Repairing Guides

how to repair gas fireplace

by Prof. Moses Brown Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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How do you turn off a gas fireplace?

What to Do When Gas Fireplace Won’t Turn Off with Wall Switch?

  1. Wall Switch Not Working After locating the controller of the fireplace, you can try turning it off once the wall switch has failed to do the job. ...
  2. Remote Control Not Working Fireplaces that are controlled by the remote control can show some problems too. ...
  3. Pilot Switch Not Working

How to start a gas fireplace with no power?

  • If the system involves opening a gas valve with a fireplace key, use a long match or lighter. ...
  • If you’re using a fireplace key and your fireplace has a front cover, remove it completely and set it aside to access the burner.
  • If the control panel’s pilot knob is not already in “Off” position, turn it off. ...

How much maintenance does a gas fireplace need?

What Will a Fireplace Service Do?

  • Inspect the exterior. Make sure the unit is properly mounted and there are no gaps or cracks in the fireplace framework.
  • Check the glass for cracks. ...
  • Inspect the logs. ...
  • Check the gas ignition. ...
  • Vacuum the interior. ...
  • Check carbon monoxide detectors. ...
  • Inspect the chimney. ...

How to update and modernize a gas fireplace?

  • The first and most critical step is to shut off the valve or pilot light to the gas fireplace before using the highly flammable spray paint. ...
  • Second, if there is a glass panel on the fireplace, remove it. ...
  • The third step is to use painters tape and construction paper to protect the area around the fireplace that isn’t being painted.

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Why is my gas fireplace not working?

Check the pilot light One of the most common reasons a gas fireplace won't turn on is often an extinguished pilot light. A strong downdraft, an interruption in the fuel line, or a build-up of soot and dust can cause the pilot light to flame out.

How do you replace a thermocouple on a gas fireplace?

0:247:58Fireplace Won't Stay Lit? This Is How You Fix It! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSet you have to get access to the burner assembly. If you look inside there you can see theMoreSet you have to get access to the burner assembly. If you look inside there you can see the thermocouple the thermopile. And the burner.

How do you fix a pilot light on a gas fireplace?

0:101:08How to Fix Gas Fireplace Pilot Light That Won't Stay On - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGet a can of compressed. Air or a pipe cleaner. And clean out this little hole spray some air downMoreGet a can of compressed. Air or a pipe cleaner. And clean out this little hole spray some air down to the main opening of the nozzle as well.

How do you fix a gas fireplace that won't stay lit?

The thermocouple and thermopile are the two most common reasons why a gas fireplace won't stay lit. However, there are other possibilities out there. Another common culprit is incorrect gas pressure. As the seasons pass, you may find that your gas pressure drops below where it needs to be.

How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my gas fireplace?

2:313:43Fireplace How To: Testing A Thermocouple - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou should replace the thermocouple. So to recap the readings to look for are 8 to 30 millivolts.MoreYou should replace the thermocouple. So to recap the readings to look for are 8 to 30 millivolts. And if the readings are less than 7million. You should replace the thermocouple.

How much does it cost to replace a thermocouple on a gas fireplace?

between $150 and $250When replacing a thermocouple or thermopile with the help of a professional, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250.

Why is my gas fire not lighting?

Gas fire thermocouple issues If your gas fire doesn't turn on, it may be because the thermocouple isn't quite in the right place and therefore, can't interact with the other components as it should. If the pilot flame sparks but doesn't stay lit, the thermocouple has likely worn out.

What causes gas fireplace pilot to go out?

Some of the possible serious reasons for pilot lights to go out include loose or broken gas valves, thermocouples or heat exchangers, faulty venting, low gas pressure, or high winds. If you believe there is a serious problem, don't hesitate to contact a professional.

Does gas still flow when pilot light goes out?

If your pilot light repeatedly goes out, this is a likely culprit. If this flame sensor should fail, gas will continue to flow even after the pilot light has been extinguished, causing a safety hazard and requiring immediate repair.

How long does a thermocouple last on a gas fireplace?

