I would like to know how to clean the burner on a propane water heater .?

3 Comments

1. Dean C says:

   October 17, 2009 at 12:52 pm

   Most burners for a water heater are not very elaborate and are usually nothing more than an orifice under a flame spreader.

   But to clean it, remove the 3 lines under the control/thermostat. The pilot tube, the burner tube and the thermocouple. The pilot tube and the thermocouple are right handed threads but the burner tube could possibly be a left handed thread. Once they are disconnected, the burner assembly should easily slip out of the combustion chamber. If the burner is cast iron and has drilled ports, use a drill bit to run in to the holes and make sure they are clear. when finished, dump the trash out of the burner from the venturi. If it is the flame spreader type it is just a matter of making sure any openings are clear and no rust or debris is lodged in. Replace every thing as you removed it.
   When you hook it back up and lite the pilot, check for leaks with a soapy solution, Then turn on the main burner and check that fitting also.

   Good luck.
2. gejandsons says:

   October 17, 2009 at 12:52 pm

   Most have a small orifice in a hard to get to place. Follow the pipeing from the valve The burner is at the end.

   Good luck & God Bless
3. Joe S says:

   October 17, 2009 at 12:52 pm

   I agree with Dean C with one exception. If you need to clean the holes in the burner make sure to not use a drill motor to do it. Also be sure not to enlarge the holes, only clean them, as enlarging the holes will cause over firing of the water heater and shorten it’s lifespan significantly.