If your natural gas fireplace isn’t turning on, a common culprit is the pilot light. Over time, the pilot light may go out due to drafts, power outages, or an issue with the gas supply. Fortunately, relighting a pilot light is a simple process you can often do yourself. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely and effectively relight the pilot light on your gas fireplace.
Safety First
- Check for Gas Leaks: If you smell gas, DO NOT attempt to relight the pilot. Open windows, leave the house immediately, and call your gas provider or emergency services.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Open a window or ensure good airflow to avoid gas buildup.
- Turn Off the Fireplace: Make sure all controls are in the “Off” position before proceeding.
Step-by-Step Guide to Relighting Your Pilot Light
1. Locate the Pilot Light Assembly
- First, remove the decorative cover at the bottom of your fireplace to access the control panel.
- Look for the gas control knob, which will have three settings: Off, Pilot, and On.
- Identify the pilot burner and thermocouple (a small metal rod) near the pilot flame.
2. Turn the Gas Control Knob to “Off”
- Rotate the control knob to the Off position.
- Wait for 5-10 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate and avoid any safety hazards.
3. Switch the Knob to “Pilot”
- Turn the knob to the Pilot setting.
- Press and hold the knob down to allow gas to flow to the pilot light.
4. Ignite the Pilot Light
- If your fireplace has a piezo igniter button, press it multiple times until the pilot ignites.
- If your fireplace does not have an igniter button, use a long lighter or match to manually ignite the pilot while holding the knob down.
5. Hold the Knob Down
- Keep holding the control knob down for 30-60 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up.
- Slowly release the knob—the pilot light should stay lit.
6. Turn the Knob to “On”
- Once the pilot remains lit, turn the knob from Pilot to On.
- If the pilot goes out, repeat the process but hold the knob down longer before releasing.
7. Turn on Your Fireplace
- Flip the wall switch, use the remote control, or adjust the thermostat to ignite the main burner.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your pilot light won’t stay lit, here are some common issues:
- Dirty Thermocouple: If the thermocouple is dirty, it won’t detect the pilot flame and will shut off the gas. Clean it gently with a soft cloth or fine sandpaper.
- Faulty Thermocouple: If cleaning doesn’t work, the thermocouple may need to be replaced.
- Gas Supply Issue: Ensure the gas valve is fully open.
- Drafts or Venting Problems: Strong drafts can blow out the pilot light. Make sure there are no airflow issues near your fireplace.
FAQ:
Q1: My pilot light won’t stay lit. What should I do?
A: If the pilot light goes out repeatedly, it may indicate an issue with the thermocouple, gas supply, or venting. Check for drafts around the fireplace, and ensure the gas valve is open. If the issue persists, it may be time to contact a professional for an inspection.
Q2: Can I relight the pilot light myself?
A: Yes, as long as you follow the safety steps and guidelines in this article. However, if you smell gas or have trouble relighting the light multiple times, it’s best to contact a professional.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried relighting the pilot light multiple times and it won’t stay on, there could be a deeper issue, such as:
- A malfunctioning thermocouple or gas valve
- A clogged pilot tube
- A gas pressure problem
At Seattle Chimney Service, we specialize in gas fireplace maintenance, repairs, and inspections. If you’re experiencing ongoing issues with your pilot light, our team of certified technicians is here to help! Contact us today for expert service.
Final Thoughts
Relighting a pilot light on a gas fireplace is a simple process, but safety should always come first. By following these steps, you can restore warmth and comfort to your home in no time. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Seattle Chimney Service for professional fireplace maintenance.
Need Help with Your Fireplace? Contact Us today to schedule an inspection or repair!