If you have a gas fireplace, chances are you love it. These systems offer a satisfying blend of ambiance, convenience, warmth, and control. …except when they suddenly refuse to turn on, in which case those reasons for adoration may yield to frustration.
Never fear. If your gas fireplace isn’t working, there’s a reason. Those reasons can range from simple problems, like a dirty pilot light, to more complex electrical issues – but where there’s a cause, there’s also a solution.
Let’s do some troubleshooting and explore potential causes for gas fireplace malfunction. And remember, too, that our experienced, professional technicians are always here to help! Reach out now.
Most Common Reasons Your Gas Fireplace Won’t Turn On
While systems can vary, there are some components common to many or all gas fireplaces. These include a gas supply line, control valve, thermocouple or thermopile, pilot light, ignition system, and burner assembly. A malfunction in any of these components will likely stop your system from working. Here are some ways this may play out:
- Gas supply issues. If your gas valve is fully open and you note no obvious blockages, a gas supply problem is possible. If you recently experienced a power outage or service interruption, the supply could have been disrupted.
- Faulty control valve. Maybe the issue isn’t with your gas supply but the valve that regulates the flow of gas to the fireplace. If it’s not doing its job, gas may not make it to the burner.
- Thermocouple/thermopile malfunction. These are safety components that help monitor heat from the pilot light. As long as the pilot light is going, they’ll keep the gas valve open. If they don’t sense a pilot light, however, they’ll shut off the gas flow to help keep you safe. However if they’re faulty, they may erroneously shut off the supply, preventing the fireplace from igniting.
- Dirt around the pilot light. If the pilot assembly gets dirty, this can clog the pilot tube and prevent the flame from igniting. Carefully cleaning or replacing the pilot light assembly might be in order.
- Ignition system problems. Modern gas fireplaces often have an electronic ignition system. An issue with that symptom might keep the fireplace from igniting.
My Gas Fireplace Won’t Turn On…But the Pilot Is Lit
Your pilot light is your ignition source. It’s likely the first thing you check when your gas fireplace won’t ignite. If it’s in good working order, but the fireplace itself still refuses to turn on, there are a few things to check.
If your pilot will light, but goes out frequently, the thermocouple or thermopile may be sending an insufficient signal to keep the gas coming reliably. It’ll need to be tested to ensure that it’s producing the correct voltage. Gas may also not reach the burner if the control valve is damaged or corroded. Be sure to consult a professional when dealing with the gas control valve.
Dirt around your pilot light can weaken the flame, rendering it insufficient even though it’s still present. Or, your pilot light may be misaligned, which can also hinder ignition. Following manufacturer instructions to clean the pilot light and ensure it’s positioned correctly may resolve your problems if this is the case.
My Gas Fireplace Electronic Ignition Isn’t Sparking
As mentioned above, gas fireplaces nowadays will often have electronic ignition systems that eliminate the need for a standing pilot light. Instead, they use a spark to ignite the gas when the fireplace is turned on. If your electronic ignition isn’t sparking, there are a number of things that may be the root cause.
- Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best ones. If your electronic system relies on batteries, check to see whether they’re still good.
- Or, if you have an external power supply, see whether it’s been interrupted.
- In an electronic ignition system, you’ll also have an igniter or spark electrode that generates the spark that ignites the gas. If the electrode is dirty, damaged, or misaligned, it may not produce a spark.
- Damaged or disconnected wires can also interfere with the ignition process.
- Finally, it could be a control board malfunction. This component is basically the brain of the system. If it’s not working, it won’t send the signal to ignite the gas and will need some professional investigating to test – and potentially replace – the board as needed.
Gas Fireplace Control Valve Troubleshooting
The control valve is like the gatekeeper of your gas system, regulating the flow of gas to the burner. If you suspect that it’s not working well, check first to see if it’s physically obstructed. If it is, clean it carefully and thoroughly.
Your gas regulator controls the pressure of gas that’s delivered to the fireplace. If it isn’t working, gas might be arriving with the wrong pressure. Check your regulator for apparent signs of damage. If it’s faulty, it’ll need to be replaced.
The valve itself can be the problem, too, if it’s stuck with corrosion or gunk. If your valve is seized or stuck, call a technician to replace it.
Reach Out to Ashbusters To Get Things Fired Up
Gas systems require a fair measure of expertise to handle safely. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with handling gas-related components, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional technician.
Better yet, don’t wait until there’s a problem! Regular inspections and maintenance will help prevent system issues and help you enjoy uninterrupted fireplace ambiance. Whether you have an issue that needs resolution or a system you want to keep in tip-top condition, let us partner with you in keeping your home safer and more comfortable – and frustration-free. Call or book online today.