Becoming acquainted with the internal components of your gas fireplace is crucial to diagnose and addressing any issues that may arise effectively. This understanding will enable you to pinpoint the underlying cause of the problem and determine if outside assistance is necessary.
A common cause of gas fireplace failure is a faulty valve or sensor. The oxy pilot monitors the oxygen levels in the fireplace, and the thermopile or thermocouple, which manages the gas flow, is frequently at fault. In rare instances, a gas leak may be the cause. You can attempt to fix these problems independently by troubleshooting and making repairs. However, if the issue is complicated or requires specialized skills and tools, it may be more prudent to seek assistance from a professional.
Pilot Light
One of the most important components of a gas fireplace is the pilot light. It produces a low flame that persists even when the fireplace is not in use, serving as an ignition source for releasing gas when the fireplace is lit.
Thermocouple
The thermocouple is another key component of a gas fireplace. Its primary function is to monitor the fireplace’s temperature, ensuring that the tube delivering gas to the pilot remains open as long as it maintains contact with the pilot light flame.
Thermopile The thermopile serves a similar function to the thermocouple but regulates gas flow to the fireplace. It generates more electricity than the thermocouple and can be used with a thermostat to control the heat output.
Oxypilot
The oxy pilot is a safety device that protects against carbon monoxide. It automatically stops gas flow to the fireplace if there is insufficient oxygen.
The Importance of Cleaning Gas Fireplace Components
Regular cleaning of your gas fireplace’s components is critical to ensuring its proper functioning. The accumulation of dirt, debris, and other contaminants can clog the pilot light, thermocouple, and oxy pilot, leading to poor performance or complete failure. To clean these components, turning off the gas supply and allowing the fireplace to cool completely is best. Once cool, remove the logs and vacuum any debris from the fireplace. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt or dust from the pilot light, thermocouple, and oxy pilot.
Gas fireplaces are an efficient and convenient way to heat your home during cold weather. However, they can become temperamental and malfunction from time to time. One of the most common problems is a pilot light that won’t stay lit. Here’s how to troubleshoot and fix the issue:
Start with the Pilot Light
The pilot light is usually the culprit when a gas fireplace fails to ignite. Check if the pilot light is lit. If it’s not, you need to light it.
Locate the Pilot Light
The pilot light is usually on a wall inside the fireplace or behind the logs. It may be operated with a key or a control panel.
Light the pilot light
Use a long lighter to light the pilot light and turn the gas valve knob counterclockwise. If your fireplace has a control panel, switch the control knob to “off,” wait for five minutes, move the control knob to the “pilot” position, and press and hold the control knob down while pressing the ignition switch. Hold the control knob for at least 30 seconds to give the thermocouple time to heat and register the pilot is active.
Check the pilot light
Make sure the pilot light is a healthy dark blue color around the edges with a lighter blue center. A yellow or red flame could indicate contaminated gas or a carbon monoxide leak, which can be harmful.
Clean the pilot light
If it doesn’t stay lit, clean it with a wire brush and compressed air. If it still doesn’t stay lit, check the thermocouple.
Check the voltage on the thermopile and thermocouple:
You can check the voltage on the thermopile and thermocouple if you have a multimeter. Look for the electric contacts labeled TH/PT and PT, and use the manufacturer’s guide to place the multimeter leads on each. If the thermopile voltage is below 300 millivolts, it must be replaced. If the thermocouple reads under 25 millivolts, it should be replaced.
Replace the Sensors and Oxy Pilot
If all else fails, it’s time to replace your sensors and oxy pilot. To do this, clean the device before replacing it, delicately clean away any dirt or soot with a stainless steel brush or fine-grain sandpaper, and reinstall the device. Light the fire again, and if you’re still having a problem, clean out the pilot light’s gas entry using compressed air or a cloth.
Other reasons your gas fireplace keeps going out?
Some less common causes for a gas fireplace to keep going out should have been covered in this article. If you have already tried the solutions provided here but still experience issues, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a repair service.
Some of the less common issues that could be at play include problems with gas pressure, a malfunctioning gas valve, the presence of moisture in the gas line, or the blockage of burner ports due to dirt, soot, or oxidation. While these issues are less common than the ones covered in this article. They can still pose a risk to the safe operation of your fireplace and should be addressed by a qualified professional.
Conclusion:
A gas fireplace may keep going out for a variety of reasons. The pilot light may not be lit, the gas may be contaminated, the thermocouple or thermopile may be faulty, or the oxy pilot may be clogged. It is important to properly diagnose and address the issue to ensure the safety and functionality of your gas fireplace. Many of these issues can be easily fixed with the right tools and knowledge. However, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with troubleshooting your gas fireplace, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional technician.
