We had 3 fireplaces that were not working. Called a repair man and he indicated all three needed new fireplace burnpans at $2,500 each. After researching the issue, pilot light would stay on but fireplace would not light, online I ran across your video. Cleaned the the thermocouple and thermopile as shown in your video and all 3 fireplaces are working perfectly. As I am recently widowed, your video was a blessing to me. Thank you sooooo very much!!! May you be blessed for your willingness to share your knowledge.
Some people complaining about the name of the parts. I don't care what they call it as long as you helped me fix my fireplace is all that matters. You are helping us DIYers a ton. Thank you thank you thank you😊😊😊😊😊😊
The reason that you ‘hold the pilot in’ is not so much because ‘it takes a while for the gas to flow;’- although it’s true that a long-unused fireplace might take some time before gas in the line arrives. But having users hold that for a long time before sparking the piezo lighter, could result in gas build-up that would be disconcerting if not alarming once someone commences sparking the lighter. (best practice is to be activating the piezo lighter button in a continuous sequence anytime the pilot’s gas control knob is pressed in. The main reason you need to hold the knob in, for some 10 to 30 seconds AFTER a pilot flame appears, is to allow the sensing thermocouple to build up enough heat to signal that a flame is indeed present, and that it is safe to allow gas flow to the pilot orifice, even after user releases the knob. If you release the knob too quickly and the pilot goes out, it is because the thermocouple did not sense enough heat to open the circuit that allows pilot gas to flow automatically. It’s job is to assure that there is never free-flowing gas to the pilot without the security of a pilot FLAME being present at the same time. This prevents gas build-up in the firebox. The Thermopile behaves similarly, ‘refusing’ to answer the call for burner gas (not pilot gas) to flow to the log set area, unless a flame is present. When a thermopile is oxidized as seen in this video, its sensing property becomes faulty and so it defaults to refusing to light.
You are truly generous in putting these three videos on how to fix problems in natural gas fireplace. In many areas you even do not find people to fix such things and if you do find someone, the charges are extremely high for even simple problems like cleaning the pilot assembly. I had an issue on a Lennox (ModelP MPD40RNE) on the pilot and a local person I called to fix it. He cleaned it and it worked for a while; but occasionally the flame would go out. Then he suggested I buy a replacement pilot assembly (Part# H7268) and he will replace. I did not buy it right away, but cleaned it a few times and it worked. I have managed it for the last three years. It is one of those units where the outlet sits directly on the outside wall. I learned from that person on how to clean the glass also and did a recent clean wipe of the glass. Now I am finding issues with it again. Can you please help? Here are the details: 1. It has a wall switch 2. Below the fireplace, there is an on-off red switch. I did not pay much attention to it earlier, but today while cleaning, I turned it on and it created little flame. I assume it is something to help in ignition/ 3. I do have a knob that says low and high for gas flow I assume 4. When I try to put the wall switch on with the bottom pilot switch off, it created sparks and the pilot came lit, but then the fireplace did not ignite. I tried the same thing again by turning the wall switch on, then turned the red ignition switch below and the flame came out fully, but then it died. I have done a cleaning of the pilot assembly with very fine sand paper as you describe. I am confused about the issue. I shot a few short videos and if you wish, I can send those to you (not sure how to do that here). Any help will be appreciated. Ray
Hi Ray, its really hard to troubleshoot without being there, but if you turn the wall switch off, turn the glow knob to high and turn the red switch on does the pilot light? Will the switch then turn the burner on?
My gas fireplace wasn't staying lit, then wasn't lighting at all. Found your video before calling my local fireplace service repair store. Cleaning the thermopile and thermocouple with 220 grit sand paper did the trick and I'm sure saved me hundreds of dollars. Thank you for a very thorough and detailed video. Much appreciated.
Had a similar issue. After a few failed trouble shooting attempts I contacted a service rep. The issue turned out to be an occluded pilot light. The jet was fine, however the pilot has a venturi that draws in air. The venturi pulled in a small amount of lint which changed the shape of the flame, not allowing it to heat the thermocouple property. I happen to have a engine carburetor jet cleaning kit which had a good supply of cleaning wires and pipe cleaner type brushes. A quick cleaning with one of the brushes, a vacuum and some more cleaning of the thermopile, thermocouple and burner with a brass brush did the trick. Thanks for the video 👍🏻
You just saved me $300 by not hiring a fireplace company. I cleaned with emery cloth/small wire brush and vaced it all out. Took about an hour. Thank you!!
Mike, thank you! My gas fireplace in the primary bedroom hasn't worked for two years. Getting a professional to come to the house has been impossible. Having watched your fireplace videos the problem was easily solved. Works like a charm now. Thank you from a new subscriber.
Thank you! After almost 20 years of having our fireplace, it wouldn't light yesterday. Thanks to you, I had it up and running within a few minutes! 😁⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you so much. I finally fixed it immediately after watching this video. I tried to use wipes and toothbrush to clean and didn't work. Finally I used the fine sand paper. It succeeded! Thank you!!!
