How do you test a thermopile voltage?
How do you test a thermopile voltage?
We can test the voltage that the thermopile is giving off by using our Digital Multimeter. You will want to use your multimeter to test your thermopile leads. They are connected to the gas control valve, so the very first thing we should do is to locate the valve.
How much voltage should a thermopile put out?
A healthy thermopile in an open circuit test will read between 650 to 850 millivolts or somewhere in between. If the open-circuit test reads below 400 millivolts, then the thermopile likely requires service or replacement.
How do I know if my thermopile is bad?
Just like the thermocouple, the thermopile can be read with a multimeter to check if it’s the cause of the problem. Three hundred millivolts or higher voltage is a sign of a good thermopile. A reading below 300 millivolts would require you to replace the thermopile.
What causes thermopile voltage low?
So, this is what the thermopile voltage low error means. The error means the thermocouples in the collection cannot generate enough current to power the control panel that we mentioned. If this happens, the controller system will stop working, and you will see an error message on the water heater.
How do you measure millivolts on a thermocouple?
Turn the appliance on and place a crocodile clip from the multimeter to the side of the thermocouple. Attach the other crocodile clip on the screw that extends out of the side of the adapter. The reading should be within 12 millivolts and 15 millivolts.
How many mV should a thermocouple read?
Thermocouples designed for residential gas appliances, such as fireplaces, water heaters and furnaces, are made for 30 Millivolts. The reading should be between 25 and 30. Anything under or hovering around the 20 millivolts mark means the thermocouple needs to be replaced.
How many millivolts does a good thermopile produce?
A thermopile is used for a standing pilot system and generally produces around 600-750 millivolts.