Lighting The Pilot Light On A Gas Fireplace
How To Turn On A Gas Fireplace Pilot
This process for how to light the pilot light on a gas fireplace should work for most gas fireplaces, but always consult your fireplace’s manual for specific instructions. This guide should never supersede the manufacturers lighting instructions which can typically be found around or underneath the control valves of the fireplace.
Watch our gas fireplace service video at Gas Fireplace Video, for an in depth look at our gas fireplace service techniques. Watch as we clean and adjust the pilot light assembly, and check for gas leaks. Follow along to see critical check points and quick fix solutions.
Step 1: Check for Gas Leaks
- Turn off the gas supply to the fireplace.
- Wait a few minutes to ensure there is no lingering gas. If you smell gas, do not proceed. Ventilate the area and call a professional.
Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light and Controls
- Open the access panel at the base of your fireplace. This panel usually conceals the gas valve, pilot light, and controls.
- Identify the gas control knob (often labeled with “Pilot,” “On,” and “Off”) and the ignition button.
Step 3: Turn the Control Knob to “Off”
- Turn the control knob to the “Off” position. This will stop any gas flow to the pilot light.
- Wait for about 5 minutes to ensure any residual gas has dissipated.
Step 4: Set the Control Knob to “Pilot”
- After the waiting period, turn the gas control knob to the “Pilot” position.
- Press and hold down the control knob to start the gas flow to the pilot light.
Step 5: Ignite the Pilot Light
- While holding the control knob down, press the ignition button repeatedly until you see the pilot light ignite.
- If your fireplace doesn’t have an ignition button, you’ll need to manually light the pilot with a long lighter or match while holding down the control knob.
Step 6: Hold the Control Knob
- Keep holding the control knob down for about 30-60 seconds to allow the thermocouple (a safety device) to heat up. This ensures the pilot light stays lit when you release the knob.
- If the pilot light doesn’t stay lit after 30-60 seconds of holding down the knob. The pilot could be faulty. Stop and call a professional.
Step 7: Set the Control Knob to “On”
- Once the pilot light is burning steadily, slowly release the control knob.
- Turn the control knob to the “On” position to allow gas flow to the main burner.
Step 8: Close the Access Panel
- Replace the access panel to its original position.
- Turn on the fireplace using the wall switch or remote, depending on your model.
Step 9: Test the Fireplace
- Ensure the main burner ignites when you turn on the fireplace.
- Monitor the pilot light to make sure it stays lit.
Additional Tips:
- If the pilot light doesn’t stay lit after several attempts, there may be an issue with the thermocouple or gas valve, and you should contact a professional.
- Regular inspection of your gas fireplace will help ensure it functions properly and safely.
Gas Fireplace Service by City
At Premier Chimney and Roofing, we provide gas fireplace service for the following locations and surrounding areas.
Appointment Communications:
- Booking confirmation via text or email
- Email identifying your assigned technician and what to expect
- Reminder notice the day before your appointment via text
- Final reminder the morning of your appointment via text
- 20-30 minute Heads up when technician is in route
Key Benefits of Service:
- Gas log and burner service
- Glass treatment with specialized high heat glass cleaner
- Gas leak detection test on accessible gas connections
- Clean and reconnect all electrical terminals
- Clean and reconnect all data com terminals
- Pictures of the exterior chimney, cap, flashings, and surrounding roof
- Digital report with pictures, findings, and recommendations
What Is The Pilot Light On Gas Fireplace
The pilot light on a gas fireplace is a small, continuously burning flame that ignites the main burners when the fireplace is turned on. It plays a crucial role in the operation of the gas fireplace, as it serves as the ignition source for the gas that fuels the main burner, allowing the fireplace to produce heat and flames on demand.
Key Features of a Pilot Light On Gas Fireplace
Standing Pilot:
The pilot light remains lit at all times, even when the fireplace is not in use. This ensures that the fireplace can be quickly and easily ignited when needed.
Intermitent Pilot:
The pilot light only turns on when the fireplace is ready to be used. The system will ignite the pilot itself and prepare the burner for operation automatically.
Location:
The pilot light is typically located near the gas valve and control knob, usually behind an access panel at the base of the fireplace.
Safety Mechanism:
The pilot light is connected to a safety device called a thermocouple or thermopile. This device detects whether the pilot light is lit. If the pilot light goes out, the thermocouple shuts off the gas supply to prevent the accumulation of unburned gas, which could pose a safety hazard.
Ignition Source:
When the fireplace is turned on (usually via a wall switch, remote control, or thermostat), the gas is released to the main burner. The pilot light then ignites this gas to create the full flame that heats the room.
Types of Pilot Lights
Standing Pilot:
A traditional type that stays lit all the time. It’s more common in older models.
Electronic Ignition:
Newer models often use an electronic ignition system, where the pilot light is only lit when the fireplace is turned on, and it’s extinguished when the fireplace is off. This method is more energy-efficient.
Why It’s Important
The pilot light is essential for the safe and efficient operation of a gas fireplace. It allows for easy ignition of the fireplace while ensuring that gas is only burned when it’s safe to do so.
Gas Fireplace Service by City
At Premier Chimney and Roofing, we provide gas fireplace services for the following locations and surrounding areas.
- Gas Fireplace Repair in Virginia Beach
- Gas Fireplace Service Chesapeake VA
- Gas Fireplace Service Norfolk, VA
- Gas Fireplace Service in Newport News
- Gas Fireplace Repair in Hampton VA
Appointment Communications:
- Booking confirmation via text or email
- Email identifying your assigned technician and what to expect
- Reminder notice the day before your appointment via text
- Final reminder the morning of your appointment via text
- 20-30 minute Heads up when technician is in route
Key Benefits of Service:
- Gas log and burner service
- Glass treatment with specialized high heat glass cleaner
- Gas leak detection test on accessible gas connections
- Clean and reconnect all electrical terminals
- Clean and reconnect all data com terminals
- Pictures of the exterior chimney, cap, flashings, and surrounding roof
- Digital report with pictures, findings, and recommendations
