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Thermopile is a an important device that converts thermal energy into electric energy. The purpose of a thermopile in a gas fireplace is to detect thermal radiation, for gas burner safety control.
How do I know if my thermopile is bad?
Just like the thermocouple, the thermopile can be read with a multimeter to check if it’s the cause of the problem. Three hundred millivolts or higher voltage is a sign of a good thermopile. A reading below 300 millivolts would require you to replace the thermopile.
What causes a thermopile to go bad?
As this occurs, they produce a small voltage of electricity that passes over to the gas control valve. A pilot light can go out. When this happens, there is no electricity, so it shuts down the gas control valve until the light is relit. High winds can cause the pilot to be extinguished, which stops thermopile voltage.4 days ago.
How long should a thermopile last?
Thermopile sensors don’t have a specific life expectancy or degradation rate. As long as they are used correctly and maintained properly, thermopiles can last for years or even decades and remain in good working condition.
Is a thermopile the same as a thermocouple?
The main difference between Thermocouple and Thermopile is their method of measurement. The thermocouple is a thermoelectric instrument, while the thermopile is an instrument that modifies thermal energy into electrical output.
How does a thermopile gas valve work?
The pilot light hits the thermocouple and the thermopile simultaneously. When the unit calls for heat (either by thermostat or simply being turned ON), the thermopile puts out enough voltage to open the electromagnet in the gas valve that sends fuel to the burner, turning on your fireplace!.
Can a gas fireplace get too hot?
The number one reason could be the logs. If the wrong logs are used, they can cause the temperature to shoot up. Another reason is the installation problem. The walls will get too hot if they are wrongly installed.
Why will my gas fireplace not stay lit?
The thermocouple and thermopile are the two most common reasons why a gas fireplace won’t stay lit. However, there are other possibilities out there. Another common culprit is incorrect gas pressure. As the seasons pass, you may find that your gas pressure drops below where it needs to be.
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple in a gas fireplace?
When replacing a thermocouple or thermopile with the help of a professional, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250.
How long does a fireplace thermocouple last?
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.
Can a thermocouple be cleaned?
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.
What does thermopile low mean?
If the thermopile does not generate the correct voltage, the heater may fail to provide you hot water. So, this is what the thermopile voltage low error means. The error means the thermocouples in the collection cannot generate enough current to power the control panel that we mentioned.
How do you clean a gas fireplace thermopile?
How to Clean the Thermocouple in a Gas Fireplace Turn off the fireplace gas valve and remove the front panel from the fireplace. Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple.
How long should a gas furnace last?
A well-maintained furnace can last at least 15 to 20 years, but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer.
Can you replace a thermopile with a thermocouple?
Watch out: thermopiles and thermocouples are not interchangeable. When replacing a temperature sensing device like a thermocouple or thermopile, you should be sure to purchase the proper part.
How much is a thermopile?
24″ Thermopile Was: $16.99 Details Price: $15.48 You Save: $1.51 (9%).
How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple?
It costs $150 to $250 to replace a thermocouple. It checks to make sure the pilot light is on. It will shut the gas off if it’s not.
Why does my gas fireplace have a thermocouple and thermopile?
In Fireplaces Gas fireplaces and fireplace inserts use thermocouples and thermopiles primarily to generate electricity. When turned on, the pilot in a gas stove generates heat, which travels through a thermocouple.
Is a thermopile a flame sensor?
Yes and No, a flame sensor and a thermocouple are two different things, although a thermocouple can also be used as a heat or flame sensor. A flame sensor can just be any heat sensitive device like a resistor, semiconductor, etc.
How does a gas valve work for fireplaces?
Gas flows into a series of valves attached to your gas fireplace. The valves are always closed unless something opens it. This prevents gas from flowing into your home when the fireplace is not lit. A device called a thermocouple will hold open the pilot light valve as long as the pilot light is lit.
Is it OK to mount TV over gas fireplace?
Mount Your TV Above an Open-Fireplace In most cases, you should not install electronics above wood-burning stoves or gas fireplaces and inserts because they produce massive amounts of heat. That heat could severely damage your tv or other electronic devices.
How many hours can you run a gas fireplace?
In general, you should not run an unvented fireplace for more than three hours at a time. If you are using natural gas, you can usually run your fireplace for up to four hours before needing to refuel. If you are using propane, the limit is typically two hours.
