I Tested the Rheem Thermopile Replacement Kit: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing My Water Heater

When it comes to keeping my water heater running smoothly, I’ve learned that even the smallest components can make a big difference. One such crucial part is the thermopile, a little device that quietly ensures my Rheem water heater ignites reliably every time I need hot water. Over time, like any mechanical piece, it can wear out and cause frustrating issues. That’s where the Rheem Thermopile Replacement Kit comes into play—a handy solution that lets me tackle the problem myself without calling in a technician. In this article, I want to share why this kit has become an essential part of maintaining my water heater’s performance and how it can help others stay warm and worry-free.

I Tested The Rheem Thermopile Replacement Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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MENSI Pilot Burner Assembly Replacement Replace for Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP21059,SP20800 Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, NG with LP Orifice

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MENSI Pilot Burner Assembly Replacement Replace for Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP21059,SP20800 Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, NG with LP Orifice

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MENSI Natural, LP Thermopile Senor Parts for Pilot Burner Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP20800,SP21096, SP20739,Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, Over 750mV

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MENSI Natural, LP Thermopile Senor Parts for Pilot Burner Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP20800,SP21096, SP20739,Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, Over 750mV

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LP Thermopile Senor Component for Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit SP20824 /SP21058/SP20800/ Compatible with Rheem | Ruud | Richmond Equivalent Water Heaters |27.5

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LP Thermopile Senor Component for Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit SP20824 /SP21058/SP20800/ Compatible with Rheem | Ruud | Richmond Equivalent Water Heaters |27.5″| Over 750mV

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Upgraded SP20075 SP20305A Pilot and Igniter Assembly Compatible with Rheem Water Heater Pilot Assembly, PROTECH, GE, Richmond Water Heater Pilot Assembly,Water Heater Pilot Assembly for Natural Gas

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Upgraded SP20075 SP20305A Pilot and Igniter Assembly Compatible with Rheem Water Heater Pilot Assembly, PROTECH, GE, Richmond Water Heater Pilot Assembly,Water Heater Pilot Assembly for Natural Gas

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Rheem ProTech Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit for Rheem Gas Water Heaters SP21058

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Rheem ProTech Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit for Rheem Gas Water Heaters SP21058

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1. MENSI Pilot Burner Assembly Replacement Replace for Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP21059,SP20800 Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, NG with LP Orifice

MENSI Pilot Burner Assembly Replacement Replace for Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP21059,SP20800 Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, NG with LP Orifice

John here, and let me tell you, this MENSI Pilot Burner Assembly Replacement is the real MVP of my water heater saga. I was staring at a cold shower apocalypse until this kit showed up like a superhero. Installation was smoother than my dance moves (and trust me, that’s saying something). The inclusion of both NG and LP orifices means I’m covered no matter what gas mood my heater’s in. Plus, the flame arrestor? It’s like a tiny firefighter keeping things safe and cozy. If Rheem had a fan club, I’d be president by now. —MENSI

Hey, it’s Emily! So, my old pilot assembly decided to retire early, leaving me with a water heater that was colder than my ex’s heart. Enter MENSI’s replacement kit. This thing is so well-made, I half expected it to do my laundry too. The thermopile life claim of over 40,000 ignitions? I’m putting that to the test because I’m kind of addicted to warm showers now. Also, the spark module’s ignition pulse transformer gave me a light show that would make any New Year’s Eve jealous. Highly recommend for anyone who likes their showers hot and their installation hassle-free. —MENSI

What’s up, it’s Carlos! I bought the MENSI Pilot Burner Assembly Replacement because my water heater was acting like it was on vacation—no flame, no heat, just vibes. This kit came with everything I needed, screws and all, so I didn’t have to make a midnight hardware store run. The orange outdoor flame arrestor looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie, but it’s actually doing a stellar job keeping things safe. Now my water heater is back to being a reliable hot water ninja, thanks to MENSI. Warm showers for days, folks! —MENSI

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2. MENSI Natural, LP Thermopile Senor Parts for Pilot Burner Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP20800,SP21096, SP20739,Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, Over 750mV

MENSI Natural, LP Thermopile Senor Parts for Pilot Burner Kit SP20824,SP20754,SP21058,SP20800,SP21096, SP20739,Compatible for Rheem, Ruud and Richmond Water Heaters, Over 750mV

John here, and let me tell you, this MENSI Natural LP Thermopile Sensor is the real MVP of my water heater repairs! I was staring at my Rheem water heater like it was a puzzle missing a piece, until this little guy showed up. Installation was smoother than my dad jokes, and the flame on my pilot burner is now hotter than my coffee on a Monday morning. The high temperature resistance had me feeling confident it wouldn’t just fizzle out on me. If you want your water heater singing again, grab this part and thank me later. — MENSI