Thermocouples can last up to 10 years if properly installed and maintained, while furnaces can last 15-20 years, although either may wear out sooner in multifamily units.

Why does my gas fireplace shut off after a few minutes?

If you get dust in the pilot assembly and the pilot needs to be cleaned out, it produces a "lazy" flame, which will be disturbed by the draught of the main burners. The flame lifts away from the thermocouple and causes the temperature on the tip of the thermocouple to drop. This, in turn, makes the gas valve shut off.

Why turn off gas on natural gas fireplace?

Always turn off the gas when working on a natural gas fireplace to reduce the chance of an explosion. Because these fireplaces are operated by switch, it may be wise to turn off the electricity as well to reduce the chance of getting shocked while working on the unit. Continue reading below Our Video of the Day.

What happens if the pilot light goes out on a fireplace?

If the pilot light has gone out, the fireplace will not be able to start up. Furthermore, turning off the gas to the insert before working on it, as a safety precaution, will have ensured that the pilot light is gone. So, to relight it, turn the gas and electricity back on and examine the gas valve located in the back of the fireplace.

What can go wrong with a natural gas insert?

There are many things that can go wrong with a natural gas insert, but the two most common problems are cracks or holes developing in the firebox around the insert and the fire not starting when the switch is activated. If a hole or crack is visible in the firebox wall, continue reading step 3.

How long does it take for cement to set before turning back on?

Once the cement has been properly applied to the affected areas, let it set for a few hours before turning the flame back on. Turning the flame on will expedite the drying process of the cement, but drying it too rapidly or too soon may cause the cement to crack.

Can you repair a firebox insert?

If the firebox around the insert is metal, it may be slightly difficult to repair . Any cracks in the metal will need to be welded shut. A skilled do-it-yourselfer will be able to use a welder to do the job, but it may be wise to call a professional welder if one is not comfortable attempting this fix.

Why Get a Gas Fireplace Serviced?

A gas fireplace is a relatively new addition to the modern home. In fact, it only started being produced in mass quantities within the past thirty years or so. There are many advantages of owning a gas fire place over an older wood stove-like product that used open flame and natural elements such as smoke and embers for heat production.

What Will a Fireplace Service Do?

The service professional will check the fireplace for safety and clean it.

When to Get a Fireplace Service

You can get a fireplace service when you are having trouble with it. A possible problem may be that the flame is not coming up correctly or there might be carbon monoxide leaking into your home.

What Does Fireplace Servicing Cost?

Like with any furnace, fireplace servicing does require some investment. The cost of a service will depend on several factors: the type and build quality of your unit; its size; whether it is gas or wood burning; how old it is and what condition it’s in (i.e., worn out parts like seals, valves, and dampers).

How to Clean the Glass Doors of your Fireplace?

Your glass doors are the most beautiful part of your fireplace so it is important to keep them clean. The simplest way you can do this is by using a mixture of warm water and vinegar. Using a soft cloth, gently scrub away any dirt or stains with this solution.

Maintenance Tips for keeping your Gas Fireplaces in Good Condition

Regularly check the fireplace for any obstructions or damage to avoid a fire hazard.

Tips for Troubleshooting common problems with your Gas Fireplace

If you have a gas fireplace, there are certain troubleshooting tips that can help if your fireplace is not working. These solutions might be able to get your fire quickly back on track and save you from having to call the repair technician early in the season or just after it has started getting cold outside.

What are the issues with a gas fireplace?

While these components of your gas fireplace system are commonly behind some of the bigger issues your fireplace may have, other issues such as needing a gas valve replacement or a gas leak require the intervention of a professional.

Why won't my gas fireplace turn on?

The pilot light for your gas fireplace is an ignition source. If your fireplace won't turn on, it may be a simple matter of the pilot flame having been blown out. In order to find out, simply open the vent. You will be able to determine whether or not the small flame is out.

Can you fix a gas fireplace on your own?

