Know The Right Protocol For Lighting Your Gas Fireplace

Not long after the dog days of summer comes the cool breezes of fall. That means breaking out the sweaters, blankets and firing up the gas fireplace to make your home cozy and warm.

Many homeowners choose gas fireplaces over wood-burning fireplaces because they run on propane, burn cleaner, and are easier to maintain. Gas fireplaces add value to your home with a small investment and a minimally invasive installation process.

Lightning a gas fireplace can be intimidating for most people. Your fireplace dealer is equipped to service your gas fireplace and ensure it is running correctly.

However, with a bit of practice, you can quickly get comfortable and do it independently.

Use this guide of safety tips to help yourself get familiar with your unit and work towards lighting your gas fireplace safely.

What To Know Before You Light Your Gas Fireplace

Before you attempt to light your gas fireplace, it’s essential to acknowledge a few points.

Most homeowners know that natural gas is a potent fuel source. If you aren’t careful, you could cause an explosion or a fire in your home.

Always take the proper safety precautions before attempting to light a pilot light.

• Find The Emergency Shut-Off Gas Valve
• Never Store Flammable Liquids In The Same Room As Your Gas Fireplace
• Always Follow The Manufacturer’s Instructions
• Only Allow HIghly-Qualified Technicians Install and Maintain Your Gas Fireplace

If you are working on your gas log fireplace and it fails to ignite, yet you still smell gas or hear the gas flow, it’s essential to get your family outside quickly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Call the local fire department to check your gas line and ensure your gas fireplace is safe.

Two Types Of Gas Fireplace Ignition Systems

Once you are ready, it’s essential to be familiar with your unit before you begin to attempt lighting. If available, consult your unit’s owner’s manual.

Ensure that your unit’s pilot light control knob is in the off position if you are attempting to relight it. This ensures the gas line is off before you begin trying to relight your fireplace.

Let’s take a look at the two most common fireplace ignition systems and how you can light the pilot for each one.

How To Light An Electronic Ignition System With A Control Panel Or Wall Switch

Electronic ignition systems only require the flip of an ignition switch or tap of the control panel to light the fireplace. You will only need to dive deeper if your pilot light goes out.

Electronic ignition systems operate on either a continuous pilot mode or intermittent pilot mode. Continuous means that the pilot light is always on, while intermittent means a spark will ignite and light the pilot each time you turn on your gas log fireplace.

The intermittent setting is beneficial in the warmer months when temperatures aren’t frigid. Continuous pilot mode is better for winter because it prevents the firebox from freezing, making it easier to light it when you need to.

How To Light A Continuous Pilot Ignition System

A continuous pilot light is always burning, so you will only need to light it if it suddenly goes out.

Follow these steps to light and turn on a gas fireplace.

1. If There Is A Glass Door, Open It.
2. Set The Pilot Position To “Light,” Or Center.
3. Push The Start Button While Lighting The Pilot With An Igniter.
4. Hold The Gas Valve At The Light Setting For 30 Seconds Or Until You See A Flame.
5. Set The Control To The On Position.

Some models require a fireplace key to release the gas to the standing pilot light. The fireplace key will slip into a decorative slot located to the left, right, or floor in front of the fireplace.

Once you have lit the pilot light, be sure to put the key close to your fireplace in a safe location to ensure you can easily find it in the future.

Remember, if you are uneasy about relighting your gas fireplace’s pilot, always consult a professional.

Troubleshooting Issues With Gas Fireplace

When you notice something isn’t quite right with your gas fireplace, you need to contact professional fireplace technicians to ensure your fireplace is properly maintained and safe to use.

Here are some standard troubleshooting tips you can use to guide the professionals in the right direction and maximize the efficiency of your service call.

Trust R & T Services With Your Gas Fireplace Maintenance

Traditional and modern gas fireplaces bring unparalleled warmth and ambiance into your home. If your existing gas fireplace gives you trouble, it may be time for a home improvement project.

Adding a new gas fireplace to your home will not only provide warmth and comfort but increase your home’s value.

Vist R&T Services’ unique fireplace showroom to learn more about the benefits of modern gas fireplaces and talk to an expert to see which model is the best fit for your home.