Can you manually light a gas fireplace?

Author: Rocky Rohan  |  Last update: Friday, November 14, 2025

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 you light a gas fireplace without the pilot light?

A pilot light on a gas fireplace, insert or stove maintains a tiny flame in order to allow for quick starts of the appliance. Natural gas fuel is only good when it burns, and without a pilot light, you'd have to manually light the gas every time you want to use your heating appliance.

Can you manually light a gas fireplace with electronic ignition?

Sure. If your are using an extended length lighter (which you should), light it, hold it by the burner you wish to light, and then turn on the burner control. The electric ignition will start clicking but it will likely already be lit.

Why is my gas fireplace not igniting gas?

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.

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

Is It Dangerous if The Pilot Light Goes Out? The worry here is that when a pilot goes out, the gas valve that supplies the fuel for the pilot flame could still be pumping gas. This can mean a buildup of gas, and when the pilot is relit or relights itself, it could result in a very serious explosion.

✨ Gas Fireplace Won’t Light🔥 (FIXED) ✨

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.

Which is better, gas fireplace pilot light or electronic ignition?

Energy Efficiency: IPI systems are more energy-efficient than standing pilot ignition. The pilot light only ignites when the fireplace is in use, reducing gas consumption and energy costs.

Is gas fireplace pilot always on?

When a gas fireplace is turned on, the gas going into the fireplace hits this flame. In doing so, the pilot light serves as an ignition point for the entire fireplace. The pilot light needs to run continuously because, without it, the gas going into the fireplace would not have an ignition point.

Can I light a gas fireplace with a lighter?

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.

How do you start a fireplace without gas?

Steps to build a fire in your fireplace
  1. Gather your firewood. ...
  2. Create the base. ...
  3. Place newspaper (or other tinder) underneath the grate. ...
  4. Add the remaining logs on top. ...
  5. Place kindling in the middle of the logs. ...
  6. Start the fire by lightning the newspaper sheets. ...
  7. Put the fireplace screen in place and enjoy.

Why is my gas fireplace difficult to start?

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 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.

What to do if the pilot light won't light on a gas fireplace?

This typically involves turning off the gas, waiting a few minutes, and using a match or igniter to relight the pilot. In addition, a weak or flickering flame may be due to dirt or debris blocking the pilot light. Cleaning the orifice and surrounding area can improve its performance.

Can I manually light my pilot light?

If you don't see a spark when you press the igniter button or you can't get the pilot to light, you can try to manually light it with a match or stick lighter. Once you see the pilot flame, you will need to continue to hold the control knob in for around 30 seconds.

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.

Can I turn off pilot light on gas fireplace?

Once you have located the flame, you can move the knob from the “pilot” position to the “off” position. Depending on your model of fireplace, you may be required to push a little lever out of the way before you can turn the dial.

Is it safe in the house if pilot light goes out on fireplace?

A pilot light may need to be re-lit from time to time after being extinguished on purpose or by accident. If it is accidentally extinguished, there exists a danger that the gas used to keep the flame lit will continue to vent, possibly into the living space.

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