Pilot Outage
Bradford White Water Heater
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
If a Bradford White pilot will not stay lit after relighting, the thermocouple is the most likely culprit. Replacement is straightforward and inexpensive. Ensure the FVIR air screen is clear before relighting.
Affected Models
- Bradford White Defender
- Bradford White ICON
- Bradford White Atmospheric
- Bradford White RG2
- Bradford White Power Vent
Common Causes
- Failed or weak thermocouple (most common cause)
- Blocked FVIR (Flammable Vapor Ignition Resistant) air screen at the bottom
- Dirty pilot orifice producing a weak flame
- Failed gas control valve
- Drafts pulling the pilot flame off the thermocouple
How to Fix It
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Clean the FVIR air screen at the base.
All modern Bradford White gas heaters have a fine mesh screen at the bottom that draws combustion air. Lint and dust block this screen and starve the pilot of oxygen. Vacuum it carefully.
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Relight the pilot per the heater's procedure.
Set the gas control to PILOT, hold the button down, press the igniter, then continue holding the button for 60 seconds. Releasing too early can cause the pilot to go out even on a healthy unit.
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Replace the thermocouple.
Turn off the gas supply. Unscrew the thermocouple from both the gas valve and its bracket near the pilot. Install a Bradford White-compatible thermocouple, ensuring the tip sits inside the pilot flame.
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Check for drafts.
Draughts from a nearby door, window, or HVAC return can blow the pilot off the thermocouple. Make sure no fans are blowing directly at the heater. If it is in a tight closet, cracking the door open can sometimes help with combustion air.
When to Call a Professional
If a new thermocouple and a clean air screen do not stop pilot outages, a licensed plumber should diagnose the gas valve and combustion air system.