Gas leak at water heater

[mikkeeh]

Noticed a propane odor outside today. I had the water heater on " electric". It appears to be the gas valve is not sealing correctly and letting a small amount of gas though. It's enough to sustain a small flame at the orifice. I assume the fix is replacing the valve?? Are they rebuild able? Common issue?
Suburban 6 gal.

[mikkeeh]

Hmmm...guess its not too common.

[Bama Rambler]

Sorry this went without an answer, but you're right about it not being very common.

They're not considered rebuildable. It's best to just replace the valve.

[Fred H.]

X2 with Bama Rambler. It has to be replaced with a new valve.

[Witch Doctor]

Originally Posted by mikkeeh

Noticed a propane odor outside today. I had the water heater on " electric". It appears to be the gas valve is not sealing correctly and letting a small amount of gas though. It's enough to sustain a small flame at the orifice. I assume the fix is replacing the valve?? Are they rebuild able? Common issue?
Suburban 6 gal.

Before you buy a new valve make sure you are getting the the correct voltage both on electric and gas. The valve is magnetic, so if your getting any voltage to it it will try and open. Check for any wires to it on the 12v. side and see if your getting anything if your not replace the valve. Also pull the 12 volt wires off and see if the flame go's away.

[Grampa Jim]

Originally Posted by gljurczyk

Before you buy a new valve make sure you are getting the the correct voltage both on electric and gas. The valve is magnetic, so if your getting any voltage to it it will try and open. Check for any wires to it on the 12v. side and see if your getting anything if your not replace the valve. Also pull the 12 volt wires off and see if the flame go's away.

Mikkeeh.....the above is the best advice you're getting. I've been in the AC/heating and appliance business for 40 years, and this advice is right-on. Perfect advice.

[B and B]

I am not a gas fitter or propane certified. But as Glen mentioned the valve can open with minimal voltage. Have you used the heater on propane lately?

[mikkeeh]

Originally Posted by B and B

I am not a gas fitter or propane certified. But as Glen mentioned the valve can open with minimal voltage. Have you used the heater on propane lately?

The heater is used on propane on a fairly regular basis. I am assuming the solenoid is not closing completely. Ill get the meter out and check the voltage. Thanks for the replies.

[mikkeeh]

UPDATE: Changed the regulator and problem is solved. BUT, I found another problem. When i switched over propane tanks...the indicator showed my other tank was empty (or no flow). which in incorrect. So on to the next project!!!!