A.O. Smith Propane Hot Water heater dead

[SandyB]

Hello all….
I have an A.O. Smith (Model# GVR 50 301 50 gal propane hot water heater)
I want to take a shower, and no hot water.
I checked the hot water heater and found that there was no status light.
I followed the instructions in attempt to re-light the pilot. After 8 - 10 times I gave up.
It has a Honeywell Controller.
I am at a complete loss as how to proceed.
Could it be the “thermocouple” or “thermopile” (not sure which it it).
I have found a lot of info online about how to test the thermocouple when the pilot is lit, but nothing on how to test with no flame.
Could it be something other than the thermocouple?
When I first hold the red button in and hit the igniter, I hear a “faint rush” if you will, like it is going to light, but thereafter nothing.
I have plenty of propane.
Any help or advice would be highly appreciated.
Thanks!
Sandy

 

[Fitter30]

Thermocouple or thermopile need a flame to test them out. Could be as simple as a dirty pilot or wire going to pilot sparking where it shouldn't.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Master Plumber Mark]

Be careful with the propane.... you are probably going to want to get a new honeywell control
and how old is this unit??

 

[SandyB]

Be careful with the propane.... you are probably going to want to get a new honeywell control
and how old is this unit??

It was built 8/14/2013….never had a lick of trouble with it at all.
I am just not sure where to start.
Fortunately it is at a property that is lightly used.

 

[Master Plumber Mark]

WE never fool with propane heaters,,,, if someone calls us on one we just tell them that the liability is
too great to fool with them... the propane gas stays low to the floor and when people try to relight them
they have accidents..... Just better to replace it than to risk messing around