Pilot Assembly for Natural Gas

Rheem SP20127 – OEM Natural Gas Pilot Assembly with Thermocouple

The Rheem SP20127 is an OEM pilot assembly designed for use in select natural gas water heaters manufactured by Rheem, Ruud, and Richmond. This pilot assembly includes an integrated thermocouple and is responsible for maintaining a stable pilot flame to enable main burner ignition.

Engineered as a direct-fit replacement, the SP20127 ensures operational continuity and safety in atmospherically vented water heaters that require flame-sensing capabilities through thermoelectric control. The included thermocouple functions as a safety shutoff by interrupting gas supply if the pilot flame is lost, thereby preventing unignited gas accumulation.

Applications and Use

• System Type: Natural gas, atmospheric-vent FVIR water heaters
• Ignition Method: Standing pilot with thermocouple sensor
• Primary Function: Supplies and sustains pilot flame; signals gas control valve for burner ignition

Key Features

• Integrated Thermocouple: Provides automatic gas shutoff in flame-out conditions
• Pre-assembled Unit: Includes pilot tubing, bracket, orifice, and sensor for complete replacement
• OEM Fit: Designed for exact compatibility with Rheem Group models—no retrofit modifications required
• High-Temperature Materials: Rated for prolonged exposure to combustion zone conditions

Included Components

• SP20127 Pilot Assembly
• Integrated thermocouple
• Mounting bracket and pilot tubing

Installation Considerations

Installation should be performed by licensed professionals familiar with gas appliance service and FVIR system architecture. Proper sealing of fittings and verification of flame stability and thermocouple voltage are essential steps. Ensure that the thermocouple is correctly seated within the pilot flame for accurate flame sensing and gas shutoff functionality.

Compatibility

• Compatible with Rheem, Ruud, and Richmond residential natural gas water heaters utilizing manual resettable ECO and FVIR safety design
• Model and serial number verification is strongly advised prior to ordering

Technical Specifications

• Fuel Type: Natural Gas
• Control Type: Thermoelectric with pilot flame sensing
• Connection: Compression fitting to gas control valve
• Mounting: Bracketed with positioning for accurate flame alignment