The video worked perfectly. I was able to clean up the fireplace so that the burner stays on (it hasn't shut off for six hours now). Thank you for putting the video together in such a complete and easy-to-follow manner; it saved me $150 that they wanted for a basic service call! Again, thank you!
Thanks for the video, very informative ! We have a Monessen fp log.setup. Remote switch nor the fp switch would turn on the burners. Doing as you demonstrated i checked the remote switch and it was good . Then cleaned the thermopile. Relit the fp thermocouple and we have light off ! Thanks again.
Worked like a charm. I am a widow but I got it cleaned and so far it is working. The pilot light has been going out after about 5 days. Wait and see!! Thank you for the detailed video
Helpful tip! I would highly recommend using a scotch Brite pad to clean thermopiles. Especially for customers who have annual maintenance done on these as recommended by most manufactures. Using sand paper will ruin thermopiled and thermocouples very quickly by shaving the metal off. Great video!
Thanks mines a out side fireplace. but I believe your right, if this thing was cleaned ? I think it just might be My Best Buy for my patio so guess I’ll be pulling it apart 😬😜👍
Thank you!!!! Worked perfectly for my fire pit table & thankfully didn’t have to sand anything. A leaf blower has been the godsend for blowing the lava rock particles out.
Mine has been used all winter. Now staying lit 5-10 min only. I’ve cleaned parts using Vac & toothbrush, but not sandpaper/scrubber. Giving that a try next.
Your fireplace looks the same as mine, without the glass doors. Mine is not lighting even with a new switch installed last year so I'll try cleaning everything and see if that works. Thanks for your videos.
Cleaning the pilot burner and office is very important for having a sharp,hot pilot flame that allows the thermopile to generate the maximum millivolts needed for operation.A clean pilot also allows smoother ignition of the main burner.Another common problem with these units is the millivolt loss through the wall switch,these switches were made for 120 volts,not millivolts.(Too much resistance through the switch contacts).
Thank you so much your video is very handy I did everything you said and now my fireplace works perfectly thanks to you 😄have a merry Christmas and a blessed and happy year . And keep the good instructions.😊
I used to turn my pilot light off in the Summer months, but that always meant a greater chance of the fireplace not starting in the Fall. I kept it on all year last year and had no problems when it got cold and I needed it. This year, with the high price of gas, I turned it off. I figured I would turn it on weekly to keep it clean of debris. This plan worked until the other day. The pilot went on no problem, but burner would not light. I had to do a big clean up with compressed air and vacuuming and it finally worked. Do you recommend leaving the pilot on all year to make sure it keeps it clean and free of dust and webs that prevent the burner from igniting? Thanks very much.
Personally, I hate wasting energy and so I turn mine off. I do end up having to fiddle with it when I turn it back on in the winter, but it's only a few minutes. I guess it comes down to personal preference.
@@MikeKlimek Thank you very much for getting back to me. I completely agree with you about saving energy, but I’m just not that skilled in fiddling with it to trust is going to work without having to call a service tech. Can I ask one more question please… Are there benefits to the fireplace, besides it working right away when you need it, to keeping the pilot light on? Thank you so much again
Thanks for the tips, Mike. Had to rewatch the video .. had same problem two years ago .. watched your video the first time, and it worked. Well, it worked again just now .. One thing I might add: some furnaces (like mine) don't have a spark mechanism, so you have to light the pilot light manually with a match to get things going .. no big deal. Thanks again ..
mine is the same but the pilot light won't stay lit on it's own. cleaned as you showed and left gas knob on for a long time but the moment I release it pilot light goes out.
Same here. What else could be the issue? I just installed a brand new piolet assembly and it still won't stay lit in the on position. Could it be in the gas line?
Great video sir… I did all of what you mentioned… clean air-clean vacuumed..pilot stay lit but the fireplace burned for about 5 minutes then went off… Time for a new thermocouple?
@@MikeKlimek I went back in and removed the rack and fake wood and re-cleaned it and it is working so far. Per Google the lifespan of the thermocouple is approx 10 years and this system is 17 years old… I guess I am on borrowed time 😂. I decided to purchase a new thermocouple/thermophile so that the next time it stop working I replace thermocouple/thermophile/pilot etc. I found/ordered the replacement part using the model number etc on amazon. Thanks for responding to my question. Barrington
As many others have commented, GREAT video and very helpful!!!! I followed instructions and got some improvement as pilot light stays lit now and actually is much easier to light than it had been before. However, after I move it to on and it finally stays on after doing this I think I'm golden but then a few minutes later I hear kind of a 'click' and then pilot turns off?? Any thoughts on this? You have a video for this issue? lol
This video was right, but my fireplace had one extra thing I needed to do and that was to use canned air to blow out the gas jet holes and all the cobwebs around the burner and control switches. After all that, it worked like a charm. Saved me a couple thousand by not needing a whole new set up.
