How to Troubleshoot a Gas Fireplace
Many people find gas fireplaces to be a simple and convenient alternative to a traditional wood burning fireplace. One of the downsides of a gas fireplace however, is that when it is not working you must troubleshoot the problem accurately to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
- If the pilot light is out in your fireplace, check the draft spill switch. If it is open, reset it either manually or automatically according to the instructions.
- Check the vent cap to ensure that it isn't bent or otherwise damaged as this can cause a down draft that may blow out the pilot light.
- Check the thermopile generator by testing it with a voltmeter. If it is less than 500 millivolts, then the generator will need replacing. Thermopile generators will generally last up to five years before they begin to fail. A failing thermopile generator is another potential reason that the pilot light is out or it could be causing your main burner to fail at times.
- If the main burner is slow or does not come on check your wiring for loose connections.
- Open the shutter to the burner inlet to increase primary air if you notice black soot inside the fireplace. This means that the flame is burning too rich due to a poor air gas ratio.