Troubleshooting any appliance that involves gas as the power source is quite dangerous; if not careful, you can get yourself. For this reason, this article intends to equip you with the necessary knowledge plus a couple of other helpful information on why gas fireplace keeps going out. Before introducing the chimney, owning a fireplace remains one of the best ways people could heat themselves and cook in their homes.
Even today, some people are still using them to warm themselves during the winter seasons. In this 21st century, many people own gas fireplaces, replacing wood. But, they are associated with challenges like going out instead of staying lit.
Before we fix this issue, you must have essential knowledge and factors that may make your gas go out. Some of the common reasons for this issue include; dirty oxypilot or thermocouple.
Why my gas fireplace won’t stay on?
A gas fireplace with a failed valve or sensor will challenge you to keep it lit for 20 minutes or an hour. On most occasions, this implies that either your thermopile or oxypilot needs cleanliness. The oxypilot plays a vital role in monitoring the oxygen of your fireplace.
On the other hand, the thermopile monitors the temperature of your fireplace. So, check the two components; if they aren’t dirty, you must replace them. Rarely, a fireplace that keeps going out can be due to a gas leak. But, this situation is highly unusual that comes with multiple problems.
How the pilot operates in your gas fireplace
Lighting up a gas fireplace starts by adjusting the pilot light towards the on position. Sometimes you may be forced to hold it for a few seconds to allow the fire to pick up. Be careful while starting up the fire to observe the progress.
Once the fire is lit, you will see two flames, i.e., one above the burner while the other over the thermopile. If the fireplace has a dirty pilot, cleaning can be a better solution; else, the flame will be feeble. This will lead to dropped temperature, shut off gas, and lifted away flame from the thermocouple.
Additionally, about the nature of the flame, the outer flame should be dark blue and sky blue in the center. A yellow pilot light can imply excess air, dust, oil, dirt, and grime in the system.
How the oxypilot operates
This sensor is designed to put out a gas fire under an insufficient oxygen supply in the room. Yeah, it’s a safety technology that spares you from carbon poisoning.
So, the oxygen percentage, once dropped in the room, changes the flame shape. Heat is eliminated from the thermopile, and then the gas valve goes off.
How to fix gas Fireplace Keeps Going Out (troubleshooting)
A fireplace that keeps on shutting off can be annoying; let it not be the end of everything. Some of the issues you are experiencing from your gas fireplace are fixable. Below are some of the steps to prevent your gas fire from going out.
Step 1: Put off the gas
Don’t you ever attempt to have any gas fireplace issue with a running gas in the unit? As I mentioned above, gas and fire, when combined, are dangerous. You can lead to a fire break and burn down your house.
Step 2: Cleaning your thermocouple
The first thing to do will be to check the status of the thermocouple before diagnosing other issues. Inspect for a stick that resembles a thermometer; that’s the thermocouple.
You want to ensure the component is in the pilot direction. After spotting the part, the next thing will be to grab sandpaper to scarp down the dust, grime, or whatever from the tip of your thermocouple. Remember, doing so will remove any oxidation or soot, retaining the workability of the device.
Step 3: Testing your fireplace
In most cases, the thermopile touch-up can be an excellent solution to retain your fireplace in good working condition. Here, you need to turn on the gas and light it. If it keeps on going off, it is now time to switch the gas and move to the next step.
Step 4: Inspect your oxypilot
Under this step, you need to have a screwdriver with you. Unscrew the component to remove it. Furthermore, experts recommend using a straw for blowing through each hole of the oxypilot.
Doing so will allow you to clear any dust and soot that could be affecting the smooth airflow. Therefore, after cleaning the oxypilot chamber, reinstall it and test if the problem is fixed. If the challenge persists, move on to the next step.
Step 5: Testing the fireplace again
If you test and it works, you’re through with the troubleshooting process; the issue is fixed. Your efforts end there; no need to advance to the next troubleshooting stage. However, if the fireplace continues to misbehave, try to look for another part that could be problematic.
Your gas fireplace may have another problem because one issue may lead to many others.
Step 6: Cleaning the gas entry of the pilot
Sometimes dust might be the exact reason your fireplace is misbehaving; it can destroy the mood. So, I would recommend using a piece of cloth to clear out any dust you will meet. Also, you can use a blower to drive the dust, though it may not remove stubborn dust particles.
Step 7: Sensor and oxypilot replacement
If the fireplace keeps showing the initial problem, maybe it’s time to go for a replacement. Replacing the oxypilot or sensor can be an excellent solution to your fireplace that keeps going out. Under this stage, I recommend seeking the help of an expert because it involves part replacements.
But, if you have the necessary skills and knowledge of replacement, go on and do it yourself. It would help if you were careful about replacing the existing parts with the right ones and doing the job correctly. Any mess can ruin the need for a replacement.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I fix an issue with the thermocouple?
Of course, this is a minor and common issue experienced among gas fireplaces. Fixing the problem is simple as you only have to carry thorough cleanliness. Use fine-grit sandpaper to scrap out soot from the device’s tip.
If you’ve Magic Eraser in your store, don’t hesitate to use it too. Replace the item if it’s completely worn out.
- Should I have a chimney for my gas fireplace?
Yes. The chimney is essential in increasing ventilation. However, some fireplaces don’t need a chimney; they are referred to as vent-free fireplaces.
- Can I mount a Television over my gas fireplace?
Yes, though it sounds risky. Do so only when the fireplace heat and smoke are appropriately contained. Besides, the fireplace should be at a great distance from the TV and adequately ventilated. Also, remember to use robust equipment while mounting your TV.
You might be interested to read also: Can I Run My Gas Fireplace Without the Fan
Final words
Hopefully, the above information helps you fix the gas fireplace that goes out. Yes, it contains a handy ultimate step-by-step guide to take you through the entire troubleshooting process. Besides, there is other helpful information that you need to know why your gas fireplace keeps going out.
All in all, maintaining your fireplace is necessary, and you can achieve this by regular checkups and cleanliness.
