How To Fix A Gas Fireplace That Keeps Shutting Off
Aside from clean burning fuel and adjustable heat, one of the main reasons for the popularity of gas fireplaces and inserts is the convenience of starting a fire with the push of a button. Using a button loses some appeal when you must keep pushing that button to re-light the fireplace. Not to worry, it can be repaired. Here is how to fix a gas fireplace that keeps shutting off.
Why Won’t My Gas Fireplace Stay Lit?
There are numerous possibilities as to why your gas fireplace won’t stay lit. The reasons range from simple to complex. It could be clogged burners, the pilot light, damage to heating components, and thermocouple/thermopile issues that could be the culprit.
The Anatomy of a Gas Fireplace
A gas fireplace structure is basically the same as any other, with a few differences. Here are the components that belong to a gas fireplace.
Pilot Light – The pilot light is probably the best-known part of a gas fireplace. A pilot light is a minute blue flame that ignites at your command and, in turn, ignites the gas.
Gas Line – The source that feeds gas into your fireplace.
Thermocouple – A sensor that controls how hot your fireplace gets.
Thermopile – A sensor that opens and shuts a gas valve when you turn the fireplace on.
Heating Elements – This is where the flame comes from, also called burner ports.
Oxygen Sensor – A sensor that determines if there is adequate oxygen in the room for the gas fireplace to operate.
How is the Problem with a Gas Fireplace Found?
Now that you know the components of a fireplace, you can better understand how they are inspected for any issues.
Heating Elements-
This is a simple fix; if the heating element’s ports are dirty, the fireplace simply won’t work, cleaning them will let them operate again.
Pilot Light-
Another simple fix; you may only need to reset it if it is out. As easy as that, but that is not always the case. If the flame on the pilot light isn’t blue but yellow or red, then it’s been contaminated, and the thermocouple may need to be replaced, or the gas line is compromised, or the pilot light itself is defective.
Thermocouple/Thermopile/Oxygen Sensor-
Each of these sensors should be checked to ensure they operate correctly. First to be checked is the thermopile to determine if the valve is allowing gas in. If it’s in working order, a multiuser is used to find problems with the thermocouple. Last, inspect the oxygen sensor to ensure it’s not automatically shutting down the system.
Use a Professional
As simple as it may seem, a gas fireplace is a complex appliance with more than one issue occurring at a time. The gas line can also be unstable and, therefore, dangerous. An amateur won’t be able to spot the same issues as a chimney sweep, and they are trained to deal with the various hazards a gas fireplace can present. You should hire a professional to repair your gas fireplace rather than try to do it yourself.
Northeastern Chimney Can Repair Your Gas Fireplace
Not only can we repair your gas fireplace or any other type, but we can also perform inspections to ensure your fireplace keeps working. Our chimney sweeps are certified and have the experience to solve fireplace problems right away. If you reside in Central Connecticut, we can help.
Our qualified chimney sweeps can take on any fireplace repair, inspect your chimney, and undertake any needed repairs. Call us today at 860-233-5770 or fill out our easy contact form.
One of our fireplace and chimney experts will be in touch to discuss what we can do for your chimney.