Be careful with that canned air. I used that crap once and didn't wait long enough for the flammable gases it has in it to clear from the fireplace before lighting the pilot and it basically created a fireball that singed all my facial hair. Good thing I don't have much left on top or it could have been an all out disaster.
Great tutorial! Now that it is working (I'm a new homeowner of old gas fireplace) do I have to turn the pilot off after every use or leave the pilot burning during cold weather so all I have to do is use the wall switch each tie I want to have a fire?
This worked for me. Thank you so much. I had the pilot on but the rest of the valves were not coming on. I cleaned them a few times and flipped the switch and they came on. Note when i flipped the switch I had to wait 1-2 minutes, so anyone with this issue give it a few minutes once you flip the switch. It takes time. I realize I was turning the swith off too soon. One thing I dont understand is the design of these fireplaces. It is so much work to pull the bottom, pilot, on, then put the piece back on, then the fake wood pieces, then the on switch. Couldnt we just have one switch?
We cleaned the components as you suggested and then used an air compressor to get the remaining residue out of our fireplace. Worked like a charm and saved us some serious cash too! Thank you so much!
Thanks for your video and the follow on one. I cleaned my thermopile and got a reading of 365. It would not light when I crossed the wires at the switch but did light when I used the paper clip on the terminals. However it will not stay lit when I remove the paper clips. Where do I go from here?
The problem will be from the terminals, wires, switch, or a combination of them. Start by cleaning the terminals, may have to replace the wiring and/or switch as well
Hi Mike, thanks for the video! Our Hunter Selene 6 stove is not working any longer. It just didn’t start anymore last week. Then it was cleaned. The enginieer tried everything and it looks like an air intake issue. The gas fireplace turns on when the glass is off. The very left flame is very yellow and big. But it won’t give a pilot flame when the glass is in place. The blast flap gasket is fallen in pieces. Do you have an idea what to do? Regards, Julia
@@MikeKlimek Hi, thanks for the quick reply. He was up at our place again and cleaned one more time. Worked afterwards. So maybe it was something stuck 😊
I've got this same fireplace. Thanks for the visual on how to put back the logs btw. There's a few places you can break continuity on the fireplace. Instead of testing across the wall switch, I tested from where the wire comes in the fireplace to where it completes the loop. Wall switch was good, the temperature limit switch was good, the thermopile was getting voltage, and the damper switch was reading ~3 ohms. I jiggled the handle and it bounced around. I got it to go down to ~1 ohm and the fireplace came on. When I moved into the place, the home inspector said 90% of the time they can't get a fireplace to come on, it's something to do with the damper safety switch. I'll have to take the front panel off to see if there's a loose connection, a dirty switch, weak spring, etc... might just need to replace the damper switch. We'll see.
I have an older system. My pilot light lights up properly after I press in the gas knob and manually light it. However, once I release the gas knob, the pilot light goes out regardless of how long I hold the gas knob in. Any thoughts?
I would guess either the thermopile or the pilot is poor. What does the flame look like from the pilot? Solid blue or are there yellow/orange tips on the ends?
Thanks for this video! I have never owned a gas appliance before and am "afraid" of gas. I guess mostly because I'm not familiar with it. This video makes it seem so simple. I am a DIYer and was about to call a serviceman to come to the house. Thanks to your video, now I don't have to!
I have a fireplace that only has a wall switch but also a control box or brain box It lights but won’t stay lit. I had a repair person that I was watching but I did not see him use sand paper or attempt to clean the parts like in this video. Did use the reset button and now said I need to replace the Control box or brain for $850. Does this sound right? Left a play of soot in front of my fireplace. Not feeling right about this. What do you suggest?
Awesome video now how do I clean my fan on my ultimate illusion log heater do you know anything about how to blow the fan blower out,I did this last year and cleaned all the holes in the burner,looks like I will have to do it again
Great video i got mine work too but only manually from the switch in the pilot. But the remote it doesn’t work i changed all the batteries and still not working do you have any recommendations?
I had the similar issue. Had no problems using the fireplace beginning of year until March. Turned everything off til today 10/30. Pilot light struggled to turn on. Only scrub I had was a scrub daddy so cut it in half and used his mouth to clean. The pilot now came on easily, but the fire wouldn't turn on by the switch. Left the switch in the on position and the fire came on after about 15 minutes and now turns on and off fine. Not sure why it had to warm up to work.
I replaced my entire igniter assembly which includes the sparker, pilot and thermopile. Sometimes after the burner lights it runs a minute or so then shuts off. I didnt clean the burner so Im wondering if thats the issue or is my gas valve the issue
This method also works on your furnace and BBQ. If your your furnace wouldn’t ignite turn the power off, remove igniter and clean with steel wool or Scotchbrite pad , then reinstall. I’ve made this a yearly thing to spend 5 minutes on. Not sure if it matters but the HVAC guy told me to use rubber gloves when handling the igniter, I’m assuming oil in our skin ? Same same for the BBQ
I had the same problem. Turned out to be the wall switch which would get get hot and loose the connection. Replacing the wall switch solved the problem.
