Full Answer
How long does it take for a gas fireplace to ignite?
Depending on how long it’s been since the gas fireplace was last used, ignition may take several attempts before igniting. After the pilot lights, keep the pilot button held down for about 15 to 30 seconds to warm up the thermocouple and ensure that the flame stays lit.
How to light a gas fireplace with a lighter?
To light a gas fireplace with a lighter, you need to follow a simple process that only takes a few minutes. Step 1: First, make sure the gas is turned off on the fireplace. Step 2: Next, locate the pilot light and hold the lighter up to it. The pilot light should start to glow orange.
How to start a gas fireplace and relight the pilot?
So How Do You Start A Gas Fireplace And Relight The Pilot? First, turn your gas fireplace’s knob from the “Off” to the “Pilot” position. Push in the pilot knob, which will then manually send gas into the system. Push the igniter button once every second until it lights.
How long should you let a gas fireplace sit before starting?
Wait about five minutes to allow lingering or excess gas to clear out. Tip: No matter what type of gas fireplace you have, open the chimney vent before starting a fire. This rule also applies to a wood-burning fireplace. A gas fireplace control panel usually has a red igniter pilot knob and a control dial.
Why does it take so long for my gas fireplace to ignite?
Your gas fireplace takes a long time to ignite because of one or more of the following reasons: The pilot light is too short or too long. The burner holes are clogged up with dirt or soot. Improper media placement blocking the holes on the burner.
How long does it take to ignite a gas fireplace?
Hold the control knob down for at least 30 seconds. To keep the flame alive, you'll need to hold the control knob down for a minimum of 30 seconds, possibly even longer.
How long does it take for a fireplace to turn on?
It will take up to 20 minutes for the temperature to heat up enough to activate the blower. How long exactly will depend on the specific model that you've installed, as well as the model of your fireplace. For example, a fireplace with porcelain panels tends to heat up faster than others.
Why does my gas fireplace not turn on right away?
Check the pilot light One of the most common reasons a gas fireplace won't turn on is often an extinguished pilot light. A strong downdraft, an interruption in the fuel line, or a build-up of soot and dust can cause the pilot light to flame out.
What happens if pilot light goes out on gas fireplace?
If the pilot light goes out on a gas fireplace the thermocouple and/or thermopile will help to shut off the gas supply. A pilot can be re-lit once it goes out but for gas fireplaces with standing pilot lights this re-lighting process may have to be undertaken after a short period of time.
Should the pilot light always be on in a gas fireplace?
Save Energy and Money We recommend that you turn off your gas fireplace pilot light seasonally. Turning off your gas fireplace's pilot light can save a substantial amount of energy and money. It is important to remember that not all gas fireplaces have “standing” pilot light, or, a pilot light that is “always on”.
Is it OK to run gas fireplace all day?
You can run a vented gas fireplace all day with little concern for anything other than gas usage.
Is it OK to leave a gas fireplace on all night?
An overall rule for safe gas fireplace usage is to not let your fireplace—no matter which style—operate throughout the night. Unmonitored gas fireplaces can lead to dangerous, often fatal, outcomes. The two most concerning outcomes of leaving a gas fireplace on for too long are a house fire or a gas leak.
How much does it cost to run a gas fireplace all day?
Using natural gas is one of the most inexpensive ways to heat your home. That's why gas fireplaces, gas fireplace inserts, outdoor gas fireplaces, even gas furnaces are such cost-effective heating options. Realistically, most gas-powered fireplaces will burn through about $1 worth of natural gas per day.
How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my gas fireplace?
If you can't get the flame to light at all, and you're sure the gas is on, there's probably an obstruction in the pilot tube. If the flame lights and goes out when you release the gas control knob after holding it in for the recommended 20 to 30 seconds, that's the sign of a thermocouple malfunction.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple on a gas fireplace?
between $150 and $250When replacing a thermocouple or thermopile with the help of a professional, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250.
How do I know if my gas fireplace is working?
A properly operating gas fireplace will have a safe and secure glass enclosure, will ignite without delay, have a clean blueish color flame and will vent properly out through a termination cap that is clear from debris or obstruction.
How do you ignite a gas fireplace?
0:231:49How to Light a Gas Fireplace - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFor some fireplaces you have to use the key to light and turn it off for ours we just use the key toMoreFor some fireplaces you have to use the key to light and turn it off for ours we just use the key to turn it off.
Is it OK to run gas fireplace all day?
You can run a vented gas fireplace all day with little concern for anything other than gas usage.
Is it OK to leave gas fireplace on overnight?
An overall rule for safe gas fireplace usage is to not let your fireplace—no matter which style—operate throughout the night. Unmonitored gas fireplaces can lead to dangerous, often fatal, outcomes. The two most concerning outcomes of leaving a gas fireplace on for too long are a house fire or a gas leak.
Can you run a gas fireplace when power is out?
Gas & wood fireplaces will continue to work safely during a power outage. These fireplaces do not require electricity for venting and can be used safely during a power outage.
Why do you need a pilot light on a fireplace?
The pilot light helps the fireplace burn, so you’re allowing it to start heating.
How to control gas flames?
You can control the flames with a gas valve key, so twist it counter-clockwise if you want to increase the flames or clockwise if you want to decrease them.
What prevents gas from transitioning to pilot light?
Clogged burner plate – it prevents gas from transitioning to pilot light.
What to do if you smell gas?
If for some reason you still smell gas, open windows in your home to clear out the remaining amounts of gas.
Where is the control panel on a fireplace?
The control panel is usually located behind the fireplace’s front screen which you can easily open without screwdrivers.
Do gas fireplaces have a key?
There are some gas fireplaces that use a metal key to start the flames and gas flow – follow the steps below if you have one.
