Kenmore Elite Gas water heater Parts — Browse All Models

What to do when the pilot won't stay lit on your Kenmore Elite gas water heater

If your pilot light will not stay lit, it is important that you take steps to fix it immediately. Several problems can shut off the pilot-a failed gas supply, lack of combustion air due to a clogged vent or a vent draft that blows out the pilot. A missing, crooked or blocked vent draft hood can cause a vent draft. Also, if the vent pipe cap on the top of the vent pipe on the roof is blocked or missing, wind can go down the pipe and blow the pilot out.

Another common problem causing the pilot to go out or not stay lit is a failed thermocouple (pilot generator). The thermocouple in your water heater keeps the pilot lit by sending a low current electrical signal to keep the gas valve open. If the thermocouple fails, it doesn't send the signal to the gas valve and the gas valve shuts off, extinguishing the pilot.

When lighting the pilot, you press and hold the pilot button to supply gas to the pilot until the pilot heats up enough to generate the signal to keep the gas valve open on its own. If the pilot light goes out when you release the button, you'll likely need to replace the thermocouple because it isn't sending the signal to the gas valve to keep the gas valve open.

Maintenance tips for your Kenmore Elite gas water heater

• Flush tank sediment every 6 months. It is recommended that you drain the tank and flush sediment out of the tank every six months. Sediment can build up and interfere with water heating if you don't regularly drain and flush the tank.
• Visually inspect the vent system annually. Look for obstructions or damage to the vent system. Make sure that ventilation air paths aren't obstructed.
• Check piping systems for leaks yearly. Repair or replace any leaking pipes or water fittings.
• Annually inspect gas lines and the burner for damage or corrosion. Have a service technician repair any damaged gas lines or replace the gas burner if it's damaged.