Once you turn the switch and your fireplace is on, how long does it stay on for? I have an identical setup but mine goes off after about 10 - 15 mins, then I have to wait about 5 mins before I can turn it on again, I'm thinking that's not normal.
These things can be tempermental! Once you turn it on it should stay on until you turn it off. You may need to get a multimeter and start testing/replacing the thermocouple/thermopile and/or switch
Great video!!! Worked perfectly
Excellent!!!
And I also love the video thanks
Hey thanks so much for this, totally worked Mike. Instead of sandpaper I used a dremal with mini wire brush. Thanks!!!!
We had 3 fireplaces that were not working. Called a repair man and he indicated all three needed new fireplace burnpans at $2,500 each. After researching the issue, pilot light would stay on but fireplace would not light, online I ran across your video. Cleaned the the thermocouple and thermopile as shown in your video and all 3 fireplaces are working perfectly. As I am recently widowed, your video was a blessing to me. Thank you sooooo very much!!! May you be blessed for your willingness to share your knowledge.
Some people complaining about the name of the parts. I don't care what they call it as long as you helped me fix my fireplace is all that matters. You are helping us DIYers a ton. Thank you thank you thank you😊😊😊😊😊😊
Thank you-glad it helped you!
The reason that you ‘hold the pilot in’ is not so much because ‘it takes a while for the gas to flow;’- although it’s true that a long-unused fireplace might take some time before gas in the line arrives. But having users hold that for a long time before sparking the piezo lighter, could result in gas build-up that would be disconcerting if not alarming once someone commences sparking the lighter. (best practice is to be activating the piezo lighter button in a continuous sequence anytime the pilot’s gas control knob is pressed in. The main reason you need to hold the knob in, for some 10 to 30 seconds AFTER a pilot flame appears, is to allow the sensing thermocouple to build up enough heat to signal that a flame is indeed present, and that it is safe to allow gas flow to the pilot orifice, even after user releases the knob. If you release the knob too quickly and the pilot goes out, it is because the thermocouple did not sense enough heat to open the circuit that allows pilot gas to flow automatically. It’s job is to assure that there is never free-flowing gas to the pilot without the security of a pilot FLAME being present at the same time. This prevents gas build-up in the firebox. The Thermopile behaves similarly, ‘refusing’ to answer the call for burner gas (not pilot gas) to flow to the log set area, unless a flame is present. When a thermopile is oxidized as seen in this video, its sensing property becomes faulty and so it defaults to refusing to light.
Thanks for a deeper explanation of why this problem happens. I'm loving this vid!
eileenbrodie7686 I'm a plumbing & gas engineer in U.K.....You gave an excellent, accurate explanation, well done!👏👏👏👍👍✌
You are truly generous in putting these three videos on how to fix problems in natural gas fireplace. In many areas you even do not find people to fix such things and if you do find someone, the charges are extremely high for even simple problems like cleaning the pilot assembly. I had an issue on a Lennox (ModelP MPD40RNE) on the pilot and a local person I called to fix it. He cleaned it and it worked for a while; but occasionally the flame would go out. Then he suggested I buy a replacement pilot assembly (Part# H7268) and he will replace. I did not buy it right away, but cleaned it a few times and it worked. I have managed it for the last three years. It is one of those units where the outlet sits directly on the outside wall. I learned from that person on how to clean the glass also and did a recent clean wipe of the glass. Now I am finding issues with it again. Can you please help? Here are the details:
1. It has a wall switch
2. Below the fireplace, there is an on-off red switch. I did not pay much attention to it earlier, but today while cleaning, I turned it on and it created little flame. I assume it is something to help in ignition/
3. I do have a knob that says low and high for gas flow I assume
4. When I try to put the wall switch on with the bottom pilot switch off, it created sparks and the pilot came lit, but then the fireplace did not ignite. I tried the same thing again by turning the wall switch on, then turned the red ignition switch below and the flame came out fully, but then it died. I have done a cleaning of the pilot assembly with very fine sand paper as you describe.
I am confused about the issue. I shot a few short videos and if you wish, I can send those to you (not sure how to do that here). Any help will be appreciated.
Ray
Hi Ray, its really hard to troubleshoot without being there, but if you turn the wall switch off, turn the glow knob to high and turn the red switch on does the pilot light? Will the switch then turn the burner on?
My gas fireplace wasn't staying lit, then wasn't lighting at all. Found your video before calling my local fireplace service repair store. Cleaning the thermopile and thermocouple with 220 grit sand paper did the trick and I'm sure saved me hundreds of dollars. Thank you for a very thorough and detailed video. Much appreciated.
Welcome!
Thank you so much. thanks to your video, our fireplace is working again and keeping our room toasty warm.!!!!
