I've been struggling with a gas water heater in the townhouse for over 5 days now... it's Whilpool 30gal gas burner from 2003 - not in a bad shape, but lately very problematic...

It started losing pilot flame out of the blue - I've tracked over there twice to light it backup but I knew there must be another problem. Finally called the 1-800 number and spoke to someone who advised me that the warranty is over but they can send me a kit for free to solve the 'pilot light not staying on problem'... surely I accepted.

The kit arrived the next day - with 4 pages of instructions. It took quite a bit to get the replacement in but at the end the heater had a brand new 'innards' down in the firebox so I felt good about it. The flame stayed on, while I was there... I was hopeful...

Two days later - wouldn't you know it another phone call. Sure enough the pilot light is out again...

I'm really at a loss as to what could be going on. I guess it's possible that the whole gas valve/regulator is acting up and it's time for a new water heater.

One thing that's puzzling me is this: the instruction manual for the kit installation went into great pains to insure that the firebox is well sealed. So if the firebox is sealed so well, how does it get fresh air for the flame to stay on?! Maybe the fresh air supply vent (wherever that is) is clogged? It might make sense, since it's having the same problem with the new kit in place...

Any advice would be welcome.

Thanks,
James

__________________
1987 Mercedes 300SDL; SOLD
1985 Mercedes 300D; SOLD
2006 Honda Pilot - wife's ride; 122K;
1995 Toyota Land Cruiser - 3X locked; 182K