How to Change the Thermocouple on a Range

The thermocouple on a gas range controls the gas safety valve. When the controls for the range are switched on, the pilot flame grows larger to overlap the thermocouple. When the thermocouple senses the correct temperature it sends a signal to open the gas valve. A defective thermocouple may prevent the range from igniting. Buy a replacement at an appliance parts store or from the manufacturer of your particular model. Changing the thermocouple takes less than an hour.

Screwdriver set

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off all the range controls and wait for the appliance to cool. Close the gas valve in the pipe connected to the back of the range. The knob on the pipe valve turns clockwise to close.
- 2
  Pull the range forward from the wall to access the back panel.
- 3
  Remove the screws in the cover panel on the back of the range using a screwdriver. Take off the panel to expose the ignition assembly. The pilot light is at the top and the gas valve is near the bottom, with the thermocouple wired between them. The oval range burner is below the gas valve.
- 4
  Loosen the two screws that connect the thermocouple. Pull out the connector on the wire at each end of the thermocouple and remove the part.
- 5
  Hook the connector on each end of the new thermocouple under the screw head at the pilot and the gas valve. Tighten the two screws.
- 6
  Replace the cover panel with the screws.
- 7
  Slide the range back into position and open the external gas valve in the pipe connected to the appliance.

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