Why won't my outdoor patio heater pilot light stay lit?
Spider webs in the pilot tube and a faulty tilt switch can be two reasons why an outdoor patio heater pilot light won't start or stay lit. The repair of both is discussed.
Why does my patio heater turn off by itself?
Thus, the thermocouple will turn off the patio heater as it tricks the gas value in to thinking that the pilot light is out. Other potential causes are not having enough gas pressure or the pilot light/orifices are more restricted due to corrosion. Another simple cause is that a breeze is blowing just right and is blowing out the pilot light.
What to do when propane heater won’t stay lit?
What to do when the propane heater won’t stay lit? You have to start by detecting the core of the problem. The thermocouple or the pilot might be clogged. Thus, interrupting the heating process. Moreover, there might be an issue with the pilot orifice. Therefore you’ll have to repair it. Make sure to check the gas valves as well.
How do you fix a patio heater that won’t turn on?
There is a way to fix this problem. Making sure the patio heater is “off”, sure a pair of pliers to gently squeeze the pilot light and the thermocouple a bit closer. To squeeze the pilot light and sensor-bulb together, remove the top of the heater and the front control panel that covers the pilot light and control knob.
How do you fix an outdoor heater that won't stay lit?
Patio Heater Won't Stay Lit? Here's How To Fix It.Make sure you aren't running low on propane. ... Use pliers to move the thermocouple closer to the pilot light. ... Clean the thermocouple. ... Check for insects or nests. ... Clean carbon deposits from the patio heater and its housing. ... Reposition your patio heater to block the wind.More items...
Why does my propane patio heater keep shutting off?
If the thermocouple is too far from the flame, this can cause the pilot to go out and shut down the propane heater; you can fix this easily by moving the thermocouple closer to the flame. The thermocouple could also be worn out, in which case it needs to be replaced.
How do you keep a propane heater lit?
1:293:15Keeping Propane Heater Lit - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd that way when you push your Bucky. Here on the valve. And you light the element. It stays litMoreAnd that way when you push your Bucky. Here on the valve. And you light the element. It stays lit after only about 5 seconds. That's all it takes.
Why is my patio heater not lighting?
Propane patio heaters usually do not light due to a dirty thermocouple (the temperature sensor) or a dirty pilot light. This can be solved with a simple bit of cleaning rather than having to buy new ones. You also need to check if you've run out of propane, which is surprisingly easy to do.
How do I clean the pilot tube on my patio heater?
0:252:32Patio Comfort Heaters - Cleaning The Pilot Assembly - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAll you will need is a phillips head screwdriver. Or a drill attachment an air compressor. Or aMoreAll you will need is a phillips head screwdriver. Or a drill attachment an air compressor. Or a computer duster the steps we will cover in this video apply to both our liquid propane.
How do you clean a thermocouple pilot light?
Yes, you can clean a thermocouple, but the task must be done with a light touch. Remove the thermocouple from the process assembly, using a steel wool or emery cloth, lightly clean the tip removing any build up. Cleaning a thermocouple is not a fix for an issue, such as inaccurate readings.
How do you clean a thermocouple on a patio heater?
5:598:02Patio Heater Pilot Light Won't Stay Lit - DIY Thermocouple CleaningYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou know steel wool or sandpaper or things that i haven't used that much you'll find other littleMoreYou know steel wool or sandpaper or things that i haven't used that much you'll find other little things to to need to to use this so don't be wasteful just to hang on to that and save your money.
How do you test a patio heater thermocouple?
0:102:34How to test a thermocouple - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou press this button and if the button holds down that signifies that the thermo coupler isMoreYou press this button and if the button holds down that signifies that the thermo coupler is transferring heat correctly in the form of milliamps. And it is working.
Why does my propane pilot light keep going out?
Dirty or Damaged Thermocouple Explains Why Pilot Light Keep Going Out. A faulty, misaligned, dirty, or damaged thermocouple is often the culprit behind your pilot light going out. The thermocouple is an automatic safety shutoff device that prevents the gas valve from opening if the pilot light is out.
Can you bypass a thermocouple?
Realistically, you have just disabled the thermocouple, but you can also reach in and unclip it from its holding bracket where it meets the pilot light. In most cases it will be held on with a gravity clip, but some are held on with a screw that must be removed with a small screwdriver.
What is a thermocouple on a propane heater?
The thermocouple in a gas furnace is designed to keep the gas valve open through its electric voltage. If the pilot light goes out, the loss in heat causes the voltage between the two pieces of metal to drop, and this shuts the valve and reduces the combustion risk.
Can you manually light a patio heater?
Ensure there are no leaks and the heater is in good repair. For automatic ignition systems, hold the control knob in and use a lighter to ignite the flame. For non-automatic systems, turn the control knob to the lowest setting and use a lighter to ignite the flame.
How do you clean a propane patio heater?
If your patio heater has these issues, cleaning it could be all you need to do. To clean the burner or heating elements, remove the emitter screen to expose the burner or element. Because these should be kept dry, use compressed air to blow off dust and dirt instead of a damp cloth. Reattach the screen.