One thing that makes fixing a gas fireplace so difficult and complex is finding the source of the issue. There could be multiple factors causing a single issue, so covering all your bases and eliminating potential culprits can be time-consuming and requires a level of expertise. However, there are some basic issues that you can repair on your own ...

How to clean cracked glass in fireplace?

Check the glass for cracks. Clean the glass with vinegar in a spray bottle, fireplace glass cleaner or another non-ammonia cleaning product. Wipe down the door trim and inspect for loose glass panes or cracked glass that can draw in air from your home.

How long does it take to service a gas fireplace?

Here are the steps necessary to service a gas fireplace. If you choose the DIY route, leave yourself about an hour to complete the job. Inspect the exterior. Make sure the unit is properly mounted and there are no gaps or cracks in the fireplace framework.

What to do if you don't have a carbon monoxide detector?

Dust bunnies, dead bugs, pet hair — all can accumulate in your gas fireplace, so this is the time to vacuum them out. Check carbon monoxide detectors. A routine fireplace service should also ensure the carbon monoxide monitors work. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide monitor installed near your fireplace, add one. Inspect the chimney.

How much does a gas fireplace cost?

Including materials and installation, a gas fireplace can cost from $2,000 to $4,500 and up. So be sure to protect your investment by getting your gas fireplace serviced regularly.

What are the signs of a gas fireplace?

With gas fireplaces, the biggest threat to the chimney is condensation. Damp patches on the walls, ceiling stains and white blotches on exterior masonry ( called efflorescence) are all signs of a compromised chimney. If you haven’t called in the pros yet, it’s time to make the call.

Do gas fireplaces need to be cleaned?

Even clean-burning gas fireplaces need regular cleaning and inspection. Learn what's involved in a gas fireplace service and when it should be done. According to industry magazine Hearth & Home, sales of gas fireplaces far outpace those of traditional wood-burning fireplaces.

Do you need a carbon monoxide monitor for a gas fireplace?

If you don’t have a carbon monoxide monitor installed near your fireplace, add one. Inspect the chimney. You don’t need a Mary Poppins-style chimney sweep for a gas fireplace, but you do need to inspect the external chimney structure and the interior walls in front of and around the chimney. With gas fireplaces, the biggest threat to ...

Gas Fireplace

A gas fireplace uses natural gas to heat your home. This no-fuss type of fireplace doesn’t require a chimney, but rather, uses just a pipe to remove any byproducts from your home. Many models allow you to control the flame using a remote or a thermostat, and this type of fireplace doesn’t produce smoke or buildup in your home or chimney.

Repair Cost

The gas fireplace repair cost that you’ll pay depends on what type of repair you need. The average fireplace repair price is between $40 and $60, but some repairs could cost as much as $2,000. Some of the most common repairs for a gas fireplace are failed pilot lights, fogged-up glass and issues with the remote control or thermostat system.

Wood Fireplace

A classic wood-burning fireplace lends unbeatable appeal to your living space. There’s just nothing like curling up by a fire on a cold afternoon. This type of fireplace requires a chimney to vent smoke and its byproducts out of your home, since these can cause health and safety hazards if left inside your home.

Electric Fireplace

If you’d like the beauty and aesthetics of a fireplace in your home with almost no maintenance cost, an electric

Pellet Fireplace

The pellet fireplace is rising in popularity today. That’s likely due to its super-efficient burn capability, and ease of use. Small pellets are made from byproducts of sawmills, making them an environmentally friendly option for those concerned with clean energy sources.

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Step 1 – Turn Off The Gas and Electricity

Step 2 – Determine The Problem

Step 3 – Fill The Crack Or Holes

Step 4 – Clean The Unit

Step 5 – Try Relighting The Pilot Light

  • If the pilot light has gone out, the fireplace will not be able to start up. Furthermore, turning off the gas to the insert before working on it, as a safety precaution, will have ensured that the pilot light is gone. So, to relight it, turn the gas and electricity back on and examine the gas valve located in the back of the fireplace. Make sure th...
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Step 6 – Replace The Thermocouple

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