My Gas Fireplace Is Not Working

A gas fireplace should not only be attractive it needs to be dependable. So when they stop working not only is it frustrating you may get a tad cold. But we can warm you up with some of the reasons a gas fireplace may not be turning on when it should. Read on to learn more.

Pilot Light and Ignition System Faults.

An extinguished or weakish flame from a standing pilot light can often be an issue. If your unit has an electric ignition, an issue with the control module or the ignitor is often a problem. If you can hear the system click but not turn over and ignite or if there is nothing you can hear at all, the ignition system may need replacing or repair.

Thermopile and Thermocouple Problems

A thermocouple and thermopile are necessary safety components, they allow gas to flow and they sense heat. If they are not working they may not detect the flame in the correct way. This may result in the gas being cut from the supply and prevent the fireplace from lighting up. Of course these components do wear over a period of time and can become soot coated impacting their performance. Again a flickering or weak pilot light can be a symptom of this. If they are not aligned correctly, covered in dust and grime, the safety mechanism of the fireplace kicks in and shuts off the gas supply.

Do You Have Clogged Burners?

Just general dirt, dust and small debris build up within burner ports but never more so when the fireplace has not been utilized for some time. Obviously, if the burner is clogged, then the flow of gas will be restricted and potentially that means the ignition sequence will not work. So take a soft brush and gently clean the burners.

Dead Batteries or Switches?

Have your batteries ceased to be? Is your wall switch now spoken of only in past tense terms? Replacing batteries that may be dead or low means be the solution if your system is not receiving the message to start up. You would be surprised how often people overlook this quick and easy fix.

Gas Supply Issues

Obviously a gas fireplace needs a steady supply of gas. If the valve is not fully open or if your gas uses propane and you have propane levels that are low, the fireplace will probably not work in the way it should. And if there are leaks, disruptions or blockages to the flow, the chances are it will not work at all.

Blocked or Unclean Venting

Without sufficient airflow it is almost impossible for ignition and safe use of a gas fireplace. If the chimney or vent is blocked in any way it can cause the fireplace to not light up and trigger a shutdown for safety purposes.

Source: https://sureglowstoveandchimney.com/why-wont-my-gas-fireplace-turn-on/