atwood hot water heater, buildup on burner tube?

[msimmons]

I'm not real sure what the name of the area is that I am trying to describe, so will try my best.

When the hot water heater is heating, the flame is blowing out of a pipe about 1/2" in diameter, into a pipe about 2" in diameter.

At the end of the 1/2" pipe, there seems to be some buildup that glows like a cigar ash.

Is this "cigar ash" supposed to be there?


Let me know if what I am attempting to ask is making any sense or if there are any clues I can give to try to make sense

Thanks,
M

[Tha_Rooster]

It is probably rust falling down from the chimney, try vacuuming it out.

[chili's trip]

Originally Posted by msimmons

I'm not real sure what the name of the area is that I am trying to describe, so will try my best.

When the hot water heater is heating, the flame is blowing out of a pipe about 1/2" in diameter, into a pipe about 2" in diameter.

At the end of the 1/2" pipe, there seems to be some buildup that glows like a cigar ash.

Is this "cigar ash" supposed to be there?


Let me know if what I am attempting to ask is making any sense or if there are any clues I can give to try to make sense

Thanks,
M

That is the thermocouple wire that senses when the burner is lit. Without a flame the burner automatically shuts the gas off. Its a safety device. Good luck!