How to Turn on a Gas Fireplace Without an Igniter?
Many gas fireplaces are equipped with an electronic igniter that allows you to easily light your fireplace without having to push a button. This is a great way to save time and energy, but if your ignitor isn’t working, you may need to use a few simple tips to get your fire going again.
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Step 1 – Turn on Your Gas Fireplace
First, make sure your gas valve is on and that the pilot light is lit (which is usually located in the burner assembly). Remove the screen or cover from your fireplace to access the controls. This will typically be a knob or switch that can be popped off to reveal the controls, which are typically at the base of your unit.
If you can’t see the control dial, look for an arrow-like marking or another indicator to guide you. This will indicate the position of the setting on the control dial.
Once you have identified the setting, press the dial from the ‘Off’ position to the ‘Pilot’ position through any spark clicks that are displayed on the fireplace’s control system. On some gas fireplaces, this will just trigger the pilot light, while others will also have a separate spark ignitor button that needs to be pressed alongside the dial.
Then, hold down the dial depressed in the ‘Pilot’ position until you hear a sound that indicates it has started a flame. If this does not happen, check the owner’s manual for your specific model.
Step 2 – Start the Flame
Once the pilot has lit, you can then use the gas control to start the main burner and adjust the flames to the desired height. Once you’ve done that, put the cover back on your fireplace.
Some gas fireplaces also have a remote control that allows you to light your fireplace from anywhere in the house. This is a great way to save you time, but be sure to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual on lighting your fireplace using the remote control.
Step 3 – Relight the Pilot Light
If you don’t see your pilot light, it is possible that it has been extinguished due to a fault in your system or that it has become dislodged from its setting. This is a common issue that can be fixed by simply heating up the thermocouple to re-ignite the pilot.
A gas fireplace’s thermocouple is a device that senses the presence of a pilot light and if it does, will heat up to enable the gas valve to open so that fuel can enter the burner ports. If your thermocouple isn’t functioning correctly, it could be a sign that something else is wrong and you should consult a professional for assistance.
When you’re ready to light your pilot light, hold down the control knob for 15 to 30 seconds to ensure it stays on. Some models suggest different lengths of time, so be sure to read your owner’s manual.