Is there anything cozier than curling up around your fireplace when it’s cold out? We don’t think so! As colder weather approaches, you’ll want to make sure your fireplace is in working order. Most gas fireplaces have a standing pilot light, which is a small flame that burns even when you aren’t using your fireplace. This makes it very quick and simple to start the fire when it’s cold outside, but many people shut off the pilot light when the weather warms up to conserve gas. If you find that your pilot light isn’t on, follow the steps below if you need to relight it and have your home warm and cozy in no time.
- Remove the (often decorative) cover of your fireplace to reveal the gas controls at the bottom of the unit, near the floor. You should see a gas shut-off valve. Turn the handle parallel to the direction of the gas pipes to turn on the gas. If you don’t see the valve, it may be behind the fireplace, so look for it there and turn it on.
- Pull the fixed glass assembly off of the fireplace. This is a critical safety precaution that prevents the buildup of gas if the pilot light is hard to relight.
- Locate the gas control dial. Just above it, you should see a red or black button. Press the button once or twice to verify that there is a spark at the end of the pilot tube. If you don’t see a button, you must light the flame manually.
- Turn the gas control until the “Pilot” setting aligns with the mark on the outer rim of the control. Push the button in while you push the starter. If the pilot doesn’t light, wait 10 seconds and push again. Continue doing this until the pilot starts.
- Light the flame with a match or long-barreled lighter. Hold the gas control button down while you hold the end of a lighted match or lighter at the end of the pilot tube. If you do this correctly, the pilot light should start as soon as the flame is close enough.
- Hold the pilot button down for about 20 seconds to give the thermocouple time to heat up, then release it. The pilot should stay lit, but if it doesn’t, relight it and hold the button a little longer.
- Turn the button to the “On” position, then replace the fixed glass assembly and the decorative cover. You’re done! It’s time to enjoy your fireplace!
Some home repairs are not as simple as a DIY fix. When you have questions about your heating and cooling systems, BelRed is here to help! We specialize in water heater installation, heat pump installation, plumbing services and more.
