What causes delayed ignition in a gas fireplace?

But if you want to learn the lingo, delayed ignition can be caused by: Too much primary air— Primary air is the air mixed with the gas before it’s ignited. Too little gas at the burners—Like too much air, not enough gas makes it hard for the gas-air mixture to ignite. This is can be caused by low gas supply pressure.

Can a gas fireplace explode?

Though very rare, gas fireplaces are susceptible to explosions and sudden fires. If the pilot light isn’t sitting properly when the gas begins to flow, gas may build up and explode. Regular checks of the pilot light are important to keep this from happening.

How do you clean a thermocouple on a 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.

What is pilot position on gas fireplace?

The pilot position on a gas fireplace is the position on the fireplace controls that is used to start the pilot flame. The pilot position is typically set on the control dial with either the dial depressed and turned, or used with a separate spark button to light the pilot flame.

Can a furnace catch on fire?

Yes, a furnace can catch fire. The following are reasons your furnace can catch fire: Your furnace’s air filter is blocked. Your furnace’s gas pressure is too high. There is a crack in your furnace’s heat exchanger.

Do gas fireplace need cleaning?

While gas fireplaces don’t produce creosote, they do still need annual cleaning. A chimney sweeping in your gas fireplace will help remove items like bird’s nests, animals, and any debris that may have gotten trapped in there as well any potential soot.

Should you smell gas from your fireplace?

Although it is normal for a fireplace to omit a slight odor, it is important to take proper precautions if you think you may smell a potential gas leak. If you smell a rotten egg smell around your natural gas fireplace, is important to leave your home immediately and contact your local utility service.

How long do gas fireplace inserts last?

As with most things, how long your fireplace insert lasts will depend on how well you take care of it. However, when properly maintained, a fireplace insert can last 20-30 years or more, making them a great investment in the future of your home.

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

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

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

The Fix: Pilot Light to Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit So you’ve checked your pilot light and even reset it, but still, it wont stay lit. This can be an indication that your fireplace thermocouple is either bad or worn out.

How long does a thermocouple last?

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.

Is it OK to leave the pilot light on in a gas fireplace?

Generally speaking, it is safe to leave your continuous pilot light on at all times, assuming it stays lit (more on this in a moment). While it does cost more to keep your pilot light on in between uses, it can actually have some benefits to your system.

How much does it cost to keep the pilot light on a gas fireplace?

Running a pilot light for 1 hour costs about 1 cent (0.62 cent/hour for natural gas and 1.64 cent/hour for propane). Monthly costs of running a pilot light range from $4.49/month (natural gas) to $11.34/month (propane).

Should I turn off the pilot light on my gas fireplace in the summer?

Your Utility Bill Perhaps the most important reason to turn off gas fireplace pilot light in summer is because of the money and energy you will be saving. If you leave the pilot light on during the summer it is simply sitting there burning gas, which is wasting gas and contributing to an exorbitant energy bill.

Is my furnace going to explode?

Although it is possible for a gas furnace to either catch fire or explode, it’s highly unlikely. If there is a danger of this happening, the furnace will usually simply shut off—as it’s designed to. If you’ve got a good furnace and take care of it, you won’t have to worry about explosions or fires.