Can you reset a patio heater tilt switch?
To reset safety tilt switch, unplug the unit from outlet and reposition the unit on a flat, level surface. Push the reset button in then out again on at the tilt switch black box on top of heater.
How do you clean a pilot tube?
0:111:35Gas Pilot Cleaner - A 3 Minute Repair - GasPilotCleaner.com - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe easiest way to clean a pilot assembly is the only way operating pump once or twice will easilyMoreThe easiest way to clean a pilot assembly is the only way operating pump once or twice will easily clear the ash from the orifice. Inside the pilot assembly.
Why is my gas heater not igniting?
If your furnace won't ignite, the source of the issue may be a broken flame sensor. The sensor is responsible for turning off the gas burners to avoid gas buildup. Once this component starts to malfunction, it may stop the burners from igniting altogether.
Where is venturi tube on patio heater?
Remove the mesh screen around the control panel (igniter switch and control knob). Inside the unit you will see a thin copper tube going up into a brass cylinder. The copper tube is called the pilot feed tube, and the brass cylinder is called the venturi tube.
What do you do if your pilot light won't stay lit?
Check the Thermocouple If your pilot light won't stay alight, it might be the thermocouple. Sometimes dust buildup collects on the thermocouple and blocks the sensor. Try cleaning the thermocouple and then relighting the pilot light. If it continues to go out, the thermocouple might need to be replaced.
How long do thermocouples last?
10 yearsThermocouples can last up to 10 years if properly installed and maintained, while furnaces can last 15-20 years, although either may wear out sooner in multifamily units.
When I release the pilot button the flame goes out?
If you're able to light the pilot light, but it goes out when you release the control knob, the thermocouple probably needs replacing. The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off gas flow if it senses the pilot light is out, but when damaged it loses its regulatory ability.
How does a thermocouple work on a propane heater?
The thermocouple detects the heat from the pilot light, and should the pilot light go out accidentally, the thermocouple will automatically shut off the gas valve. This prevents unburned gas from flooding into the combustion chamber, where a small spark might cause an explosion.
Why does my gas wall heater keep shutting off?
Blocked or closed air supply vents: if your gas wall heater keeps shutting off, inspect your air vents to see if any of them is blocked or clogged in any way. You must keep all of the vents open, even in the areas you don't use. It's imperative for your heat exchanger to get air to transfer enough heat.
Thermocouple Solutions
The most common culprit responsible for a patio heater refusing to stay lit is its thermocouple. This component is responsible for producing an electric signal, after its metal is heated, that travels to your heater’s control unit and keeps the gas flowing.
Regulator Solutions
Another reason your patio heater might be struggling to stay lit is because it isn’t receiving enough fuel, or the fuel supply isn’t steady.
Pilot Tube Solutions
The pilot tube is typically responsible for your patio heater refusing to light at all, but it might also prevent it from staying lit if it is dirty or obstructed.
1. Thermocouple Gets Coated With Carbon
Your Fire Sense patio heater won’t light if the carbon build-up forms on and around the thermocouple.
2. Maybe the Gas Valve Is Off or The Tank Is Empty
You can’t turn on your patio heater if the gas valve on the propane tank is off. A closed gas valve restricts the gas to flow from the tank to the heater.
3. Gas Valve Orifice Gets Blocked
A clogged gas valve orifice is responsible for not turning the patio heater on. The patio heater orifice will get blocked if dirt, debris, and insects nest on the orifices. Besides, the air in the gas line causes the patio heater to not light up.
4. Fire Sense Patio Heater Igniter Not Working
The Fire Sense Patio Heater has a spark igniter. Over time, it gets worn out and the igniter won’t work. And in this case, you must replace the igniter.
5. Gas Pressure Too Low
Too low gas pressure is a barrier that causes your patio heater not to light up. Empty propane tank, blocked or defective gas hose & regulator are also responsible for low gas pressure.
Why does my propane patio heater keep shutting off?
If the thermocouple is too far from the flame or gets worn out, your patio heater will keep shutting off. To solve this issue, bring the thermocouple close to the flame. If needed, replace the thermocouple with a new one.
How do you clean a thermocouple on a patio heater?
First off, turn off the gas supply and pull out the thermocouple from the pilot assembly. Then, use steel wool to clean the thermocouple by removing dirt & dust. You can also hire a technician to do this task.
Why won't my patio heater stay lit?
Many factors, such as a downpour, blizzards and blustery weather, can come into play while trying to identify why the heater is not staying lit.
Why is my patio heater bubbling?
If bubbles form when the heater is on, then you have a gas leak. Because gas leaks are extremely dangerous and tricky, it is highly suggested that you take your patio heater to a local service professional to repair one.
How to stop a gas heater from burning?
Such buildup as dirt, spider webs and oil will cause the heater's fire to go out. Turn off the gas, dampen a rag and wipe down the top of the heater. Use a towel to clean out the webs and dirt.
How to keep a heater from catching fire?
