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One of the main reasons why your gas fireplace keeps shutting down is likely due to the pilot light. Understandably, if your fire is not catching, or if the fire keeps going out, it could be due to the pilot light. This could be because there is dust or debris in the pilot light.
How do you fix a gas fireplace that keeps going out?
Easy DIY Fix: Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit Before You Begin: Is Your Pilot Light Lit Inside Fireplace? The Fix: Pilot Light to Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit. Check Your Thermopile Output with the TH/TP Contacts. Don’t Replace Your Thermopile or Thermocouple Right Away. Cleaning the Thermopile. Re-test the Cleaned Thermopile.
Why does my gas fireplace go out 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 you clean a thermocouple on a gas fireplace?
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.
Do gas fireplaces shut off automatically?
Nearly every new gas fireplace comes equipped with safety features such as a 100% fail-safe shut-off valve. If the pilot flame goes out, the gas flow will automatically turn off. This device automatically shuts the gas off if the temperature in the fireplace gets too cold or if too much carbon monoxide builds up.
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.
What maintenance is required for a gas fireplace?
However, homeowners need to schedule service for annual inspection and gas fireplace repairs when needed. Since these fireplaces rely on natural gas, homeowners need a professional to provide maintenance services like checking the gas line for gas leaks, the integrity of gas valves, and cleaning fireplace glass.
How long does a 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.
How long do gas fireplaces last?
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.
How do you check if a thermocouple is working?
Place one test lead on the side of the thermocouple and the other to the end that screws into the gas valve. If the thermocouple has proper continuity, a small resistance reading should be visible on the multimeter. Many multimeters also indicate continuity with an audio alert.
Why does gas fireplace pilot go out?
Some of the possible serious reasons for pilot lights to go out include loose or broken gas valves, thermocouples or heat exchangers, faulty venting, low gas pressure, or high winds. If you believe there is a serious problem, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.
Why does my 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.
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.
What does it mean when your pilot light won’t stay lit?
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.
Do gas chimneys need cleaning?
While gas fireplaces don’t produce creosote, they do still need annual cleaning. A chimney sweeping in your gas fireplace will help remove items like bird’s nests, animals, and any debris that may have gotten trapped in there as well any potential soot. Furthermore, a chimney sweeping is often also an inspection.
How long do gas logs last?
Q: How long do gas logs last? A: In the average home, a well-maintained vented log set with ceramic logs will last 10 or more years. A well-maintained vent-free log set with ceramic logs can also last a long time, but, if heavily used, will begin to wear in 3-5 years.
How often should gas fireplace be serviced?
Most manufactures require annual service and inspection of your gas fireplace. We recommend every year for regular users and no more than 3 years for fireplaces that are rarely used.
