Sometimes the smallest parts of a system are indispensable. That’s definitely true of your pilot light. This little beacon is tasked with igniting the gas when it’s time to get your gas fireplace going. Which means…no pilot light? Then, no cozy blaze.
If your pilot light goes out unexpectedly, frustration ensues. The first step in overcoming that frustration is identifying the cause so you can take the right steps to remedy the situation. Fortunately, there are a number of common reasons for a pilot light failure that are readily identifiable and fixable – some for homeowners and some with a little help from a pro. Either way, it shouldn’t take too long to get the flame going and the fireplace responding again.
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Common Reasons Why a Pilot Light May Go Out
1. Dirty or Clogged Pilot Tube
Let’s talk pilot assembly anatomy. The small line that channels gas from the gas valve to the pilot burner is called the pilot tube. One of the most common reasons a pilot light goes out is a dirty or clogged pilot tube. How does it happen? Dust, debris, and carbon buildup can amass in the pilot assembly as time passes, and this blocks the flow of gas. Without gas to fuel it, there’s no pilot light. Or with a weak fuel supply, you’ll have a weak or faltering light.
Even the most immaculate housekeeper probably isn’t thinking about cleaning that little pilot tube. However, careful regular maintenance can help improve your pilot assembly’s performance and prolong its usefulness. If the pilot light flickers or burns out quickly, your tube or port may be obstructed. You’ll also want to check that your pilot orifice isn’t blocked.
2. Spiders Around the Pilot Assembly
Speaking of clogs, insects – particularly spiders – can be a culprit when it comes to pilot light issues. Believe it or not, spiders are attracted to propane and natural gas. If they build webs around the pilot light assembly, these webs can affect the performance of your whole system – blocking the flow of gas and air and leading to a weak or extinguished flame. Webs can also create a buildup of soot and negatively impact the efficiency of your system.
3. Faulty Thermocouple
Another component of the pilot assembly is your thermocouple. This safety feature detects the heat of your pilot light. If it can’t sense that heat, the thermocouple automatically shuts off the gas supply to your appliance. This feature is important, since gas leaks are dangerous. But if your thermocouple is damaged, worn, or malfunctioning, it might fail to detect a perfectly sufficient pilot light, shut off the gas, and thereby bring the whole system’s functionality to a screeching halt. Once the thermocouple is repaired or replaced, however, you’ll be back in business.
4. Gas Supply Issues
Another reason for pilot lights to fail is located outside the fireplace system itself, in the gas supply. If the gas valve gets turned off, if there’s an issue with the gas line, or if there’s a gas utility disruption, the pilot light won’t stay lit. Anything that compromises a steady supply of gas – whether low pressure, blockage, or interruption – can weaken the pilot light or prevent it from lighting altogether. This is an issue that will require immediate professional attention.
5. Drafts or Ventilation Issues
Another potential issue impacting your system from the outside is air flow. If the area around your appliance is subject to drafts, the flame of the pilot light can be blown out. The movement of air through vents, windows, or doors can disrupt the flame and prevent it from staying lit. In some cases, poor ventilation in the appliance itself can also reduce the flame’s stability, especially in older models.
How to Troubleshoot a Pilot Light That Won’t Stay Lit
If your pilot light won’t stay lit, there’s a reason and a resolution. Begin by reading the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific appliance. Remember that dealing with gas can be dangerous, so don’t hesitate to call in help when needed.
- Turn Off the Gas Supply: Before you begin any troubleshooting, turn off the gas supply to the appliance. This will protect against leaks or the risk of gas exposure while you’re trying to find the source of the issue.
- Inspect the Pilot Assembly: Check the pilot tube and orifice for dirt, dust, or debris. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow out any blockages. If you see a lot of buildup, you might need to clean the area more thoroughly using a small brush or a cleaning solution designed for this purpose. If you notice spider webs or other blockages, use a soft cloth or brush to carefully remove them. This will help restore good airflow and gas supply to the pilot light, and may be all you need to address your problem.
- Test the Thermocouple: If you have a multimeter, a wrench, and a steady hand, you can test your thermocouple with the gas supply off. If not, or if you’re unsure of how to test the thermocouple, you can call in a professional to make sure everything is working properly.
- Check the Gas Supply: Check that the gas valve is turned on. If it is and you’re experiencing low gas pressure, or if you suspect a gas leak, it’s absolutely imperative to contact a professional immediately.
- Identify Drafts: If your fireplace is in an area that you’ve noticed drafts in, try to minimize them by closing nearby windows or doors. In some cases, thoughtfully rearranging furniture may help improve airflow – but of course, you don’t want furniture too close. Having your system inspected can help make sure the ventilation system is free of blockages.
When To Call a Professional
If your pilot light woes are still a puzzle, it’s time to call a professional. A certified technician can check for leaks and test components like the thermocouple and gas valve. They can also thoroughly clean the appliance and check that it’s running efficiently and safely. Moving forward, it’s also key to have your appliance routinely inspected.
Regular maintenance and professional installation keeps ahead of problems with your system, potentially saving you money and headaches. You should have your system inspected by a professional every year for the health and efficiency of your system, and for safety reasons. A pro can also advise you of safe burning practices.
A faltering pilot light is frustrating. But with years of experience and technical expertise, our team can restore your system to order and help keep your home comfortable and inviting year-round. Reach out today.
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