Can I start a gas fireplace with a lighter?

Author: Kyla Homenick  |  Last update: Thursday, April 30, 2026

Place a long lighter next to the burner and pull the fuel trigger. (You can also use a lit match.) You may need an assistant if the slot is out of reach from the burner. Turn the key in the slot to open the gas valve.

Can I light a gas fireplace with a lighter?

Assuming all works well, do it just like you would with a grill that the igniter is busted. A long fireplace match, or one of those long neck refillable butane lighters. Light the match/lighter and put it in front of the gas outlet. Slowly turn the gas on, and remove the match/lighter.

Is it safe to manually light a gas fireplace?

Gas fireplaces can rapidly become a fire or carbon monoxide hazard. Before getting started, be sure to review your manual, keep any flammable objects at a 3 feet distance, avoid touching the fireplace gas until you're certain it's cool, and regularly test all carbon monoxide detectors.

Why is my gas fireplace igniter sparking but not lighting?

If your fireplace doesn't light but you still have a spark, check the pilot light. Downdrafts or a worn-out pilot light will prevent your gas fireplace from turning on. You'll need a repair pro to install a new pilot light.

Is it OK to leave pilot light lit on gas fireplace?

Generally, leaving the pilot light on is safe, and you may decide to do this for a few reasons. For example, you want to use your outdoor fireplace on those cooler summer evenings. The pilot flame can also help prevent spiders from building webs in your fireplace, insert, or stove.

How to Turn On Gas Fireplace With Wall Key

Why wont my gas fireplace turn on?

If your gas fireplace refuses to turn on, begin to troubleshoot by checking that the gas supply valve is fully open. If it isn't, simply open it and try again. Then, ensure that the pilot light is lit – more on that soon. If the problem persists, examine the electrical components.

How do I relight the pilot light on my gas fireplace?

While pressing and holding in the black knob, press the RED igniter button repeatedly; the pilot will generally light with two or three pushes on the igniter. 4. Once the pilot is lit, continue to hold the valve knob in for 30 seconds, then release the knob and it will pop back out. The pilot should remain lit.

Can you convert a gas fireplace from pilot light to electronic ignition?

Yes, many traditional gas fireplaces can be converted to electronic ignition with a conversion kit. Consult with a professional to see if your fireplace is compatible and to perform the conversion safely.

How to relight a pilot light without an igniter?

If it doesn't have the button, or the button fails, press the regulator valve and hold a grill lighter or long match to the pilot light valve until the pilot ignites. Hold the button down for up to a minute to ensure that the light stays lit. Turn the gas regulator valve to the “on” position.

Can I leave my gas fireplace on all night?

The answer to “is it safe to leave a gas fireplace on all night” is no. There is no gas-burning fireplace that would be guaranteed safe to run all night while you and your family are sleeping.

Can I use a lighter to light my gas heater?

Light a lighter or long match, bringing the flame close to the pilot light opening as you press and hold down the reset button. Keep the reset switch depressed until the pilot light is burning steadily. Then, release the button.

Can I light my gas fireplace without electricity?

In addition, all direct vent gas fireplaces are sealed, keeping emissions out, and are vented to the exterior of your home using the natural buoyancy of warm air (warm air rises), meaning no electricity is needed to operate your gas fireplace or gas fireplace insert safely.

How do you manually light a gas fireplace pilot?

Using a long match or long-barreled lighter, press and hold down the gas control knob with the lit match or lighter until the pilot lights. The pilot should start immediately once the flame is close enough. Once the pilot is lit, hold the button down for about 20 seconds until the thermocouple has time to heat up.

Why won't my gas fireplace turn on when I flip the switch?

The most common cause of this problem is a bad thermocouple. This is the "tube" that is in contact with the pilot flame and leads back to your thermostat/gas valve. It is relativly inexpensive and can be found at most hardware stores.

What is the most common problem with a gas fireplace?

One of the most common problems faced by homeowners with gas fireplaces is the pilot light going out or not staying lit. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner, which produces the heat for your fireplace — if the pilot light goes out, your fireplace won't work.

How much does it cost to replace a gas fireplace igniter?

Gas fireplace igniter replacement cost

A gas fireplace igniter costs $90 to $150 to replace, including labor. This component uses electricity to ignite the gas and start the fire. Over time, the igniter may stop working from age or damage.

Can a pilot light cause carbon monoxide poisoning?

Pilot lights can be a source of carbon monoxide because the by-products of combustion are released inside the home rather than vented to the outside. Gas ovens and ranges should be monitored closely and kept in good working order.

Why is my gas fireplace not lighting but the pilot is on?

If your pilot is lit and the fireplace isn't igniting when you push the button or flip the switch, the igniter may be dirty or defective. Clear away any dirt or debris that may be in the way between the igniter and thermocouple or thermopile.

How to turn on a gas fireplace with a light switch?

It's easy to know how to turn on a gas fireplace with an electronic ignition wall switch. Many gas fireplaces come equipped with a wall switch control panel for activating the unit and adjusting the level of the flame. Simply push the “On” button and the pilot should ignite.

How do you start a fireplace fire without a Firestarter?

How to light a fire without firelighters?
  1. Egg Boxes: Made from cardboard, egg boxes provide excellent kindling. ...
  2. Tea Lights: Placing a tea light under logs can warm up the wood and ignite it. ...
  3. Newspaper: Crumple sheets of newspaper as a firelighter.

Are gas log lighters safe?

Log lighters need to be installed and connected to a natural gas or propane gas fuel source by a professional gas technician. Incorrectly installing a log lighter in your home or improperly running lines or connecting it to a fuel source is dangerous.

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