Is my water heater broken?

Question

When I light the pilot, it has no problem staying on. But when I set the temp dial to warm or hot, after a few minutes the entire flame goes out. I've tried to restart the pilot a few times, but the same thing happens once I set the temp dial to warm or hot. If I leave the temp dial on vacation, the pilot will stay on.

Answer 1

Replace the thermocouple.  

Answer 2

If the pilot stays lit for any length of time, the thermocouple is working properly.  Your control valve is most likely the culprit.

Answer 3

Could be the gas valve. I had this happen to a new water heater in a new house. It worked for a few months, then started doing the same thing your saying about not staying lit. Better call a plumber or the gas company. This is not a homeowner project.