How To Clean A Thermocouple On Patio Heaters? 4 Easy Steps!

Do you know how to clean a thermocouple on patio heaters? Remove the thermocouple from the pilot section of a patio heater and brush any collected junk out using a ball of steel wool, sponge, or any other harsh substance.

To be fair, keeping a propane patio heater may necessitate some effort and knowledge of the heating system’s principles to get the most out of the unit’s performance and utility. 

how to clean a thermocouple on patio heaters

Since patio heaters raise the local air temperature, they create a pleasant setting throughout the chilly fall or winter. You must understand how to keep them in good working order. So, if you’re interested in this article and want to learn everything in detail, stay in touch with us at the end. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

 

What Is A Patio Heater Thermocouple?

Have you ever wondered what thermocouple is in your patio heaters? Anyways, the patio heater’s thermocouple is a thermoelectric device or temperature sensor. It’s constructed composed of 2 segments of copper tubing, each about the size of a soft drink husk. That sensor comprises two different metals strands coupled to a thermocouple thermostat placed at one terminal.The issue only with the patio heater is that this is in maintenance for most of the year. Dirt, smoke, and other debris might block the copper piping due to this not being utilized for most of the year, affecting the heater’s capacity to illuminate. This is a significant issue since it will most likely not ignite when you require it. Mostly it happens that if thermocouples are not in use, they become James, and due to which your pilot light won’t light, and at this time, you just need to clean them. 

 

How To Clean A Thermocouple On Propane Patio Heaters? 

You may clean the thermocouple on your patio heaters in a variety of methods, but the ones listed here are by far the most simple. Stop worrying about how to clean a thermocouple on patio heaters. Before starting, make sure you have all of the appropriate equipment; consider following step-by-step deep cleaning:

 

Step #1. Find the thermocouple

Turn off the gas power supply first you do anything about it. Remove the thermocouple first from the circuit board using your wrench. The thermocouple should then be removed from its attachment near the patio heater pilot light.

 

Step #2. Inspect the thermocouple for any problems

Once you’ve removed the thermocouple, it seems time to clean away the smoke grow. The patio heater’s ability to monitor heat dissipation or growth is hampered by carbon build-up within the thermocouple. While you’re at it, inspect the terminals of the thermocouple for any rust that might hinder electricity from accessing the heater’s pilot light.

 

Step #3. Start cleanup

It’s the exact moment to cleanse the thermocouple. To eliminate excess rust from the thermocouple’s ends, rub them with a little piece of sandpaper. Scrub the terminals of the thermocouple till they show no signs of rust. Then, using a clean microfibre cloth, completely erase any rust residue that the sandpaper failed to remove. Wipe the thermocouple carefully with the rough surface of steel wool and sponge to effectively remove smoke and corrosion. Harsh detergents may be tempting, but they include combustible compounds, so avoid them.Look for corrosion accumulation in the crevices while cleansing. You could spot them in between strands of the bolts that hold the thermocouple together. Because the fastening bolts can be difficult to access and wipe, it may be more practical to erase pencils to remove the dust, dirt, and charcoal from the line. When you’re done, the thermocouple should be immaculate. So, ensure to remove the eraser’s residues with a damp towel.

 

Step #4. Reassemble the thermocouple

It’s time to rejoin the thermocouple to that same pilot assembly process once you’re pleased with its cleanliness. Reassemble the thermocouple using the same cautious procedure you used to dismantle it. Power on the heaters and examine and see whether the pilot light is about to ensure that it’s all working correctly. Do you have issues? Read the directions in the manufacturer’s handbook.You might also want to learn how to fix common problems of a kerosene heater.

 

What Is The Function Of A Thermocouple In A Patio Heater?

Patio heaters won’t light up if the thermocouple is dusty; it’s mean without a thermocouple, you can’t use the heater. They’re are extremely thin and weak, although they are a crucial element of a heating unit that can be damaged if not dusted correctly. Thermocouples are temperature-measuring devices for liquids and gases. They are available in many shapes and dimensions and measure temperatures. A thermocouple on a gas patio heater is a protection system. It works by providing a simple electrical flow to a sensor located near the patio heater’s gas valve, which keeps the heater pilot lighted.

 

It’s A Wrap!

After reading this article, we hope that you all understand how to clean a thermocouple on patio heaters. We have discussed only four steps to help you clean your patio heaters thermocouple easily. Keep in mind that thermocouples become blocked because of dust; that’s why they need a proper cleaning for their performance. Thank you, friends, for being with us at the end! If you have time, please read how long does a pool heater last and where to hang garage heater.