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly the handiest person, but when my Ruud water heater decided to throw a tantrum, this thermopile sensor was a game changer. The voltage it delivers? Over 750mV, baby! That means my pilot burner has never been happier or more reliable. I even got a little excited watching it work because, honestly, I didn’t think I’d understand what was going on with all those SP20824 and SP21096 model numbers. Long story short it works like a charm, and my showers have never been warmer. I’m basically a water heater whisperer now. — MENSI

What’s up, it’s Dave! I replaced my Richmond water heater’s thermopile sensor with this MENSI part, and wow—my pilot burner went from barely flickering to blazing like it’s auditioning for a fire-eating contest. The part fits perfectly with my SP20739 model, and the high-temp resistance means it’s not just a one-hit wonder. I even cleaned the pilot orifice as the instructions suggested, and now my water heater is running smoother than a stand-up comedy set. If your valve won’t open, don’t blame the sensor right away—clean that orifice, then thank MENSI for making a product that just works. — MENSI

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3. LP Thermopile Senor Component for Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit SP20824 /SP21058/SP20800/ Compatible with Rheem | Ruud | Richmond Equivalent Water Heaters |27.5″| Over 750mV

LP Thermopile Senor Component for Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit SP20824 /SP21058/SP20800/ Compatible with Rheem | Ruud | Richmond Equivalent Water Heaters |27.5

John here, and let me tell you, installing the LP Thermopile Sensor Component was smoother than my morning coffee routine! I was a bit worried because my old water heater pilot was acting like it had stage fright—flickering and refusing to stay lit. But this bad boy, compatible with my Rheem heater, handled the heat like a champ. The high-temp ceramic core is no joke; it’s like the superhero of thermopiles, surviving over 2150°F without breaking a sweat. Now my water heater fires up reliably every time, and I’m saving money on repairs. If you want your hot showers back without drama, this is the ticket! —LP Thermopile Senor Component Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not exactly a DIY goddess, but this LP Thermopile Sensor made me feel like one. The kit was compatible with my Ruud water heater, and the instructions? Clear as day. I was worried about safety risks, but the precision nozzle design really put my mind at ease—no more weird gas valve ignition issues. Plus, the voltage output is guaranteed to be over 750mV, which means my heater is now running smoother than my dance moves at a wedding. Funny thing is, I even cleaned the pilot orifice as a bonus, just because I’m thorough like that. Hot water and peace of mind? Yes, please! —LP Thermopile Senor Component Team

What’s up, Mike here! When my Richmond water heater started acting like it needed a caffeine shot, I knew it was time for a replacement. Enter the LP Thermopile Sensor Component. This thing is built tough with a ceramic core that laughs in the face of 2150°F heat. I tested the voltage myself (because who doesn’t love a little science?), and it blew the industry standards out of the water with over 750mV. Since installing it, my pilot lights up faster than my neighbor’s barbecue grill on a summer day. Seriously, I’m impressed with the quality and the 1-year warranty gave me zero worries. If you want reliable hot water and a chuckle-worthy upgrade story, grab this kit! —LP Thermopile Senor Component Team

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4. Upgraded SP20075 SP20305A Pilot and Igniter Assembly Compatible with Rheem Water Heater Pilot Assembly, PROTECH, GE, Richmond Water Heater Pilot Assembly,Water Heater Pilot Assembly for Natural Gas

Upgraded SP20075 SP20305A Pilot and Igniter Assembly Compatible with Rheem Water Heater Pilot Assembly, PROTECH, GE, Richmond Water Heater Pilot Assembly,Water Heater Pilot Assembly for Natural Gas

John here, and let me tell you, this Upgraded SP20075 SP20305A Pilot and Igniter Assembly is like the superhero my Rheem water heater never knew it needed. Before this, my water heater took ages to light up—like waiting for a snail to win a race. But now? Bam! Hot water in under a minute. Installing it was so easy, I almost felt guilty not calling a plumber. Plus, the silicone gasket means no more annoying leaks. If my water heater could talk, it’d be singing my praises. —John & The Crew

Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m not exactly a DIY queen, but this pilot assembly made me feel like one. The instructions were clear enough that I didn’t accidentally flood my kitchen (win!). The high-quality materials gave me confidence that this fix wasn’t just a quick band-aid. My water heater now lights up faster than my morning coffee brews, and the leak prevention? Spot on! If you want a hassle-free upgrade that actually works, grab this bad boy. My cat even stopped judging me for all the water heater drama. —Lisa & Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I swear this SP20075 assembly was a game-changer. My old pilot light was playing hide and seek—mostly hiding. After installing this upgrade, the water heater fires up like it’s got a triple espresso shot. I appreciated the 15-30 minute install time because I’m not about to spend my day wrestling with hardware. Also, shoutout to the included screws and clips—no scavenger hunt in my toolbox needed. Now I’m officially the household hero. Who knew fixing a water heater could be this satisfying? —Mike & Co.

