How To Clean Gas Logs Pilot Light

Asked by: Maksim Judkovich

asked in category: General Last Updated: 4th February, 2020

How do you clean the pilot light on a propane fireplace?

How to Clean a Pilot Assembly on a Propane Fireplace

Turn off the fireplace if it is on and shut off the main gas valve.
Use a flashlight to look into the tube where the pilot flame comes out.
Use a can of compressed air to blow the dust and dirt off of the end of the innermost tube.
Turn the gas valve back on and attempt to light the pilot.

Propane burns very cleanly and leaves few messy waste products behind, resulting in fireplaces that use it requiring much less cleaning. However, propane fireplaces still require cleaning from time to time. In particular, it is important to keep the pilot assembly on a propane fireplace clear and clean.

Also Know, how do I clean the thermocouple on my gas fireplace? How to Clean the Thermocouple in a Gas Fireplace

Turn off the fireplace gas valve and remove the front panel from the fireplace.
Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe.
Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple.

Regarding this, how do you fix a pilot light on a gas fireplace?

To do this, hold the pilot button down for about one to three minutes while the air bleeds out. Step 3. If gas is coming out of the pilot, but it still won't light, the spark igniter could be the problem. Alleyne says to look for and clear out any debris between the igniter and thermocouple.

Is the pilot light supposed to stay on in a gas fireplace?

Leaving the gas on keeps this compound moving out of the tubes. Keeping the pilot light on will also keep moisture out of the unit and in turn, help prevent corrosion. As you can see, it's probably best in most cases to extinguish the pilot light in your gas fireplace during the months when you don't need heat.

39 Related Question Answers Found

How often should you have your gas fireplace serviced?

The initial and foremost guideline of any gas fireplace system is to have it inspected every year. With professional chimney companies, you can usually have your annual chimney cleaning and gas inspection scheduled at the same time. Matter of fact, your whole system should be inspected annually, top to bottom.

How do you clean a propane fireplace?

How to Clean a Pilot Assembly on a Propane Fireplace Turn off the fireplace if it is on and shut off the main gas valve. Use a flashlight to look into the tube where the pilot flame comes out. Use a can of compressed air to blow the dust and dirt off of the end of the innermost tube. Turn the gas valve back on and attempt to light the pilot.

How often does a chimney need cleaned?

How Often Should I get my Chimney Cleaned? This depends a lot on how much you use your fireplace or stove. The National Fire Protection Association says, "Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.

Does a gas fireplace need maintenance?

Gas fireplaces are easy and convenient. So much so, that it's easy to forget that even a gas fireplace needs upkeep every once in a while. To keep your gas fireplace operating safely and in tip-top shape, it's recommended to perform annual maintenance.

How much does a fireplace inspection cost?

According to Andy Klotz of Angie's List, a standard chimney inspection costs about $100 to $250, depending on roof accessibility and the type of chimney inspected. Some chimney sweeps waive inspection fees if cleaning or repair work is done.

What does it cost to have a gas fireplace cleaned?

Most of the cleaning for a gas fireplace can be done on your own when the fireplace is cool and the pilot light is off. However, because of the vent, you will need an annual inspection which costs around $75-$100. If you want a thorough cleaning at the same time the cost could be closer to $150-$175.

How do you clean and service a gas fireplace?

Instructions Ensure Gas Is Turned Off. Before you do anything, turn off the gas! Disassemble the Fireplace. This step will vary depending on the design of your fireplace. Brush and Inspect. Vacuum Away Dust and Cobwebs. Polish Glass or Metal. Wipe Down the Mantle and Hearth. Reassemble the Gas Fireplace. Check Exterior Vents.

How do you clean the glass on a propane fireplace?

Use a cream cleanser like Imperial Gas Fireplace Glass Cleaner. Pour about 2 tablespoons directly on to the glass. Spread the cleaner around using a soft cloth – preferably cotton. Leave the cleaner to sit on the glass until completely dry, this takes about 15 minutes.

What does a thermocouple look like?

The thermocouple looks like a piece of metal tubing smaller than a soda straw. To find it, first locate the gas control box. This is the box that the main gas line enters, where you turn the gas on in the furnace. The other end of the thermocouple sits in the flame of the pilot light.

How do you know if you have a bad thermocouple?

If you can't get the flame to light at all, and you're sure the gas is on, there's probably an obstruction in the pilot tube. If the flame lights and goes out when you release the gas control knob after holding it in for the recommended 20 to 30 seconds, that's the sign of a thermocouple malfunction.

Why is my gas fireplace not turning on?

1. Pilot light systems are the most common reason gas fireplaces fail to light, so check the main gas valve to make sure the gas is turned on. If gas is coming out of the pilot, but it still won't light, the spark igniter could be the problem. Look for and clear out any debris between the igniter and thermocouple.

How do you test a thermocouple?

Steps Locate the pilot light controls on the gas valve. Turn the pilot light on for 30 seconds. Release the button to see if the pilot light goes out. Turn off the gas supply to test the thermocouple again. Count to 20 and wait for the pilot light to go out. Listen for clicking near the gas valve.

Where is the pilot light adjustment screw?

The pilot adjustment screw is located on the gas valve, just "above" the pilot tube (See Figure 3). Remove the cap screw and find the actual adjustment screw behind it. Turn the screw in to decrease pilot flame, out to increase.