Sweet! Way to go Lisa!
Thank you!!! Fixed mine with a scotch brite pad, green one , and worked like a charm! Was about to just buy a new one , but ya changed my mind!
Sweet!
Thank you soooo much! I just fixed my fireplace! No husband or service man required 😀👍
Way to go!!! Glad to help you!
Congratulations!
You could probably use a husband
😂 that’s like putting a pizza in the oven for dinner and saying dinner ready, no wife or restaurant required🤦🏾♂️
Had a similar issue. After a few failed trouble shooting attempts I contacted a service rep. The issue turned out to be an occluded pilot light. The jet was fine, however the pilot has a venturi that draws in air. The venturi pulled in a small amount of lint which changed the shape of the flame, not allowing it to heat the thermocouple property. I happen to have a engine carburetor jet cleaning kit which had a good supply of cleaning wires and pipe cleaner type brushes. A quick cleaning with one of the brushes, a vacuum and some more cleaning of the thermopile, thermocouple and burner with a brass brush did the trick. Thanks for the video 👍🏻
Great comment! Here is another video I just published talking about some of the issues you mentioned: th-cam.com/video/CD7yDCt69LE/w-d-xo.html
#1 video on my books -thank you for the CLEAR photography and a well illuminated fireplace component, easy to view -thank you man’
Thanks for making this vid!
You just saved me $300 by not hiring a fireplace company. I cleaned with emery cloth/small wire brush and vaced it all out. Took about an hour.
Thank you!!
Sweet! You're welcome Jeffrey
Thanks for your video, I will try and service mine as I'm having the same problem.
Mike, thank you! My gas fireplace in the primary bedroom hasn't worked for two years. Getting a professional to come to the house has been impossible. Having watched your fireplace videos the problem was easily solved. Works like a charm now. Thank you from a new subscriber.
Awesome David-glad it helped you!
My fireplace is similar to the one and couldn't work on for few months. I just did it what you showed. Wonderful it worked out right now.
Thanks.
You're Welcome!
Fantastic video! This easy and free fix was explained well and now my fireplace is ready for winter. Thanks!
Awesome-glad it helped you!
Thank you! After almost 20 years of having our fireplace, it wouldn't light yesterday. Thanks to you, I had it up and running within a few minutes! 😁⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Way to go Kate!
Thank you so much. I finally fixed it immediately after watching this video. I tried to use wipes and toothbrush to clean and didn't work. Finally I used the fine sand paper. It succeeded! Thank you!!!
You're Welcome!
The video worked perfectly. I was able to clean up the fireplace so that the burner stays on (it hasn't shut off for six hours now). Thank you for putting the video together in such a complete and easy-to-follow manner; it saved me $150 that they wanted for a basic service call! Again, thank you!
Awesome! Glad to help you!
Thanks this helped me out, I've been trying to figure out how to light my fireplace since August.
You're welcome Dominique!
Love it when these DIY make videos and get tons cheers. You don't clean thermopile with sandpaper.
Thank you. I did exactly what you did and saved a visit & $$$. My fireplace is back up and running. Appreciate your video. Thank you
You're welcome Quinton-glad it helped you!
Thanks for the video, very informative ! We have a Monessen fp log.setup. Remote switch nor the fp switch would turn on the burners. Doing as you demonstrated i checked the remote switch and it was good . Then cleaned the thermopile. Relit the fp thermocouple and we have light off ! Thanks again.
Way to go Chuck!
Worked like a charm. I am a widow but I got it cleaned and so far it is working. The pilot light has been going out after about 5 days. Wait and see!! Thank you for the detailed video
Helpful tip! I would highly recommend using a scotch Brite pad to clean thermopiles. Especially for customers who have annual maintenance done on these as recommended by most manufactures. Using sand paper will ruin thermopiled and thermocouples very quickly by shaving the metal off. Great video!
Thank you and I agree with your comment! Sometimes you have to use what you have available!
Great video! It helped me to address my fireplace problem. I appreciate the direct and clear approach.
You're Welcome!
Thanks mines a out side fireplace. but I believe your right, if this thing was cleaned ? I think it just might be My Best Buy for my patio so guess I’ll be pulling it apart 😬😜👍
Just watched this and found out it was my switch. Should have started there first 😊. Thanks for the help!
You're welcome Gary!
Excellent. Sanded the thermocouple and the fireplace lit up like Christmas!
Sweet! Glad it helped!
Thank you! I couldn't rap my head around why it wasn't starting up, but I followed this tutorial, and all was good... 👏🏾
Awesome! Glad it helped you
Thank you so much! With this video I was able to turn on the gas fireplace! It’s currently 3F outside and we really needed the extra warmth!
Wow that's cold!
Thank you. I am going to give it a try and hopefully it will fix my problem.
Welcome!
Thank you from VA! A simple cleaning did the trick. ( and some serious vacuuming under the ceramics)
Awesome Whitney! Stay warm over there!
