What to Do if Your Gas Fireplace Won’t Light

As the temperatures fall, homeowners start turning on their gas fireplaces for a little extra warmth and ambience. Many will do this without any inspection or maintenance of their gas logs. Some will find that their gas logs won’t light this year.

Are you having trouble getting yours to light? Wondering why and what to do about it? HVAC companies in Burlington can inspect, clean, and tune-up gas log fireplaces so that they operate easily with the flip of a switch. Call (336) 273-8663 to schedule an appointment.

In the meantime, here are some troubleshooting tips for gas fireplaces.

Make Sure the Gas is Turned On

The first step is to make sure the gas line to your home is turned on. If your home uses the same gas source for your furnace, water heater, or any other appliance, it is most likely already turned on. If not, turn on the gas to your home. If you have propane, make sure the valve on your propane tank is open.

Next, make sure the fuel supply to your gas logs is turned on. Once it is on, you may smell a subtle scent of gas in the area of your fireplace. This is a good indication that you at least have fuel coming to your logs.

Vent the Tubing 

There is a possibility that there is air trapped in the tubing leading to the logs. Hold down the pilot button for a couple of minutes to let the air out. Then attempt to light the pilot again. When the pilot is lit you will see a blue flame under the logs. You can then flip the switch and flames should come up from the logs.

If Your Gas Fireplace Still Won’t Light: 

There may be a problem that needs an actual repair, such as:

• If there is a spark igniter, it may be failing to create a spark to light the pilot. This may need to be repaired or replaced.
• Does the pilot light, but then go out again? This indicates that there could be a problem with the thermocouple, the part that measures the temperature.
• There could be a problem with the electrical wiring somewhere within the gas fireplace system. This will need to be repaired in order for it to light and stay lit.

The Importance of Gas Fireplace Maintenance

You can avoid this problem by scheduling yearly maintenance for your gas fireplace. As with your furnace and your air conditioner, having it inspected, cleaned, and tuned up every year will keep it working properly so that it starts right up when you’re ready to use it. If you wait until it doesn’t work on the first chilly day, you may miss an opportunity to use your logs while you wait for a repair appointment. You are most likely not the first one to turn on your fireplace only to find that it isn’t working.

Berico Provides Gas Fireplace Maintenance

If you’re looking for HVAC companies in Burlington that sell and service gas log fireplaces, Berico is your local provider. Berico can repair your existing gas fireplace or replace it with a new set of gas logs if needed.  Berico can also provide yearly maintenance for your gas fireplace.

Call (336) 273-8663 or request a quote today.