Ashbusters Offers Gas Fireplace Services Near Hendersonville, TN
Whether you’re troubleshooting gas fireplace issues, need a gas fireplace part replaced, or just need to schedule your annual servicing, we can help. Ashbusters has been faithfully serving Hendersonville and surrounding areas for years, and we’re happy be a trusted local chimney company near you. Reach out with questions or to schedule your next chimney or fireplace service.
Why Isn’t My Gas Fireplace’s Pilot Light Working?
The pilot light is the small flame by your gas fireplace logs that stays continuously lit and serves to ignite the main burner when the fireplace is turned on. If the pilot won’t light or won’t stay lit, the issue usually lies with one of the following components: the thermocouple or thermopile, the gas supply, the igniter, or dirt and debris in the system.
- The thermocouple or thermopile acts as a safety device, generating a small voltage when heated by the pilot flame. This voltage keeps the gas valve open. If the thermocouple is dirty, bent, or worn out, it may not generate enough voltage, causing the gas valve to close and extinguish the flame. Similarly, a malfunctioning thermopile can prevent the fireplace from starting.
- Another common cause is disrupted gas supply. This might occur if the gas valve is shut off, if there’s air in the gas line after an extended period of non-use, or if there’s a blockage in the line. Ensuring the gas valve is fully open and listening for the faint hiss of gas can help determine if supply is the issue.
- Dirty components are another reason your pilot light may have issues. Dust, pet hair, and soot can clog the pilot orifice or coat the thermocouple. Even small buildup (spider webs are a common culprit here) can prevent ignition or keep the system from sensing heat properly. Carefully cleaning the pilot assembly with compressed air or a soft brush can often resolve the issue.
- Finally, consider the igniter. Many modern gas fireplaces use a piezo igniter, which clicks when pressed. If there’s no clicking sound or spark, the igniter may need to be replaced or its wire connections checked.
And remember – always prioritize safety. If you smell gas or suspect a more serious issue, stop trying to light the fireplace immediately, ventilate the area, leave the area, and contact the appropriate emergency professionals.
What Should I Do if I Suspect My Gas Fireplace Is Leaking?
If you suspect your gas fireplace is leaking, it’s critical to act fast and take immediate steps to keep you and your loved ones as safe as possible. A gas leak can pose serious health and safety hazards, including fires, explosions, health issues, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Here’s what you should do:
- Leave the area. If you suspect a leak, the first and most important step is to evacuate the area immediately. Do not use any electrical switches, light matches, or use phones near the suspected leak, as even small sparks can ignite gas. Get everyone out of the house and leave doors and windows open if it’s safe to do so on your way out.
- If possible, shut off your gas supply. If you know how and can do so safely, turn off your gas supply. Many fireplaces have a dedicated shut-off valve nearby, or you may need to turn off the main gas supply to the home. Do not attempt this if you must go back inside a potentially contaminated area.
- Call emergency services. Once safely outside, call your gas company or emergency services. They will send trained technicians to assess and secure the situation. Do not return to the home until professionals have deemed it safe to do so.
After the immediate danger has passed, it’s vital to schedule a chimney and fireplace inspection with a certified sweep. We can assess the situation, figure out where the leak originated from, and make sure your fireplace is set up right and ready for use. And to prevent future issues, regular annual maintenance is recommended. This includes cleaning, checking for leaks, inspecting the pilot assembly, and testing all safety components.
Do you know the signs of a gas leak?
The most obvious is the distinct odor of gas – often described as a “rotten egg” smell, which is added to natural gas for detection purposes. Other symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, or fatigue, which can indicate exposure to carbon monoxide (which is odorless and colorless, making physical symptoms important to watch for). Hissing sounds near the gas line or fireplace can also point to a leak.
How Do I Restart My Gas Fireplace Pilot Light?
Restarting the pilot light on your gas fireplace is usually a straightforward process, especially if you’re familiar with the basic components. Whether you’re firing it up for the first time of the season or re-lighting it after cleaning or maintenance, here’s how to safely restart the pilot light.
- Locate the control panel. The control panel is typically behind a small metal or glass panel at the base of the fireplace. It usually includes a knob or dial with three settings: OFF, PILOT, and ON. You’ll also see a button for ignition if your fireplace has a built-in piezo igniter.
- Turn the gas control knob to OFF. This allows any residual gas to dissipate. Wait at least five minutes before proceeding to ensure safety.
- Switch to the PILOT setting. This allows gas to flow to the pilot assembly when the igniter is activated.
- Press and hold the PILOT knob. Press the knob inward and hold it down to allow gas to flow to the pilot tube. At the same time, press the igniter button repeatedly until the pilot light ignites. You may need to press it several times depending on how long the gas line has been inactive. (If your fireplace doesn’t have an electronic igniter, you may need a long lighter or match to manually ignite the pilot. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this process.)
- Continue holding the PILOT knob for 30 seconds. After the flame ignites, continue to hold the knob for about 30 seconds. This heats the thermocouple or thermopile, allowing it to signal the gas valve to stay open.
- Release and turn the knob to ON. After holding for 30 seconds, gently release the knob. If the pilot stays lit, turn the knob to the ON position. Now the fireplace is ready to use.
And if the pilot won’t stay lit…?
If the flame goes out after releasing the knob, try the process again. If it still won’t stay lit after a few tries, the issue may be with the thermocouple, thermopile, or a dirty pilot assembly. You’ll need a professional technician to come in and do an inspection to diagnose and fix the problem.
Safety tip: Always consult your fireplace’s manual for specific instructions. If you smell gas or feel uncertain about the process, call a professional to assist. It’s better to be cautious than to risk injury or damage.
Seeking a Hendersonville Chimney Company? Trust Us – We’ve Got Your Back
For gas fireplace service and repair in the Hendersonville, TN area, we’re here to help. Whether your fireplace needs routine maintenance, a quick fix, a faulty pilot light investigated, or a full inspection, our experienced technicians are ready to get the job done right. We take pride in offering reliable, hometown service you can count on year after year.
From troubleshooting ignition issues to cleaning and safety checks, we make sure your gas fireplace runs as efficiently and safely as possible – so you can relax and enjoy the warmth without worry. Contact us today to get started. We’re here to help.