Why Won’t My Pilot Light Stay Lit? Common Gas Fireplace Issues

A fireplace is not just a heat source but a focal point that can make any room feel comfy and welcoming. Now imagine the ease of a gas fireplace with no logs to carry or ashes to clean. With the flick of a switch, you’re greeted by dancing flames and a cozy warmth that transforms your space.

But what happens when the pilot light keeps going out? This small flame ensures your fireplace operates safely and efficiently. If it goes out, it’s more than just an inconvenience; it could point to underlying issues needing your attention.

Whether from dirt buildup, faulty gas valves, or mechanical failures, there are several reasons why your pilot light keeps going off in your gas fireplace. Keep reading to understand these reasons, how to troubleshoot them, and when to call in a fireplace repair professional.

Common Reasons Why Your Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

If you’ve been asking, “Why won’t my pilot stay lit?” you’re not alone. Here are the most common issues.

Dirty or Faulty Thermocouple

The thermocouple plays a crucial role in the operations of your gas fireplace. It detects whether the pilot light is burning and shuts off the gas supply if there is no flame. However, dirt, soot, or wear and tear over time can lead to malfunctions, causing your pilot light to keep going out.

Signs of a dirty or faulty thermocouple include:

  • The pilot light only stays lit briefly or won’t light at all.
  • The flame appears weak or inconsistent.

Problems with a gas fireplace’s thermocouple are best left to professionals. Here are the troubleshooting steps they will take:

  • Turn off the gas supply and ensure the fireplace is completely cool.
  • Use a clean, dry cloth or fine-grit sandpaper to remove dirt or soot from the thermocouple.
  • Check that the thermocouple is correctly positioned so the flame fully envelopes its tip.

If cleaning doesn’t fix the problem, the thermocouple might need replacing. Fireplace repair professionals can handle this task as they have the necessary skills and experience for the job.

Gas Supply Issues

A steady gas supply is essential for your pilot light to function correctly. If there’s an interruption or problem with the gas line, the pilot light may fail to ignite or stay lit. Even minor disruptions in the supply can lead to a weak or flickering flame, causing operational issues with your gas fireplace.

Signs of gas supply problems include:

  • The pilot light struggles to ignite, even after multiple attempts.
  • The flame is weak, flickering, or unstable.

Troubleshooting steps:

  • Check other gas appliances, such as your stove or water heater, to ensure they function normally. If they aren’t working, the issue may be with the overall gas supply.
  • If you can easily find your gas line, visually inspect this line for signs of damage, leaks, or blockages that could disrupt gas flow.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, contact a fireplace repair expert to inspect the gas supply line.

Incorrect Gas Pressure

Gas fireplaces rely on the correct gas pressure to operate correctly. If the pressure is too low, the flame will be weak. In contrast, if the pressure is too high, it could damage the gas valve or lead to other safety risks.

Signs of incorrect gas pressure include:

  • Small or unstable flames.
  • The pilot light keeps going out.

Professionals are best equipped to deal with gas pressure issues with a gas fireplace. Here are the steps they will take:

  • Ensure the gas valve is fully open to ensure adequate gas flow to the fireplace.
  • Inspect the pressure regulator to ensure it’s working correctly and maintaining pressure.
  • Use a manometer (pressure gauge) to test if the gas pressure is within the recommended range.
  • Check for blockages or leaks in the gas line that could affect the pressure.

If the pressure is still incorrect, a fireplace repair professional may need to measure, adjust, and repair the gas pressure.

Clogged or Dirty Burner Ports

Burner ports deliver gas to your fireplace. If they get clogged with dirt, soot, or other debris, it may restrict gas flow, preventing the pilot light from staying lit.

Signs of clogged burner ports include:

  • Flames flickering or burning unevenly.
  • The pilot light goes out when the main burner is turned on.

Here are the troubleshooting steps that a professional will take to clean clogged or dirty burner ports:

  • Turn off the fireplace and allow it to cool down completely before cleaning.
  • Clean the burner ports carefully with a soft brush or use compressed air to remove debris.
  • Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the parts.
  • Check the user manual for any specific cleaning instructions for your model.

If the problem persists, contact a professional to inspect and clean the burner ports.

Faulty Gas Valve

The gas valve controls the flow of gas to your fireplace. If it malfunctions, the pilot light may fail to stay lit.

Signs of a faulty gas valve include:

  • The pilot light flickers or doesn’t ignite at all.
  • The main burner flame is weak or inconsistent.

As with most aspects of a malfunctioning fireplace, if you suspect you have a faulty gas valve, it’s time to contact a professional for a fireplace inspection.

How Do I Know If My Thermocouple Is Bad on My Gas Fireplace?

A thermocouple is a safety device in your gas fireplace that monitors the pilot light. It ensures that gas only flows when the pilot light is burning. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may cut off the gas supply even when the pilot light is on, causing the light to extinguish unexpectedly. This safety feature prevents gas leaks but can become an issue if the thermocouple malfunctions.

Signs of a Faulty Thermocouple

There are signs of a faulty thermocouple that homeowners can look for. These include:

  • The pilot light does not ignite or requires multiple attempts to light.
  • Despite a steady gas supply, the pilot light goes out shortly after being lit.
  • The fireplace shuts off unexpectedly during operation.
  • You must hold down the ignition button to keep the pilot light on.

If you suspect your thermocouple is not working, reach out to a fireplace repair professional for help.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if you are having issues with your gas fireplace. A fireplace repair professional has the tools and experience to safely replace the thermocouple or address other potential issues with your gas fireplace.

Is a Thermocouple and Igniter the Same Thing?

No, a thermocouple and igniter are not the same. A gas fireplace uses two key components to function smoothly: the thermocouple and the igniter. Although they work together, their roles are different.

Thermocouple

This critical safety feature ensures that gas only flows if there’s a flame. It heats up near the pilot light and produces a small electrical signal that keeps the gas valve open. If the pilot flame goes out, the thermocouple cools, cutting the gas supply to prevent leaks, which is vital to avoid accidents.

Igniter

This component is responsible for sparking life into your fireplace. Whether manual or electronic, it generates the flame to light the pilot and burner. If this part fails, your fireplace won’t ignite, no matter what you do.

Understanding their differences helps with troubleshooting. Persistent ignition problems often point to a faulty sparking device, while a pilot that won’t stay lit could signal thermocouple issues. Regular upkeep of both ensures a safe and efficient fireplace. When in doubt, call in a fireplace professional for repairs.

Say Goodbye to Pilot Light Problems

Dealing with a pilot light that won’t stay lit can be frustrating, but understanding the common causes can make troubleshooting easier. Whether it’s a dirty thermocouple, gas supply issue, or faulty gas valve, knowing the signs will help you spot a problem early.

When in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact fireplace repair professionals. These experienced technicians have the experience and knowledge to diagnose and fix any issues with your gas fireplace. A professional can also help you decide whether a gas or wood fireplace would work best for you.

Capitol Chimney Is An Expert on Gas Fireplaces

If you’re having issues with your gas fireplace, it’s best to call in a professional. A fireplace repair professional can assess the issue and make any needed repairs. At Capitol Chimney, we can assure you that your gas fireplace will be well taken care of. 

author avatar
Walter Clarke Founder
Walter Clarke is the founder of Capitol Chimney. He has provided chimney, fireplace, and dryer vent services to Central Texans for over 20 years.

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