Step 1. Stay clear of the elements. A breeze can blow out and rainwater can douse a heater's fire. Escape the rain by placing the heater under a canopy or an awning. Place the heater in front of a wind barrier , such as a tall wall, if harsh winds are the problem. Place it in a garage or shed when it is not in use.
Why won't my patio heater stay lit?from shop.firesense.com
Another reason that your patio heater won't stay lit also has to do with the thermocouple. Sometimes the thermocouple gets coated with carbon from the propane. Sometimes using a small tooth file and lightly sanding the thermocouple will help to remove the carbon build up.
Why does my patio heater turn off?from shop.firesense.com
The typical cause for this is that the pilot light flame has become too far away from the thermocouple. Thus, the thermocouple will turn off the patio heater as it tricks the gas value in to thinking that the pilot light is out.
How to squeeze a pilot light and sensor bulb together?from shop.firesense.com
To squeeze the pilot light and sensor-bulb together, remove the top of the heater and the front control panel that covers the pilot light and control knob. Then remove the bracket that holds the pilot light and thermocouple together to that you will get the best access.
Why does my gas heater keep going low?from shop.firesense.com
Sometimes the heater will stay lit but the flame is too low. This could mean that the gas pressure is too low. When the outdoor temperature is less than 40 degrees F and the tank is less than one-quarter full a low flame will result.
What to do if gas is on but no gas flow?from shop.firesense.com
The problem may also be in the regulator. If the gas is on but there is no gas flow then replace the hose and regulator assembly. If your propane tank is new you will need to purge the air from the gas lines. As described before open the gas line by turning the knob on the propane tank to fully open.
How long after use of a heater should you not touch it?from manuals.plus
Do NOT touch or move heater for at least 45 minutes after use.
What to do if propane tank is loose?from shop.firesense.com
Loose connections sometime cause problems. Check the regulator to make sure it is tightly connected to the propane tank. Check all other fittings as well. Make sure to use the soap and water test to determine if there are any leaks.
Why won't my patio heater stay lit?
Another reason that your patio heater won't stay lit also has to do with the thermocouple. Sometimes the thermocouple gets coated with carbon from the propane. Sometimes using a small tooth file and lightly sanding the thermocouple will help to remove the carbon build up.
Why does my patio heater turn off?
The typical cause for this is that the pilot light flame has become too far away from the thermocouple. Thus, the thermocouple will turn off the patio heater as it tricks the gas value in to thinking that the pilot light is out.
How to squeeze a pilot light and sensor bulb together?
To squeeze the pilot light and sensor-bulb together, remove the top of the heater and the front control panel that covers the pilot light and control knob. Then remove the bracket that holds the pilot light and thermocouple together to that you will get the best access.
What does it mean when a patio heater is too low?
Sometimes the heater will stay lit but the flame is too low. This could mean that the gas pressure is too low. When the outdoor temperature is less than 40 degrees F and the tank is less than one-quarter full a low flame will result.
What to do if gas pressure is too low?
Sometimes the gas pressure is simply too low. You should replace or refill your propane tank. The problem may also be in the regulator. If the gas is on but there is no gas flow then replace the hose and regulator assembly. If your propane tank is new you will need to purge the air from the gas lines.
What to do if propane tank is loose?
Loose connections sometime cause problems. Check the regulator to make sure it is tightly connected to the propane tank. Check all other fittings as well. Make sure to use the soap and water test to determine if there are any leaks.
Why is my pilot light blowing out?
Another simple cause is that a breeze is blowing just right and is blowing out the pilot light.
Why does my heater stop heating up?
Sometimes dirt, debris, cobwebs, or oil might build up in your heater. Therefore it might interrupt the burner from heating up properly.
How to clean a water heater?
To clean this, mix a tablespoon of water to ½ liter of water. Then soak your sponge and wipe the top of the heater with it. And then using a microfiber towel clean all the buildups.
How to tell if a valve is leaking?
To detect if there’s a problem, check if the valve is loose. If so, then it’s probably leaking.
How long does it take for water to heat up after lighting a pilot?
But for an electric one, it takes about 1-1.5 hours for the water to heat.
What does "if the first solution doesn't work for you" mean?
It is a trial and error sort of problem. If the first solution doesn’t work for you, move onto the next.
Can you keep a heater inside?
These heaters might be affected by the weather. Therefore, you need to keep in mind where you place it when you’re using it. Whenever you’re not using it, keep it inside.
Why won't my propane heater stay lit?
When a propane heater won’t stay lit, often what is happening is that the propane heater may sense that the flame is defective in some way, triggering the propane heater’s safety functions and causing it to shut off. The problem may be a genuine defect or it could be an issue with the sensor.
Why does my propane heater pilot go out?
If the thermocouple is too far from the flame, this can cause the pilot to go out and shut down the propane heater; you can fix this easily by moving the thermocouple closer to the flame.
Is propane heater good?
Propane heaters are reliable and effective ways to keep any area warm. However, like any machine, they can have issues from time to time.