This was so helpful, thank you! I was able to troubleshoot the issue and get it lit.
Great channel!
Way to go Lizz!
Thanks for the great video. I thought I had to replace the sensor but a little blow from the compressed air did the trick
Sweet! Glad to hear it John!
Thank you for the video! Just used this for a condo I’m cleaning 🎉
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Sanding my thermal pile fixed it! Thanks for posting this video!
Nice! Glad to help you!
Best video to walk through ALL the compenents and possible issues
Thank you Tony! Glad it helped you
Thank you so much Mike !! You just save me bunch of money. My fireplace is as good as new!!!!
Great to hear ukgabe!
Thank you!!!! Worked perfectly for my fire pit table & thankfully didn’t have to sand anything. A leaf blower has been the godsend for blowing the lava rock particles out.
Nice! Glad to help!
Mine has been used all winter.
Now staying lit 5-10 min only.
I’ve cleaned parts using Vac & toothbrush, but not sandpaper/scrubber.
Giving that a try next.
I was not able to get the pilot going until followed these directions. Very helpful video.
That's great! Glad to help you!
Your fireplace looks the same as mine, without the glass doors. Mine is not lighting even with a new switch installed last year so I'll try cleaning everything and see if that works. Thanks for your videos.
You're Welcome!
Cleaning the pilot burner and office is very important for having a sharp,hot pilot flame that allows the thermopile to generate the maximum millivolts needed for operation.A clean pilot also allows smoother ignition of the main burner.Another common problem with these units is the millivolt loss through the wall switch,these switches were made for 120 volts,not millivolts.(Too much resistance through the switch contacts).
Excellent post!
What kind of switch should you change out the 120-volt switch to. That seems to be my problem.
120V switches would need to have lower resistance for higher voltage, otherwise, they'd burn up with rated current running through them.
Awesome video. Same problem. I used steel wool instead of sandpaper. It worked perfectly! Thanks again.
Love to hear it! You're Welcome!
great video help me out to fix my fir place
Thank you so much your video is very handy I did everything you said and now my fireplace works perfectly thanks to you 😄have a merry Christmas and a blessed and happy year .
And keep the good instructions.😊
Thank you Claudia! Merry Christmas to you as well!
I used to turn my pilot light off in the Summer months, but that always meant a greater chance of the fireplace not starting in the Fall. I kept it on all year last year and had no problems when it got cold and I needed it. This year, with the high price of gas, I turned it off. I figured I would turn it on weekly to keep it clean of debris. This plan worked until the other day. The pilot went on no problem, but burner would not light. I had to do a big clean up with compressed air and vacuuming and it finally worked. Do you recommend leaving the pilot on all year to make sure it keeps it clean and free of dust and webs that prevent the burner from igniting? Thanks very much.
Personally, I hate wasting energy and so I turn mine off. I do end up having to fiddle with it when I turn it back on in the winter, but it's only a few minutes. I guess it comes down to personal preference.
@@MikeKlimek Thank you very much for getting back to me. I completely agree with you about saving energy, but I’m just not that skilled in fiddling with it to trust is going to work without having to call a service tech. Can I ask one more question please… Are there benefits to the fireplace, besides it working right away when you need it, to keeping the pilot light on? Thank you so much again
@@tomseaman5543 Not that I can think of. It might keep spiders from getting into the orifice...
I went, I cleaned, I CONQUERED! It worked perfectly! thank you for the video!
LOL You're Welcome!
Thanks for the tips, Mike.
Had to rewatch the video .. had same problem two years ago .. watched your video the first time, and it worked.
Well, it worked again just now ..
One thing I might add: some furnaces (like mine) don't have a spark mechanism, so you have to light the pilot light manually with a match to get things going .. no big deal.
Thanks again ..
You're Welcome!
mine is the same but the pilot light won't stay lit on it's own. cleaned as you showed and left gas knob on for a long time but the moment I release it pilot light goes out.
Same here. What else could be the issue? I just installed a brand new piolet assembly and it still won't stay lit in the on position. Could it be in the gas line?
need to replace thermocouple
Great video sir… I did all of what you mentioned… clean air-clean vacuumed..pilot stay lit but the fireplace burned for about 5 minutes then went off… Time for a new thermocouple?
Are you able to test the thermocouple?
@@MikeKlimek I went back in and removed the rack and fake wood and re-cleaned it and it is working so far. Per Google the lifespan of the thermocouple is approx 10 years and this system is 17 years old… I guess I am on borrowed time 😂. I decided to purchase a new thermocouple/thermophile so that the next time it stop working I replace thermocouple/thermophile/pilot etc. I found/ordered the replacement part using the model number etc on amazon. Thanks for responding to my question. Barrington
@@TheBstegold You're welcome Barrington! Glad you got it figured out
@@MikeKlimek I am following up. The fireplace has been working like magic. I have not used the thermocouple I bought. Thanks again.
@@TheBstegold That's great to hear and you're welcome!
