To light a gas fireplace pilot light, locate the gas control valve (typically behind the lower grille). Turn the dial to OFF and wait 5 minutes for gas to clear. Turn to PILOT, press and hold the knob, repeatedly click the igniter, and hold the knob down for 30–60 seconds after the pilot flame appears. Finally, turn the dial to ON.
Yes, you can safely relight a water heater pilot light yourself. Most units have a convenient push-button spark igniter, though some older models require a long match. Always air out the area first, and if you ever smell a strong sulfur or rotten egg odor, do not attempt to light it and call your gas provider immediately.
14 Common Gas Fireplace Problems & What to Do
Relighting a Pilot Light
It's sometimes called the “flame sensor.” It shuts the gas off if the pilot goes out. Gas that flows through your furnace could enter your house if the thermocouple fails to turn it off. Protecting your home from gas buildup is the thermocouple.
If your pilot light goes out, the fireplace simply will not turn on. Most modern gas fireplaces feature a built-in safety mechanism—such as a thermocouple or thermopile—that automatically stops the main flow of gas if the flame is extinguished, preventing dangerous gas leaks.
Push the igniter button once every second until it lights. Depending on how long it's been since the gas fireplace was last used, ignition may take multiple attempts. After the pilot lights, keep the pilot button held down about 15 to 30 seconds to warm up the thermocouple and ensure that the flame stays lit.
Any pilot lights on your appliances will go out if your propane tank runs out -– a problem that can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly.
SIGNS OF PILOT LIGHT ISSUES
A weak or flickering light indicates dirt accumulation or blockages in the pilot light assembly. This results in hindering gas flow. The consistent extinguishing of a pilot light is another sign that indicates a faulty thermocouple or problems with the gas supply.
Pilot Light Issues: The pilot light may go out due to a blocked or damaged thermocouple. Relighting is typically inexpensive unless the thermocouple requires replacement, which can range between $120 and $300.
In most cases, a pilot light that goes out once can be safely relit. However, if it keeps going out repeatedly, it's a tell-tale sign that professional service is likely needed. Safety Disclaimer: Always follow manufacturer instructions and prioritize safety when working with gas appliances.
Lighting a gas pilot requires safely clearing built-up gas, turning the control knob to the "pilot" position, and pressing it down to release gas. While holding the knob, ignite the pilot using an igniter or match, and hold the knob down for 30–60 seconds before turning it to "on".
To manually light a gas fireplace with a standing pilot, locate the control knob (often labeled OFF, PILOT, and ON) and the gas valve, usually behind a bottom grille.
To relight a gas fireplace pilot light, turn the control knob to the "Off" position, wait 5 minutes for any gas to clear, then turn it to "Pilot". Push and hold the knob in while pressing the igniter button. Continue holding the knob for 30–60 seconds, then slowly release it.
A pilot light going out is not always dangerous, but it should be addressed quickly. Most modern furnaces include safety features that shut off the gas supply if the pilot flame goes out. However, if you smell gas or cannot safely relight the pilot light, you should contact an HVAC professional immediately.
Answer: A pilot light is a small flame that burns continuously in a gas furnace until heat is needed, whereas an electric ignition only activates when the furnace calls for heat. The electric ignition either uses a hot surface element or an intermittent spark to light the burners.
Yes, if a pilot light goes out, you will often smell a faint or noticeable odor. Natural gas is naturally odorless, but utility companies add a distinct chemical called mercaptan, which smells like rotten eggs or sulfur, so you can easily detect it.
Sleeping in the same room as an open flued gas appliance (back boiler or gas fire) contravenes the gas safety regulations and puts your life in danger. If you are found to be sleeping in the same room as an open flued appliance during one of our visits, your gas heating appliance will be capped off for safety reasons.
Increase Safety: While a pilot light is not a significant fire hazard, there is a small risk that it could cause a gas leak. The summer heat could ignite the fuel, resulting in a fire or explosion.
Aire Serv explains how to safely relight a pilot light on your furnace or appliance. Turn off the appliance and wait several minutes for gas to dissipate. Locate the pilot light assembly and set the control knob to "pilot." Hold down the reset button and use a lighter to ignite the pilot.
Yes, you should turn the gas valve to the Off position immediately.
Lighting a pilot light takes about 3 to 10 minutes total, with the physical process of igniting the flame and holding the gas button taking roughly 30 to 60 seconds.