Whirlpool Comprehensive Guide for Maintenance and Repair of Water Heaters

Replacing the Thermocouple

1.Remove the manifold assembly as directed previously.

2.Remove the retainer clip from the back of the two piece wire connector and remove the two piece wire connec- tor from the manifold door (Figure 25).

3.Pull the thermocouple from the pilot assembly (Figure 29).

IMPORTANT: Be careful not to bend or alter the position of the pilot assembly components.

4.Push the new thermocouple through the holes in the pi- lot bracket. Insert the thermocouple tube into the holes provided in the pilot assembly until it clicks into place.

5.Position the new thermocouple through the larger opening of the two piece wire connector (Figure 25). Be sure igniter wire is positioned through the small open- ing of the two piece wire connector.

6.See Replacing the Manifold Assembly.

Figure 25	Thermocouple	Other fittings
Two Piece Wire		not shown
Connector	Igniter Wire	for clarity
Assembly
Two Piece		Retainer Clip
Wire Connector
	Pilot Tube	Manifold
		Door
Figure 26
Thermocouple
Assembly

External Inspection & Cleaning of the Flame-trap

Although not likely to occur, if debris collects on the flame- trap, use a vacuum, compressed air, or a soft bristle brush to remove it. NOTE: If unable to inspect or clean the flame trap from underneath, follow the “Cleaning the Combustion Chamber and Flame-trap” instructions.

Figure 27

Flame-trap visual inspection

Flashlight

Mirror

Mirror

Cleaning the Combustion Chamber and Flame-trap

1.Follow procedure outlined in “Removing the Manifold Assembly”.

2.Use a vacuum cleaner/shop vac to remove all loose debris in the combustion chamber (Figure 28A). Use compressed air to clear any dust or debris that may have accumulated in the flame-trap.

3.Reassemble following the procedure under “Replacing the Manifold Assembly”.

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