As many others have commented, GREAT video and very helpful!!!! I followed instructions and got some improvement as pilot light stays lit now and actually is much easier to light than it had been before. However, after I move it to on and it finally stays on after doing this I think I'm golden but then a few minutes later I hear kind of a 'click' and then pilot turns off?? Any thoughts on this? You have a video for this issue? lol
I would start by testing. Watch this video: th-cam.com/video/CD7yDCt69LE/w-d-xo.html
Great video tutorial, just what I needed to get our fireplace working properly...
Great to hear!
Thank you so much!! Maintenance was backed up and wouldn’t be out for days to fix ours, so wit your advice we were able to fix it ourselves!
Awesome! Glad to help you!
This video was right, but my fireplace had one extra thing I needed to do and that was to use canned air to blow out the gas jet holes and all the cobwebs around the burner and control switches. After all that, it worked like a charm. Saved me a couple thousand by not needing a whole new set up.
Be careful with that canned air. I used that crap once and didn't wait long enough for the flammable gases it has in it to clear from the fireplace before lighting the pilot and it basically created a fireball that singed all my facial hair. Good thing I don't have much left on top or it could have been an all out disaster.
Great tutorial! Now that it is working (I'm a new homeowner of old gas fireplace) do I have to turn the pilot off after every use or leave the pilot burning during cold weather so all I have to do is use the wall switch each tie I want to have a fire?
That's the beauty of the wall switch-you don't have to shut if down after every fire! Just leave the pilot on and control the fire by the wall switch!
Your video saved me a visit from a service call! Thank you!!!
You're welcome!
Great job explaining how to do it. I have the exact issue and I am going to try out your solution.
Great video! Worked for my fireplace that was turning off by itself
Great-glad it helped you!
❤Thank you! A guy came to my home, and bashed several places with a wrench on my gas stove. And said I needed a new one. From ANC in Endicott NY. 😑😒🙄
Worked just like you did it! Thank You for the tutorial! The local fireplace guy wanted $250 for the service call just to look at it!
Cha-Ching! Glad to help!
Just tried this and it worked! Thank you!!!
You're Welcome-glad it helped you!
This worked for me. Thank you so much. I had the pilot on but the rest of the valves were not coming on. I cleaned them a few times and flipped the switch and they came on. Note when i flipped the switch I had to wait 1-2 minutes, so anyone with this issue give it a few minutes once you flip the switch. It takes time. I realize I was turning the swith off too soon. One thing I dont understand is the design of these fireplaces. It is so much work to pull the bottom, pilot, on, then put the piece back on, then the fake wood pieces, then the on switch. Couldnt we just have one switch?
This helped me out a lot in getting a fireplace lit in our new home that hadn’t been used in 5+ years. Thank you
Excellent!
Hi, thanks for the video, I cleaned these same parts on the furnace and works the same...one question, what if you have to replace the logs??
I would think you would need to contact the manufacturer as the logs are molded specifically for that set.
Thank you. This video just saved me a repair call.
Awesome-You're Welcome!
We cleaned the components as you suggested and then used an air compressor to get the remaining residue out of our fireplace. Worked like a charm and saved us some serious cash too! Thank you so much!
Sweet! Glad it helped you!
Thanks for your video and the follow on one. I cleaned my thermopile and got a reading of 365. It would not light when I crossed the wires at the switch but did light when I used the paper clip on the terminals. However it will not stay lit when I remove the paper clips. Where do I go from here?
The problem will be from the terminals, wires, switch, or a combination of them. Start by cleaning the terminals, may have to replace the wiring and/or switch as well
Great video. You saved me the trouble and money of calling a handyman. Thanks!
Awesome! You're Welcome
Hi Mike, thanks for the video!
Our Hunter Selene 6 stove is not working any longer.
It just didn’t start anymore last week. Then it was cleaned.
The enginieer tried everything and it looks like an air intake issue.
The gas fireplace turns on when the glass is off.
The very left flame is very yellow and big.
But it won’t give a pilot flame when the glass is in place.
The blast flap gasket is fallen in pieces.
Do you have an idea what to do?
Regards,
Julia
It sounds like your pilot is starved for air. Did he vacuum out pilot assembly/tubing etc?
@@MikeKlimek Hi, thanks for the quick reply. He was up at our place again and cleaned one more time. Worked afterwards. So maybe it was something stuck 😊
Great video. Exactly what I was looking for I feel confident and less afraid to fix my gas fireplace. Thank you
Glad it helped you!
Thank you, as your demo at 6:03 was perfect, and exactly what I needed to see. I fixed my FP with your help. Thank you sir.
That's great to hear! Glad to help you!
I've got this same fireplace. Thanks for the visual on how to put back the logs btw.
There's a few places you can break continuity on the fireplace. Instead of testing across the wall switch, I tested from where the wire comes in the fireplace to where it completes the loop. Wall switch was good, the temperature limit switch was good, the thermopile was getting voltage, and the damper switch was reading ~3 ohms. I jiggled the handle and it bounced around. I got it to go down to ~1 ohm and the fireplace came on.
