How To Light A Gas Fireplace?

Gas fireplaces are available in many styles, with a variety of different starting methods. Most come equipped with a gas valve and a control knob or key to start and regulate the flow of gas. Some models are manual, while others use a wall switch or remote control. 

(Looking for “repair direct vent gas fireplace“? Contact us Today!)

Before lighting your gas fireplace, make sure the pilot light is on. If the pilot light goes out, you’ll need to relight it manually. This process may take several attempts, depending on how long the fireplace has been without use. 

First, locate the shutoff valve on your unit. It should be attached to the line and in a parallel position with it, giving you control over how much gas your fireplace can produce. You can also find a switch on the bottom of the fireplace. Twist this until it’s in line with the gas pipe. 

Next, remove the glass panel separating the fire chamber from the rest of the room and turn the fireplace on. You should be able to see the control knob behind the panel and the red igniter button. 

If the pilot light is off, try to determine what’s causing it to go out. Some issues include a strong draft or an interruption in the gas flow. If you can’t pinpoint the issue, call SUNDANCE Energy to schedule a technician. 

Once the issue is determined, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to light your gas fireplace. This process may vary slightly between units, so always refer to the user manual for your particular fireplace. 

Before starting your fireplace, smell around the area for any natural gas build-up that might be blocking your ability to see the pilot light or to smell it when you push in the control knob. Smell near the floor because some gas is heavier than air and can settle there, which can create an unsafe situation. 

Then, twist the control knob to the “pilot” position and push in. This is the knob that sends gas into the fireplace and lights the pilot light. The ignition button is usually a red or black push-button and the pilot light will be the small flame inside the fireplace that helps it burn. 

With the pilot light in the “pilot” position, press the ignition button about once every second until it lights. Depending on how long the gas fireplace has been without use, this might take several pushes to ignite. 

Once the pilot light is lit, keep the knob in the “pilot” position for about 15 to 30 seconds to warm up the thermocouple and ensure that the pilot stays lit. If your unit doesn’t have a standing pilot light, you can still manually light your gas fireplace by using a long match or lighter and following the same steps as above. 

Some gas fireplaces are controlled by a metal key or wall switch. Using these controls is easy, but you’ll need to be sure the key or wall switch is in the correct position and is turned on before starting your fireplace. If the key or switch is not in the right position, it could break and damage the system. You’ll need a qualified technician to repair this type of system.