How To Relight Pilot Light On Fireplace

A fireplace is a wonderful addition to any home, providing warmth and ambiance during colder months. However, a common issue homeowners face is a pilot light that goes out. Luckily, relighting a pilot light is often a straightforward task that can be done yourself. This guide provides detailed instructions and safety precautions to help you get your fireplace back up and running.

Safety First! Essential Precautions Before You Start

Before you even think about touching your fireplace, safety is the top priority. Follow these guidelines:

Turn off the gas: Locate the gas shut-off valve for your fireplace. It's usually behind a panel or near the fireplace itself. Turn it to the "off" position.
Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to allow any accumulated gas to escape. Gas is heavier than air and can accumulate near the floor.
Wait and Smell: Wait at least 5 minutes to allow any lingering gas to dissipate. Sniff around the fireplace for the odor of gas. If you smell gas at any time, stop immediately and call your gas company or a qualified HVAC technician.
No open flames: Absolutely no smoking, candles, or other open flames should be present during this process.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Having the right tools on hand will make the job much easier. Here's what you'll likely need:

Screwdriver: A Phillips head or flathead screwdriver, depending on the type of access panel on your fireplace.
Flashlight or Headlamp: To see clearly inside the fireplace, especially in dimly lit areas.
Long-nosed Lighter or Extended Match: Crucial for safely lighting the pilot light. A standard lighter is not safe.
Owner's Manual: Refer to your fireplace's manual for specific instructions and diagrams.

Step-by-Step Guide to Relighting Your Fireplace Pilot Light

Now that you've taken the necessary safety precautions and gathered your tools, you're ready to relight the pilot light. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Locate the Pilot Light Assembly

The pilot light assembly is usually located near the bottom of the fireplace. Look for a small metal box or compartment with a few gas lines running into it. This assembly houses the pilot light, thermocouple (or thermopile), and gas valve.

Step 2: Identify the Gas Valve Controls

On the gas valve, you'll typically find three settings: "On," "Off," and "Pilot." There may also be a button to depress. Before proceeding, make sure the valve is in the "Off" position.

Step 3: Turn the Gas Valve to the "Pilot" Setting

Slowly turn the gas valve knob to the "Pilot" position. Some valves require you to press down on the knob while turning it. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Step 4: Depress and Hold the Pilot Button

While the gas valve is in the "Pilot" position, depress and hold down the pilot button. This releases gas to the pilot light. Note: Some fireplaces don't have a pilot button; the knob itself needs to be pressed down. Again, refer to your owner's manual.

Step 5: Ignite the Pilot Light

With the pilot button still depressed, use your long-nosed lighter or extended match to ignite the pilot light. Carefully insert the lighter near the pilot light opening. You should see a small blue flame ignite.

Step 6: Hold the Pilot Button (Crucial!)

Continue to hold the pilot button down for 20-30 seconds after the pilot light ignites. This allows the thermocouple or thermopile to heat up. The thermocouple is a safety device that senses the pilot flame and keeps the gas valve open. If the flame goes out, the thermocouple cools down, shutting off the gas supply.

Step 7: Release the Pilot Button and Check the Flame

After holding the pilot button for 20-30 seconds, slowly release it. The pilot light should remain lit. Observe the flame for a few minutes to ensure it's stable and consistent. A strong, blue flame indicates proper operation.

Step 8: Turn the Gas Valve to the "On" Position

If the pilot light stays lit after releasing the pilot button, carefully turn the gas valve to the "On" position. Your fireplace is now ready to use.

Troubleshooting Common Pilot Light Issues

Sometimes, relighting the pilot light isn't as simple as following the steps above. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

Pilot Light Won't Stay Lit: This is often due to a faulty thermocouple. The thermocouple may be dirty, loose, or damaged. Try cleaning the thermocouple with fine steel wool. If that doesn't work, you may need to replace it. A new thermocouple typically costs $20-$50.
Pilot Light Goes Out Frequently: A drafty environment can extinguish the pilot light. Ensure there are no open windows or drafts near the fireplace. A dirty pilot light orifice can also cause this. Try cleaning the orifice (see below), but be extremely careful not to damage it.
Weak or Yellow Flame: A weak or yellow flame indicates a dirty pilot light orifice or a problem with the gas supply. The orifice can be carefully cleaned with a thin wire (like a guitar string). Be extremely gentle! Do not use a pin or anything that could enlarge the orifice.
Clicking Sound But No Ignition: If you hear a clicking sound when you try to light the pilot, but the flame doesn't ignite, the igniter may be faulty. This requires professional repair.
Smell of Gas After Relighting: If you smell gas after relighting the pilot light and ensuring all connections are tight, immediately turn off the gas supply and call your gas company or a qualified HVAC technician. This could indicate a gas leak.

When to Call a Professional HVAC Technician

While relighting a pilot light is often a simple DIY task, there are times when it's best to call a professional. Consider contacting an HVAC technician in the following situations:

You smell gas after attempting to relight the pilot light.
You are uncomfortable working with gas appliances.
The pilot light repeatedly goes out, even after cleaning and troubleshooting.
You suspect a gas leak or other serious problem.
The fireplace has a complex ignition system that you are unfamiliar with.
You are unsure about any step in the relighting process.

Estimating Repair Costs

If you need to call a professional, here are some approximate repair costs to expect. These are just estimates and can vary depending on your location and the specific issue:

Pilot light cleaning/adjustment: $75 - $150
Thermocouple replacement: $100 - $250
Gas valve replacement: $200 - $500
Igniter replacement: $150 - $350
Leak detection and repair: $150 - $500+ (depending on the severity and location of the leak)

Always get multiple quotes from qualified HVAC technicians before proceeding with any repairs.

Maintaining Your Fireplace for Optimal Performance

Regular maintenance can help prevent pilot light problems and keep your fireplace running smoothly. Here are some tips:

Annual Inspection: Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified HVAC technician.
Clean the Fireplace: Regularly clean the fireplace interior and glass door to remove soot and debris.
Check the Vent: Ensure the vent is clear of obstructions, such as bird nests or debris.
Follow Manufacturer's Instructions: Always adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for operation and maintenance.

By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can safely and effectively relight your fireplace pilot light and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace. Remember, when in doubt, call a professional!