What is the switch on my gas fireplace for?

Author: Prof. Norberto Miller  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

The wall switch is a convenient feature that allows you to control the fireplace from anywhere in the room. It is connected to the fireplace's ignition system. When you flip the switch, it sends a signal to the ignition system to ignite the gas.

Why does my gas fireplace have a switch?

It's purpose is to light the big flame when you flip the switch on the wall to ``on'' to activate more gas flow and light the big fire. During Winter months, leave the pilot light (tiny flame) ON with the gas line ON. Then flip the wall switch to ignite the big flame whenever you need it.

What are the two switches on a gas fireplace for?

jerry : yes two wall switches are standard. One is for the fire and the other for the future optional fan.

Should the pilot light on my fireplace be on or off?

A: Yes, turning off the pilot light when the fireplace isn't in use, such as during the warmer months, can help save energy and reduce your gas bill.

Will a gas fireplace with a switch work without power?

You don't need electricity to operate this. As long as the pilot is lit then it'll ignite the flame. The switch is a dry context which closes a circuit allowing the gas valve to open.

Gas Fireplace Switches and Remotes

What is the on/off switch on a gas fireplace?

A gas fireplace control panel usually has a red igniter pilot knob and a control dial. The pilot knob should have the options “Off,” “Pilot” and, in some models, “On.” Here's how to light a gas fireplace with a control panel. Turn the knob from the “Off” to the “Pilot” position.

Why wont my gas fireplace start with the switch?

If you flick the switch and nothing happens, you need to do an inspection. Bypass your switch and see if a current flows through your wires. Odds are, you need to replace the switch and install a millivolt switch. You may need to clean or repair a broken wire.

Is it OK to leave pilot light on gas fireplace all the time?

Leaving the pilot light on consumes more gas, and it doesn't make sense to pay for it when you're not using it. Depending on gas prices in your area, the monthly savings may seem insignificant, but they add up.

Can pilot light cause carbon monoxide?

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.

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

LP gas is measured in terms of gallons. There are 92,000 BTU's per gallon. The price of one gallon of LP is $1.10, which means that you will have to pay roughly $5.20 every month to keep your pilot light on.

What is the knob on the side of my gas fireplace?

The gas valve knob is the junction between the main gas pipe and the gas fireplace. When closed, the gas valve knob prevents gas from flowing into the fireplace.

What is a rocker switch on a gas fireplace?

Rocker Switch. The Rocker Switch has three positions. The “ON” position (press the top part of the switch) turns the fire on. The “RS” position (press the bottom part of the switch) permits the remote control switch to turn the fire on and off. The neutral position (halfway between “ON” and “RS”) turns the fire off.

Should I turn off the gas to my fireplace when not in use?

The decision boils down to residual heat, gas usage, and the possibility of nesting spiders. Generally, we recommend turning off the gas pilot light during the summer months. But, remember to schedule fall fireplace maintenance so that a professional technician can inspect your fireplace and keep it in mint condition.

What is the function of the fireplace switch?

Basic Function of the Fireplace Switch

A gas fireplace switch is typically an electrical component that controls the ignition system of the fireplace.

How do I know if my gas fire is leaking carbon monoxide?

Signs of a carbon monoxide leak in your house or home

Sooty or brownish-yellow stains around the leaking appliance. Stale, stuffy, or smelly air, like the smell of something burning or overheating. Soot, smoke, fumes, or back-draft in the house from a chimney, fireplace, or other fuel burning equipment.

When should I be worried about a gas fireplace?

You start smelling strange odors

This smell should go away after three to four hours of use. A dirty fireplace with excessive pet hair or dust can also produce an odor. If you smell rotten eggs, call for help immediately, as you likely have a gas leak.

Will I smell gas if my pilot light is out?

If the pilot light goes out on a storage or instantaneous hot water heater, space heater or a ducted heater, you will not have a gas leak. This is because all modern gas appliances with pilot lights have a fail-safe device that closes off the gas to the appliance in the case when the pilot may go out.

Why is the pilot light on my gas fireplace always on?

The short answer is – you do not need to turn off your pilot light, and there is little risk in leaving it on all summer. Leaving it on is the simpler way to go. But, if you want to turn it off, you can, and there's no harm in that either.

What is the switch next to my fireplace?

The wall switch is a convenient feature that allows you to control the fireplace from anywhere in the room. It is connected to the fireplace's ignition system. When you flip the switch, it sends a signal to the ignition system to ignite the gas.

Should I turn off the gas fireplace in summer?

By turning off your gas fireplace in summer, you are saving on your heating. If you were to leave it on, it would continue to burn gas and warm your home to a certain extent. These types of fireplaces continue to give off some heat even if you are not actively using them.

Do gas fireplace switches go bad?

Switch Failure

A faulty switch may not turn the gas fireplace on or off properly, leading to frustration and inconvenience. It is important to inspect and troubleshoot the switch to determine if it is the cause of the problem.

What do I do if my gas fireplace won't turn off?

  1. Usually there is a rocker switch that is located around your burner which, if in the "ON" position, it will override the remote. Turn the switch to "OFF."
  2. There may be a wall switch that allows you to turn your burner on. Turn the switch to "OFF."
  3. A slide switch on the receiver has been moved to the "ON" position.

Is a fireplace switch the same as a light switch?

Unlike switches for lighting circuits, installing a fireplace switch can usually be done without removing a lot of drywall. This upgrade does not require running wire back to the main breaker panel like a general lighting circuit. The only wiring required runs from the wall switch to the fireplace gas valve.

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