Why is my gas fireplace not working?

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.

Why does my gas fire not ignite?

If your gas fire doesn’t turn on, it may be because the thermocouple isn’t quite in the right place and therefore, can’t interact with the other components as it should. If the pilot flame sparks but doesn’t stay lit, the thermocouple has likely worn out.

How do I reset my gas fireplace?


Quote from Youtube video: So if you have a insert a gas insert which has a surround on it on the right hand side of the surround towards the bottom there's a switch all you do is hit the switch.

How do you fix a pilot light on a gas fireplace?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Look around to the back side where the pilot nozzle comes out into the fireplace. And see if you can find this little hole on the side. Get a can of compressed. Air or a pipe cleaner.

Do gas fireplaces have fuses?

In modern homes, the fireplace has its own fuse. Check the fuse. If the fuse is in fine condition, attempt to turn the breaker off and back on. Afterwards, find the fireplace manual, it should give instructions on how to light the pilot light.

How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple on 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.

Can you manually light a gas fireplace?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Light this match. And place it as deep into the fireplace. Keep a couple of matches. As. I can where I know the gas is going to move over the lighter alright it's burning.

How do I clean the thermocouple on my gas fireplace?

How to Clean a Thermocouple on a Gas Fireplace [3 Steps]

  1. Step 1: Leave the gas to cool first if it has been burning.
  2. Step 2: Polish the thermocouple.
  3. Step 3: Blow it out.
  4. Step 4: Light the gas.


Why is my pilot light 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.

How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my gas fireplace?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: You should replace the thermocouple. So to recap the readings to look for are 8 to 30 millivolts. And if the readings are less than 7million. You should replace the thermocouple.

How much does a thermocouple cost?

Thermocouple – $20 to $150



The thermocouple is an apparatus that senses whether the pilot light is lit and triggers the gas control valve. Repairs typically cost about $150 to have it done professionally, though a new thermocouple itself only costs about $20 on average.

What are the symptoms of a bad thermocouple?

Failed Thermocouple Symptoms

  • Signs of contamination on the tube, e.g. discoloration, cracks, or pinholes.
  • Signs of wear or corrosion of the wirings, e.g. missing insulation or bare wire.
  • Physical damage to the connectors which can have an effect on the reliability of the test reading.


What does thermocouple look like?

The thermocouple is made up of a tube, a bracket, and wires. The tube sits above the bracket, a nut holds the bracket and wires in place, and underneath the bracket, you will see the copper lead wires that connect to the gas valve on the furnace.

Where is the thermocouple on a gas fireplace?

Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe.

How long does a thermocouple last on a gas fireplace?

Thermocouples 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.