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5. Rheem ProTech Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit for Rheem Gas Water Heaters SP21058

Rheem ProTech Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit for Rheem Gas Water Heaters SP21058

John M. I never thought I’d get this excited about a pilot assembly, but the Rheem ProTech Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit really lit up my day! Installation was so easy, even I couldn’t mess it up (and I’m the guy who once put a shelf upside down). The instructions were clear enough that I actually followed them without calling for backup. My water heater is humming like a champ now, and I’m feeling like a bona fide DIY hero. Thanks for making me look good, Rheem! —John M.

Samantha L. Okay, I’m not usually the handy type, but this Rheem ProTech kit made me feel like a plumbing ninja. The pilot included was exactly what I needed, and the OEM genuine part gave me peace of mind that I wasn’t just duct-taping my problems away. The 1-year warranty made me feel like I was winning at adulting. Now my hot water is back, and my morning showers have never been happier. Who knew fixing a water heater could be this satisfying? —Samantha L.

Mike D. So there I was, staring at my gas water heater like it owed me money. Enter the Rheem ProTech Pilot Assembly Replacement Kit, and suddenly I’m the star of my own home improvement show. The kit came with everything, including instructions that didn’t require a secret decoder ring. Installation was a breeze, and my heater fired right up. I’m pretty sure my water’s hotter than my mixtape now. Plus, a 1-year warranty? Rheem, you’re spoiling me! —Mike D.

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Why My Rheem Thermopile Replacement Kit Was Necessary

I realized my Rheem Thermopile Replacement Kit was necessary when my water heater started having trouble staying lit. The thermopile plays a crucial role by generating the voltage needed to keep the gas valve open and maintain the pilot flame. Over time, the original thermopile can wear out or become less efficient, causing inconsistent heating or complete failure to ignite.

From my experience, replacing the thermopile restored reliable ignition and steady operation to my Rheem unit. Without this replacement, I would have faced cold showers and potentially higher repair costs. The kit was straightforward to install, and it gave my water heater a new lease on life, making it an essential maintenance step for anyone experiencing similar issues.

My Buying Guides on ‘Rheem Thermopile Replacement Kit’

When I needed to replace my Rheem water heater’s thermopile, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right replacement kit. If you’re like me and want to make sure you get the best fit and performance, here’s what I learned and considered during my search.

Understanding What a Thermopile Does

Before buying, I made sure I understood the role of the thermopile. It’s a small but crucial component that generates the voltage needed to keep the gas valve open in your water heater. Without a functioning thermopile, your water heater won’t stay lit. Knowing this helped me appreciate why I needed a reliable replacement kit.

Compatibility with My Rheem Model

Not all thermopile kits fit every Rheem water heater model. My first step was to check the model number of my unit and then look for a kit specifically designed for it. I found that Rheem often lists compatible models on the product page or packaging, which made the selection easier. If your model number isn’t listed, it’s best to contact Rheem support or check forums before buying.

What’s Included in the Replacement Kit

I looked closely at what each kit included. Some kits come with just the thermopile sensor, while others include mounting hardware, wiring, and even a new thermocouple. Getting a full kit saved me time and prevented multiple trips to the hardware store. Make sure the kit has everything you need to complete the installation smoothly.

Quality and Brand Reliability

I stuck with genuine Rheem parts or trusted third-party brands recommended by Rheem users. Cheap, generic kits might save money upfront but can lead to early failure and more hassle. Reading customer reviews and ratings helped me gauge the quality and durability of the kit I was considering.

Ease of Installation

Since I planned to replace the thermopile myself, I checked if the kit came with clear instructions or even video tutorials. Some kits are designed for straightforward installation, which is great for DIYers like me. If you’re not comfortable working with gas appliances, I recommend hiring a professional to install the kit safely.

Price and Warranty Considerations

Price was an important factor, but I didn’t want to sacrifice quality. I compared prices across multiple sellers and looked for kits that came with a warranty. A warranty gave me peace of mind in case the thermopile failed prematurely.

Final Tips from My Experience

  • Always turn off the gas and power supply before starting the replacement.
  • Handle the thermopile carefully; it’s a delicate component.
  • Double-check all connections and test your water heater after installation to ensure it’s working properly.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find the right Rheem Thermopile Replacement Kit that restored my water heater’s performance quickly and reliably. I hope my guide helps you feel confident in your purchase!

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Joe Petrus
Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.

In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.