Why does my pilot light not stay lit on my gas fireplace?
If the pilot light on your gas fireplace won’t stay lit, a very likely culprit is a component called a thermocouple. A thermocouple is a safety device and is a component of the ignition system. Its purpose is to not allow the gas valve to open if the pilot light isn’t lit.
How do you clean a thermocouple on a gas fireplace?
How to Clean a Thermocouple on a Gas Fireplace [3 Steps]
- Step 1: Leave the gas to cool first if it has been burning.
- Step 2: Polish the thermocouple.
- Step 3: Blow it out.
- Step 4: Light the gas.
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.
Why does my gas fireplace shut off after a few minutes?
If you get dust in the pilot assembly and the pilot needs to be cleaned out, it produces a “lazy” flame, which will be disturbed by the draught of the main burners. The flame lifts away from the thermocouple and causes the temperature on the tip of the thermocouple to drop. This, in turn, makes the gas valve shut off.
How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my gas fireplace?
Test the Thermocouple With a Multimeter
Turn on the pilot, let it burn for 30 seconds and note the reading. Anything less than 25 mV indicates a faulty thermocouple.
Can you clean a thermocouple?
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 much does it cost to replace a thermocouple in a gas fireplace?
between $150 and $250
When replacing a thermocouple or thermopile with the help of a professional, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250.
How do you clean a clogged pilot light?
Use your pliers or wrench to remove the pilot light and thermocouple from the bracket. Using the wire brush, brush away the carbon buildup and soot from both components. For hard to reach areas and stubborn buildup, use the metal file. Wipe away dust with a soft cloth or burst of compressed air.
How do I clean the pilot light on my gas logs?
Key Takeaways:
- Turn off the gas and light switch.
- Remove the glass assembly.
- Take a photo of the logs’ position.
- Remove the logs.
- Clean the pilot assembly with a compressed air spray.
- Reassemble everything in reverse order.
- Test the pilot light.
Why would gas fireplace shut off?
Most gas fireplaces have oxygen sensors that aim to make sure there is a sufficient amount of oxygen in the room. If your oxygen sensor is faulty, it will likely think that there is low oxygen in the room and turn your fireplace off.
