Well, water heater when turned to PILOT will ignite, but shuts down as soon as you try to turn the knob off pilot to your heat setting. I've researched some and see most likely thermocouple to replace. Simple enough, $13 Home Depot(And yes I asked how to and they literally read directions on the new package). Now dealing with gas and I'm a newb at most home repairs so I want to make dam sure I'm safe. Anyone out there do this professionally or someone that can give me some pointers. Here's my plan from watching vids:

Turn off gas at switch in front of tank
Remove all lines(I believe there are 3?) attached to the status box(where knob is to control heat, igniter, etc)
Pull burner out and replace thermocouple
Reattach all lines
Turn gas on and spray those connections with soap water to said previously removed lines to make sure there are no bubbles(meaning leaking gas)

Thanks a ton! Thomas 979-257-9796

What brand? How old is W/H?

It's a Kenmore, I assume it's still original when house was built which would be 2004? 12 years old? We have 2 of the same, one still going strong. Luckily for us I guess they just work together b/c we can still get hot water in all parts of the house(2 story), just takes a while when cold out.

You shouldn't have to remove the main gas flex from the wall to heater. Just the mail burner tube and pilot tube coming from the valve to undermneath the unit.

There should be a valve at the appliance as well, not have to turn off everything at the tank. If there's not, while I had it turned off at the tank, I'd put a valve at the floor/wall before the flex hose.

Thomas I'd be glad to help if close, or talk thru it on the phone/video.

Also have tape or putty/thread sealer for it before you start, and don't get it on the beveled flange edge, just threads