gas water heater disrupt your comfort and convenience. If you’re tired of cold showers and frequent shutdowns, contact The Plumber Guy today for expert water heater repair services in Arizona.

Call us now to schedule an appointment or request a free estimate online. We’re here to help you enjoy reliable hot water year-round.