Are you facing the chills with a ProCom heater that's giving you the cold shoulder?
We know the feeling—that sinking sensation when your trusted heater decides to play coy during winter.
But don't break out the extra blankets just yet!
A handful of common culprits could be stealing the heat, many of which you can fix yourself.
In the following article, we'll dive into the most likely reasons your ProCom heater is not lighting up and guide you through getting it back on the job.
Why Won’t My ProCom Heater Light Up?
Without further ado, let’s explore some common reasons why your ProCom heater won't light up and what you can do about it.
Gas Supply Is Turned Off
The most basic yet often overlooked reason is the gas supply being turned off.
Locate the gas supply valve and ensure it's in the "On" position. Typically, it’s a lever or knob near the gas line.
Checking the basics before diving into more complex diagnostics is always a good idea.
Issues With Gas Line
Another reason why your ProCom heater won't light up is because there may be issues with the gas line.
Check to ensure that the gas line is connected correctly and that there are no signs of leaks.
If there are any issues with the gas line, you may need to call a professional to come and fix the problem.
Ignitor Is Positioned Wrong Or Broken
If you're hearing a clicking sound without a flame or not hearing a clicking sound at all, the ignitor might be the issue.
First, check its placement. The ignitor must be close enough to the gas outlet to create a spark that ignites the gas.
If it's broken, you'll likely need a new one. Replacement parts are usually brand-specific.
Clogged Burner Orifice
If your heater turns on but quickly turns off or the flame seems weaker than usual, a clogged burner orifice might be to blame.
Begin by switching off the heater and cutting off the gas supply.
After it's sufficiently cool, carefully disassemble the necessary parts. Use a thin wire or compressed air to clean the orifice carefully.
Finish by testing the unit to ensure its optimal functionality.
Related article: How To Clean A Procom Heater
Faulty Thermostat
If you've set the thermostat to a specific temperature and the heater isn’t responding, you might have a faulty thermostat.
Try setting the thermostat to the highest setting to test.
If the heater still doesn't light up, you'll likely need to replace the thermostat.
When considering a replacement, consult your manual to guarantee the new part aligns perfectly with your specific ProCom model.
Broken Thermocouple Or Regulator
The thermocouple is like a safety guard—it checks if the pilot flame is on. If it's not working right, it might stop gas from coming in.
On the other side, the regulator makes sure the gas pressure is just right.
If your pilot light keeps going out or doesn't turn on at all, the thermocouple might be the problem.
But if you see the flame change size a lot or hear a hissing sound, the regulator could be acting up.
If your thermocouple is having issues, you usually need to replace it.
For problems with the regulator, it's a good idea to call a technician unless you know what you're doing.
How To Replace ProCom Heater Thermocouple?
When your ProCom heater won't light up, replacing the thermocouple might be the answer. Let's walk through the steps to do this.
Step 1: Safety First
Safety is the most important thing. Turn off the heater and unplug it.
Make sure the gas is also turned off. Then, wait for the heater to cool down before you touch anything.
Step 2: Prepare The Workspace
Before diving in, ensure the vicinity around your heater is clear, granting you enough room for the task.
Clear any items around your heater. Prepare your tools: a wrench, a screwdriver, and the new thermocouple.
Step 3: Locate The Thermocouple
The thermocouple is near the pilot light because it checks if the flame is on. Your heater's manual can help you find it, sometimes with a helpful picture.
Step 4: Remove The Old Thermocouple
Use your wrench to gently loosen the nut holding the thermocouple at the gas valve. Take off any screws or brackets holding it in place.
Then, pull the thermocouple out.
Step 5: Install The New Thermocouple
Put the new thermocouple where the old one was. Make sure the tip is close to the pilot light so it can check the flame.
Attach it back to the gas valve and put the screws or brackets back in place.
Step 6: Test The New Thermocouple
Turn the gas back on and try to light the pilot light.
If it stays on, the new thermocouple is working well. If not, double-check if everything is in the right place.
Step 7: Reassemble The Heater
If you removed any covers or panels from the heater, put them back. Then, plug the heater back in.
Step 8: Safety Check
Smell around for any gas. If you think there's a leak or if you smell gas, turn everything off and call an expert.
Watch this short video so you can easily visualize the steps above.
Signs You Need To Replace Your ProCom Heater
Here are some signs that indicate it's time to replace your ProCom heater:
- Age can be a deciding factor. Newer models might offer better efficiency and performance if your ProCom heater is over ten years old.
- Constant repairs are a red flag. If you're regularly calling a repairman due to frequent breakdowns, your heater might be nearing the end of its useful life.
- Unusual noises from your heater, like banging, popping, or rattling, suggest potential severe problems and could hint at an impending breakdown.
- A decline in performance is telling. If your home isn't as warm as it used to be, your heater might no longer meet your heating needs.
- Rising energy bills can also be an indicator. Heaters often become less efficient as they age, resulting in higher costs for you.
Also worth the read: My Dyna Glo Propane Heater Won’t Light
When To Seek Professional Help?
If you have tried all the troubleshooting steps and your ProCom heater still won't light, it may be time to seek professional help.
Below are scenarios indicating that it's time to get professional assistance for your ProCom heater:
- You tried all the steps above.
- You hear unusual noises from your heater.
- You smell gas.
- You're hesitant or unsure about repairing the heater yourself.
Wrapping Things Up
By understanding the potential reasons why your ProCom heater isn't lighting up, you're well on your way to restoring that cozy atmosphere in your home.
However, there comes a time when it's best to seek expert advice or even consider a replacement, especially when safety concerns arise.
The key is knowing when to DIY and call in the professionals.
Did you find this article helpful? Let us know if there's any other way we can assist you further!