What to do if gas valve is trying to fire?
If this unit is trying to fire, meaning the valve is opening and gas is simply running until it ignites several minutes later, ignore all the above and shut it down and call a service tech.
How to fix a pilot light that won't stay lit?
If it’s bad there is no pilot light. If there pilot light won’t stay lit, go to the local hardware store, buy a generic replacement. Turn off the gas, grab a headlamp and a few tools and replace it. the tip must be in the center of the pilot light flame. 30 minute job If you’re fairly handy. Since to get to that part you’ll have to move the logs. Take a picture of the layout And put back exactly the same way.
Do gas fireplaces have thermocouples?
Most gas fireplaces do not have a thermocouple, they have a pilot generator which developed the voltage to turn the main burner on. The pilot generator is the cause of this kind of problem about 3% of the time, so don't bother guessing that this is the problem.
Can a gas fireplace be delayed?
a lot of the time delayed ignition in a gas fireplace results in a boom that is very noticeably in sealed units, and a strong gas odor as well in unsealed units. I can't begin to imagine what a unit would sound like if it ran gas for 20+ minutes before it ignited, my guess is it would be very bad. This leads me to believe delayed ignition is not your problem but more of a faulty ignition sequence. So, how do you light this fireplace? With a wall switch, remote, or a switch on the fireplace itself.
Preparing to Light a Gas Fireplace
Before you light a gas fireplace, make sure you’re familiar with the unit. Look for the control panel. It is usually around the base of the fireplace behind the decorative fireplace screen. There are several things to consider about how to use a gas fireplace.
Lighting a Gas Fireplace With a Control Panel
A gas fireplace control panel usually has a red igniter pilot knob and a control dial. The pilot knob should have the options “Off,” “Pilot” and, in some models, “On.” Here’s how to light a gas fireplace with a control panel.
Lighting a Gas Fireplace With a Key Valve
Some types of fireplaces have a round, decorative slot for controlling the gas valve. It's usually located near the fireplace, usually to the immediate left, right or on the floor. You will control the gas flow with a fireplace key (sometimes called a hex key) as you light the fireplace.
Using a Wall Switch to Turn On a Gas Fireplace
It’s easy to know how to turn on a gas fireplace with an electronic ignition wall switch. Many gas fireplaces come equipped with a wall switch control panel for activating the unit and adjusting the level of the flame. Simply push the “On” button and the pilot should ignite.
Turning Off a Gas Fireplace
Knowing how to light a gas log fireplace means you also know how to turn it off. Even without a fire going, a standing pilot light uses a minor amount of fuel. Knowing how to turn off a gas fireplace valve can reduce your gas bill.
Video Guide: Starting A Gas Fireplace
The pleasure of having a gas fireplace is unmeasurable ( read more about them here ). There is no need to look for dry wood, carry it home, and chop it up before placing it in the fireplace.
How to operate an electronic pilot in a gas fireplace
Turn on the gas fireplace’s supply line. Ensure the electric switch is on if you have an electronic setting that controls the unit’s temperature. Look for the control knob labeled “pilot ignite.” If you have a unit that enables you to regulate the temperature, it will have: on, off, and electronic settings. Turn it off for a few minutes.
What you should know
If the pilot tube has air in it, it’s difficult to light. However, after numerous tries, the fireplace should ignite. If you notice that the pilot light needs to be lit frequently, check the end of the tube for debris.
Conclusion
The technique for relighting the pilot on your gas-burning fireplace is determined by the type of pilot you have; electronic or flame-lit. It isn’t difficult, but it may be perplexing if you’ve never done it before. The above are steps on how to start a gas fireplace and relight the pilot.
How often does a fireplace start?
If you run the fireplace frequently, say like every day or every few days, the fireplace starts within seconds after turning on the wall switch.
How much pressure does a gas line need to feed a fireplace?
If you are using Natural Gas (NG), the pressure coming thru your gas line is about 1/2 psi. That isn't a whole lot of pressure. The normal pipe diameter feeding the fireplace is 1/2" Inside Diameter (ID).
What is the gas tube on a fireplace?
On the fireplace side of the of the gas valve, there is a gas tube that feeds the pilot. The pilot lights first, then the burner.
1. The Firebox
There are three types of gas fireplaces: direct vent, b-vent and ventless. All three types are built with a central firebox. These fireboxes are typically made from galvanized steel and made to be used indoors. With an indoor gas firebox, their lifespan can be longer than 50 years.
2. Burners
If you have an issue with a burner, the good news is most burner tubes can be swapped out. Though, you have to be aware that the availability of parts may limit how speedy your fireplace is fixed.
3. Gas Valves
While burners and fireboxes are pretty straightforward, gas valves are slightly more complicated. Basic on/off standing pilot valves are very durable. Since they have very few "moving parts" and their design is well refined, they can easily last around 25 years.
4. Ceramic Logs and Decorative Liners
Between ceramic refractory and ceramic fiber, ceramic fiber logs are the least durable gas logs available. Ceramic refractory gas logs are made from reinforced cement and can last 8 - 10 years before they ever show signs of wear. Ceramic fiber gas logs on the other hand are very lightweight and made from a material similar to hard foam.
5. Blowers, Remotes & Interior Lighting
This category of parts comes with some pros and cons. Let's start with the good news first. When you come to a point where you need to replace a fireplace remote, blower or light, you should be able to find them pretty easily & replace them without much hassle.
6. Pilot & Ignitor Assemblies
Some people save the best for last. But that is not what we have done here today. Unfortunately, the last item on our list of gas fireplace parts is the one that is most susceptible to wear and tear. How quickly a pilot assembly burns out has everything to do with how you use it. Some people leave their pilot light burning all winter long.
