When you are using your patio heater in the colder months, there is a chance that it might malfunction. This article will cover some helpful tips and tricks to get things back on track if this happens so that you can keep enjoying your time outdoors!
The patio heater thermocouple should be cleaned by shutting off the fuel supply, removing it from the pilot assembly, and then using a dry sponge or steel wool to clean away accumulated debris. A pencil eraser can help remove any extra difficult areas but cleaning chemicals must not be used because they are flammable.
I’ve never thought that a little thing like the thermocouple could cause so many issues and frustrations. The best way to avoid this is by following our steps in cleaning it carefully.
The most common issue with patio heaters has been associated with the thermocouple, which is why we wanted to share a detailed guide on how you can clean your own heater’s thermocouple at home it might just be enough!
Follow these steps and you’ll complete your project with flying colors.
What is the thermocouple in your patio heater?
In every natural gas or propane patio heater, you can find a thermocouple. This safety device is available within the product and will keep your home’s temperature safe!
The main functionality of this thermocouple is to help keep your patio heater lit at all times. The thermocouple sends a small electric current into the sensor, which can be found on the gas valve.
As you press the button, a whoosh sound will be heard as well as bright blue lights.
The thermocouple of your patio heater is made out of two different metals. Out of these two metal options, one will be subjected to heat and the other will not see much use until it gets too hot.
When you rub two different metals together, a voltage is generated. This process of using heat to create an electrical current is called the Seebeck effect or thermoelectricity – and it’s how your refrigerator makes cold air!
Along with time, this thermocouple is exposed to external environmental conditions. Certain patio heater models will have consistent exposure to outdoor elements such as the sun and wind which can affect how hot they get.
Just because you take precautions with a patio heater doesn’t mean that it won’t get unpleasantly dirty. That’s why there are limitations to using them undercover, but the right person can find ways around these issues.
To that end, it is important to understand how to clean your thermocouple. Keep on reading and you will be able to provide a clear understanding of the cleaning procedure.
What you need to clean a patio heater thermocouple
As you get ready for the cleaning process, make sure to have all of your necessary tools.
Here are the items that you are going to need to clean a patio heater:
- dry sponge
- steel wool
- screwdriver
- pencil eraser
With the help of this article, you can easily obtain supplies and start cleaning. You don’t need any special tools or to enlist an expert’s help.
Steps to follow for cleaning a patio heater thermocouple
One of the most important parts of having a successful patio heater is keeping it clean, and this includes cleaning your thermocouple. Follow these steps for how to correctly do so:
Follow these simple steps for the best and easiest way to get it done right!
- Turn off the gas to your heater before you attempt any repairs.
- A thermocouple is often located at the top of your patio heater. Make sure you take a look in any manuals that came with it before feeling around blindly for this important component.
- You now need to take a screwdriver and loosen the screws around that thermostat in order to remove it.
- Once all screws are removed, you can take out the thermocouple. You can easily pull and remove it from the pilot assembly with one hand as long as they don’t slip.
- Now, take a dry sponge or steel wool.
- When the thermocouple becomes dirty, you can use a dry sponge or steel wool to gently rub it. If using a wet towel instead of an abrasive side on your dry sponge and have difficulty cleaning off the residue from previous experiments, try soaking the cloth in soapy water before scrubbing down again with mild detergent.
- Cleaning the thermocouple is not a one-stop job. There’s soot trapped inside, and you need to make sure that it gets out before any more damage can be done.
- Now you can take the pencil eraser and start to clean areas located in between the threads of your thermocouple screw. These are just some tips that will help with connecting it with a patio heater!
Great job! You’re all done with your chores. It feels good, doesn’t it?
You can go ahead and reattach the thermocouple to your patio heater. You then might want to check whether it is working fine or not before you call a professional for help!
Protect your investment in a patio heater by investing in a cover. A simple, inexpensive purchase that can save you money and prevent wear-and-tear on the machine itself over time!
Tips for cleaning the thermocouple of a patio heater
The best way to clean your home is by using environmentally friendly cleaning products. You should also make sure that you have all the time in the world for bringing down a wall-mounted patio heater if it’s yours!
One of the best things about homemade cleaning solutions is that you can make them with ingredients found in your kitchen. Yet, when it comes to combating tough stains like oil and grease, there’s no substitute for a good old-fashioned bottle from the store!
You’ll want to set aside an hour or two for cleaning your patio heater. It’s important not to rush through it and do a thorough job, otherwise, you will have the same mess in no time at all!
What would happen if the thermocouple fails?
When the thermocouple fails, you should be aware of what will happen to your patio heater’s functionality.
The patio heater problem will now be easy to diagnose and fix on your own.
It’s not uncommon for thermocouple problems to arise with patio heaters. It can be frustrating, but there are some steps you can take if this does happen!
If you’re the owner of a patio heater, then it’s likely that at some point in your life, this issue will come up. The thermocouple on most heating units has an inverted V shape and is located near the light.
Thermocouples are the brains of patio heaters. They make sure that your fuel supply is always at a level where you can grill to your heart’s desire without running out!
If you notice that the pilot light is not retaining its perfect shape and condition, then go ahead with cleaning your thermocouple.
There are many patio heaters on the market, so it’s not always easy to find one that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
The thermocouple is the furnace part that helps regulate heat in your patio heater. If needed, you can clean it on your own to make sure everything’s working properly at home.
Make sure to clean your patio heater on a regular basis so that it will function without any problems.
After cleaning the thermocouple, make sure that there is no dust or dirt left around.
The patio heater is a fantastic way to extend your outdoor activities, which are limited by the cold weather. You should keep it away from any water sources and make sure there aren’t any insects near the thermocouple. So that you don’t have problems with wear and tear or an electrical fire!