When I moved into the place, the home inspector said 90% of the time they can't get a fireplace to come on, it's something to do with the damper safety switch. I'll have to take the front panel off to see if there's a loose connection, a dirty switch, weak spring, etc... might just need to replace the damper switch. We'll see.
Can you show what the dumper switch looks like and where is exactly located ?
Perfect! Fixed our issue. Wish I had watched this video sooner. Thank you!
Awesome! You're Welcome
I have an older system. My pilot light lights up properly after I press in the gas knob and manually light it. However, once I release the gas knob, the pilot light goes out regardless of how long I hold the gas knob in. Any thoughts?
I would guess either the thermopile or the pilot is poor. What does the flame look like from the pilot? Solid blue or are there yellow/orange tips on the ends?
Thanks for this video! I have never owned a gas appliance before and am "afraid" of gas. I guess mostly because I'm not familiar with it. This video makes it seem so simple. I am a DIYer and was about to call a serviceman to come to the house. Thanks to your video, now I don't have to!
Awesome! Glad to help you Stephen!
I have a fireplace that only has a wall switch but also a control box or brain box
It lights but won’t stay lit. I had a repair person that I was watching but I did not see him use sand paper or attempt to clean the parts like in this video. Did use the reset button and now said I need to replace the Control box or brain for $850. Does this sound right? Left a play of soot in front of my fireplace. Not feeling right about this. What do you suggest?
You might get a 2nd opinion from another vendor
Thank you so much!! Worked prefectly
Awesome Mike glad it helped!
Awesome video now how do I clean my fan on my ultimate illusion log heater do you know anything about how to blow the fan blower out,I did this last year and cleaned all the holes in the burner,looks like I will have to do it again
Vacuum or compressed air?
Thanks for posting this! Definitely saved another service call.
Cha-Ching!
Great video i got mine work too but only manually from the switch in the pilot. But the remote it doesn’t work i changed all the batteries and still not working do you have any recommendations?
I had the similar issue. Had no problems using the fireplace beginning of year until March. Turned everything off til today 10/30. Pilot light struggled to turn on. Only scrub I had was a scrub daddy so cut it in half and used his mouth to clean. The pilot now came on easily, but the fire wouldn't turn on by the switch. Left the switch in the on position and the fire came on after about 15 minutes and now turns on and off fine. Not sure why it had to warm up to work.
You did a great job explaining and demonstrating each step. Thank you!
Perfect!! Sitting in warm comfort now, great video!!
Sweet!!!
I replaced my entire igniter assembly which includes the sparker, pilot and thermopile. Sometimes after the burner lights it runs a minute or so then shuts off. I didnt clean the burner so Im wondering if thats the issue or is my gas valve the issue
I would see what your mv are and hopefully cleaning works. Unfortunately, there aren't a lot of things left to try...
yay! you just saved me a $150 service call 🧡
Little more then that asshole
When I finish my truck, my next project. Thanks!
LOL! Get the truck done first!
Thanks Mike for sharing your knowledge
Glad to help you!
This method also works on your furnace and BBQ.
If your your furnace wouldn’t ignite turn the power off, remove igniter and clean with steel wool or Scotchbrite pad , then reinstall. I’ve made this a yearly thing to spend 5 minutes on. Not sure if it matters but the HVAC guy told me to use rubber gloves when handling the igniter, I’m assuming oil in our skin ?
Same same for the BBQ
I would agree-probably oil on our skin!
Before moving logs take a few photos. Many of these log set ups have only one position they properly sit in.
bro just saved my life i’m at work and got a call to fix a fireplace i had no experience lol
LOL awesome!
excellent video, right on the spot on how to troubleshoot your gas fireplace
Thank you!
Thank you! didn't know there was an air flow hole. Once I cleaned that out with a condensed air canister all is good. Saved me a bunch!
You’re the best! I love that I didn’t need to call someone!
Glad it helped!
Thanks! What if the logs go up in flames and out randomly? Should I try to clean the thermocouple still
I had the same problem. Turned out to be the wall switch which would get get hot and loose the connection. Replacing the wall switch solved the problem.
very clear and informative. thank yopu
You're Welcome Eddy!
Once you turn the switch and your fireplace is on, how long does it stay on for? I have an identical setup but mine goes off after about 10 - 15 mins, then I have to wait about 5 mins before I can turn it on again, I'm thinking that's not normal.
These things can be tempermental! Once you turn it on it should stay on until you turn it off. You may need to get a multimeter and start testing/replacing the thermocouple/thermopile and/or switch
The video is nice and clear
I loved 😊
Great video but ins question. Do I have the switch in the outside turned on or off while I’m pushing the gas flow button?
Keep the wall switch off. Once the pilot is lit and the gas valve is turned to "on", just press the wall switch when you want the burner to light