Relight a Gas Fireplace Pilot Light: Step-by-Step
To relight a gas fireplace pilot light, turn the gas control knob to “pilot,” hold the reset button, and use a long lighter to ignite the pilot while keeping the button pressed for 30 seconds.
Most gas fireplace pilot lights can be safely relit following basic safety steps and manufacturer guidelines found in your owner’s manual.
When your gas fireplace pilot light goes out, don’t panic. It happens to everyone. Maybe the wind blew it out, or it just went out on its own. Either way, you can get it back up and running in about 10 minutes.
Before we jump in, safety comes first. I found that many accidents happen when people rush this process. Take your time and follow each step carefully.
Safety First: What You Need to Know
Never attempt to light your pilot if you smell gas in the room. If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and call your gas company. This isn’t the time to be a hero.
Wait at least 5 minutes after turning off the gas before trying to relight. This gives any built-up gas time to clear out. I researched this timing with several manufacturers, and they all agree on this waiting period.
Make sure you have good lighting in the area. You’ll need to see what you’re doing clearly. Open nearby curtains or turn on lights.
Tools You’ll Need
Gather these items before you start:
- Long-handled lighter or fireplace matches
- Flashlight (if the area is dim)
- Your owner’s manual (if you can find it)
Finding Your Pilot Light Controls
Most gas fireplaces have their controls in one of these spots. Look for a small access panel or door near the bottom of your fireplace. It might be behind a decorative screen.
You’re looking for a gas control valve. It usually has three positions: “Off,” “Pilot,” and “On.” There should also be a reset button nearby, often colored red or black.
Different Types of Control Systems
Some fireplaces use a millivolt system with a simple knob. Others have electronic ignition with a switch or remote control. The basic process stays the same, but the buttons might look different.
Manual Control Systems
These are the most common. You’ll see a round knob you can turn and a button to press. Pretty straightforward once you know what to look for.
Electronic Control Systems
These might have a digital display or LED lights. Don’t let the fancy buttons scare you. The basic steps are still the same.
Step-by-Step Pilot Light Relighting Process
Now for the main event. Follow these steps in order, and don’t skip any of them.
Step 1: Turn Everything Off
Turn your gas control knob to “Off.” If your fireplace has a wall switch or remote, turn that off too. Wait 5 full minutes. Set a timer if you need to.
This waiting period lets any gas in the system clear out safely. I found that rushing this step causes most of the problems people have.
Step 2: Access the Pilot Area
Remove the front glass or access panel if your fireplace has one. You should now see the pilot light assembly. It looks like a small metal tube pointing toward a larger tube or log.
Use your flashlight to get a good look at everything. You want to spot the pilot light opening before you start.
Step 3: Position the Gas Control
Turn the gas control knob to “Pilot.” Don’t force it. If it doesn’t turn easily, you might be turning it the wrong way.
Find the reset button. It’s usually right next to the control knob. You’ll need to hold this down during the lighting process.
Step 4: Light the Pilot
Here’s where it gets interesting. Press and hold the reset button down. While holding it, bring your lighter to the pilot opening. You should see a small flame appear.
Keep holding that reset button for about 30 seconds after the pilot lights. This gives the thermocouple time to heat up and signal that the pilot is working.
What if It Doesn’t Light Right Away?
Don’t give up after one try. Sometimes it takes a few attempts. Release the reset button, wait a minute, and try again.
Step 5: Test the System
Once your pilot stays lit when you release the reset button, turn the gas control knob to “On.” Your main burner should light up when you flip the wall switch or use your remote.
Common Problems and Solutions
What happens when things don’t go as planned? I researched the most common issues people face and found some simple fixes.
Pilot Won’t Stay Lit
This usually means your thermocouple needs cleaning or replacement. The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off gas flow if the pilot goes out.
Try cleaning around the thermocouple with a soft brush. Sometimes dust and debris block the sensor.
No Gas Flow to Pilot
Check that your main gas valve is open. It should be parallel to the gas line, not perpendicular. If that’s not the problem, you might need professional help.
Weak or Yellow Pilot Flame
A healthy pilot flame should be blue and steady. Yellow or weak flames often mean the pilot orifice is dirty. You can try cleaning it with compressed air, but be gentle.
When to Call a Professional
Some situations require expert help. Don’t feel bad about calling someone. Gas appliances deserve respect.
Call a professional if you smell gas that won’t go away, if the pilot won’t light after several attempts, or if you’re just not comfortable doing this yourself.
Signs You Need Professional Service
- Repeated pilot outages
- Strange smells when the fireplace runs
- Soot buildup around the fireplace
- Cracked or damaged control components
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Issues
A little prevention goes a long way. I found that most pilot light problems come from neglect, not equipment failure.
Annual Cleaning
Clean your fireplace once a year before heating season starts. Remove debris, dust off components, and check for damage.
Monthly Checks During Use Season
Look at your pilot light monthly when you’re using your fireplace regularly. A healthy pilot flame stays blue and steady.
Keep the Area Clear
Don’t store items near your fireplace controls. Lint, dust, and debris cause most pilot light problems.
Understanding Different Pilot Light Types
Not all pilot lights work the same way. Knowing your type helps you troubleshoot better.
Standing Pilot Systems
These stay lit all the time during heating season. They’re simple and reliable but use more gas than newer systems.
Intermittent Pilot Systems
These light automatically when you turn on the fireplace. They’re more efficient but have more components that can break.
Electronic Ignition Systems
The newest systems don’t have pilot lights at all. They use electronic sparks to light the main burner directly.
| System Type | Always On? | Efficiency | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standing Pilot | Yes | Lower | Simple |
| Intermittent Pilot | No | Better | Moderate |
| Electronic Ignition | No | Best | Complex |
Conclusion
Relighting your gas fireplace pilot light isn’t rocket science, but it does require attention to safety and detail. Take your time, follow the steps in order, and don’t hesitate to call for help if something doesn’t feel right. With a little practice, this becomes a routine maintenance task you can handle confidently. Remember that waiting period after turning off the gas, keep your tools handy, and enjoy the warmth of your fireplace once it’s running again.
Why does my pilot light keep going out?
A dirty or faulty thermocouple is the most common cause. Strong drafts, low gas pressure, or a clogged pilot orifice can also cause repeated outages. Professional cleaning or part replacement usually solves this problem.
Can I light my pilot light without the reset button?
No, you should never bypass the reset button or safety controls. These components prevent gas buildup and protect your home. If your reset button isn’t working, call a technician for repairs.
How long should I hold the reset button when lighting the pilot?
Hold the reset button for 30 to 60 seconds after the pilot lights. This gives the thermocouple enough time to heat up and signal that the pilot flame is stable.
Is it normal for the pilot light to have a small amount of yellow in the flame?
A healthy pilot flame should be mostly blue with just a tiny yellow tip. Too much yellow indicates incomplete combustion and usually means the pilot orifice needs cleaning or adjustment by a professional.
Should I turn off my pilot light during summer months?
Yes, turning off the pilot light during warm months saves gas and reduces heat in your home. Just remember to relight it before you need heat again, and consider having annual maintenance done before each heating season.
