Propane Stove: Pilot Light Won't Stay Light Testing Thermopile

Apr 22, 2006 5 Replies

The pilot light on my propane cast iron stove won't stay light.It is an Empire Comfort/American Hearth product. I found a Troubleshootingt mfg. guide on line and it advises to test thermopile MVolt and gas valve MV readings. MY question is: what kind of electrical tester do I need to measure up to 325 millivolts or more. Is there an inexpensive and easy to use model? Thanks. John


Usually they are so cheap, they are just replaced not tested.

Today most digital multi-meters will do the job.

They probably run about $30 so it probably isn't a bad idea to have one around for when one fails. But before I replaced it, I'd give the area a shot with some compressed air.

I replaced mine fhe first two seasons

Good point. Dust or misalignment can keep the thermocouple from becoming hot enough to work.

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