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.
Over time corrosion can build up on the ignition electrodes that can cause their spark to diminish. Restricted air flow can also impact ignition. Cleaning the burner head and electrode with a brass bristle brush to remove corrosion/ restrictions in the burner head slits is a good place to start.
Generally if the ignition sparks but does not ignite, the gas valve is defective, or stuck shut.
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.
In the back of the burner, there is a small hole that feeds the gas through the igniter. Sometimes it can get blocked with grease or grime, which stops the gas from igniting. Use a toothpick or needle to give the hole a good clean. Put the burner back on the stove, and check if it now ignites.
If your gas stove isn't lighting despite the clicking sound, it could be due to several factors. Common causes include gas leaks, faulty ignition systems, clogged burner ports, or issues with the gas supply.
Most likely, your furnace is making a clicking noise and not providing heat because your furnace's spark igniter is trying to ignite your pilot light or burners but is failing to do so. In other words, there's an ignition system malfunction that needs to be fixed. Otherwise, your furnace won't start.
If the lighter sparks but will not light, check the lead wire. The wire may be arcing back to the lighter frame. If this is the case, push the lead wire toward the burner. This will create a closer connection and allow the spark to go from the lead wire to the burner.
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.
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.
If the igniter is glowing, but the burner is not lighting, the igniter may be weak and still be at fault because it requires a certain amount of current draw to open the valve. This check requires the use of an amp meter and should be performed by a qualified person.
There are several issues that could affect your boiler and cause it to stop igniting, such as faulty fan or gas valve, frozen pipes and others discussed in the following section. Try checking if your gas oven or hobs are turning on to check if your home has a sufficient supply.
Check the Spark Igniter
If gas is coming out of the pilot but it still won't light, the spark igniter could be the problem. You should clear out any debris between the igniter and thermocouple. Blow compressed air into the pilot area, wait a couple of minutes, and then try again to see if this fixes the problem.
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.
Common Signs of a Failing Thermocouple
Here are some common indicators: Difficulty Lighting the Fireplace: If you struggle to light your fireplace, or if it takes several tries to keep the pilot lit, it could suggest that the thermocouple is not sensing the flame correctly and is failing to keep the gas supply open.
Turn the ON/OFF/PILOT knob to the 'OFF' position and wait for five minutes to clear out any residual gas. After waiting, press and hold the ON/OFF/PILOT knob. Then, press the igniter button repeatedly (as per the manual's instructions, usually for about 30 seconds) until the pilot ignites.
Signs of Gas Valve Problems
Difficulty in igniting the fireplace or inconsistent flame. Sudden or unexplained loss of flame during operation.
Things You Should Know. If your lighter's wheel isn't spinning, use a cotton swab or toothpick to clean out any rust or dirt that's blocking it. If your lighter's flame is small or completely nonexistent, refuel it with a butane can and/or loosen the nozzle that releases fuel so more comes out.
The problem with your ignition could be as simple as the burner, valves and ignition being clogged with food and grease that may have built up over time. Before inspecting, make sure that the gas supply is switched off, then inspect the areas which could be impacting your ignition.
Cause: The igniter may be damaged, worn out, misaligned, or covered in debris. How to Troubleshoot and Fix: Inspect the igniter for visible damage or misalignment. Ensure the igniter is clean.
Your Gas Control Valve will make a clicking sound when it opens to allow gas to flow to the main burner. This is a normal part of the operating system.
A worn-out igniter can periodically fail, and if it keeps trying to light the gas, your furnace will make a clicking sound. The noise may last until the flame ignites or the gas valve closes.