Gas Fireplace Won't Stay Lit? Troubleshoot & Fix Now

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a gas fireplace appliance —until it suddenly won’t stay lit. While this can be frustrating, the cause is often simple to identify.

In this guide, we’ll cover common causes and help to solve the problem.

Why Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit?

A gas fireplace that won’t stay lit is often caused by a faulty thermocouple, an insufficient gas supply, or a blocked pilot light. Regular cleaning and inspections can often help.

Key Takeaways:

• When your gas fireplace won’t stay lit, it’s often due to pilot light, thermocouple, or gas supply issues. 
• Regular maintenance, cleaning debris, and inspecting components can resolve most problems. 
• However, safety concerns and complex repairs should be handled by a professional.

Pilot Light Problems

A common reason why gas fireplaces won’t stay lit is pilot light issues. This small, steady flame ignites the main burner when the fireplace is turned on.

If this flame goes out, the fireplace won’t function. A few issues could cause the pilot light to go out repeatedly:

• Drafts: A drafty room or airflow near the fireplace can blow out the pilot light. Check for open windows or air vents near the fireplace that might need to be closed or redirected.
• Dirty Pilot Light: Dirt and debris can clog the pilot light, preventing it from staying lit. You can clean the pilot light by turning off the gas, allowing the pilot to cool, and then using a brush or compressed air to remove any buildup.
• Gas Supply Issues: Sometimes, the problem lies with the gas supply itself. 

If the gas pressure is too low or the gas line is blocked, the pilot light won’t get enough fuel to stay lit. Ensure the gas valve is fully open and there are no obstructions in the gas line.

You need to call the professionals If you aren't comfortable in this DIY step.

If your pilot light continues to go out after checking for these issues, you may need to replace the pilot light assembly. 

Thermocouple or Thermopile Failure

The thermocouple is a small metal rod that sits near the pilot light and serves as a safety feature. 

It senses when the pilot light is on and allows the gas valve to remain open. If the thermocouple isn’t working correctly, it won’t detect the flame, and the gas valve will close, shutting off the fireplace.

A thermopile works similarly, converting heat from the pilot light into electrical energy that helps keep the gas valve open.

Signs of a Faulty Thermocouple/ Thermopile:

• The pilot light stays on, but the fireplace still won’t light.

• The pilot light goes out after releasing the control knob.

In many cases, the thermocouple may simply be dirty or misaligned. Gently clean it with a brush and ensure it’s properly positioned next to the pilot flame.

Clogged or Dirty Burners

Dirty burners can be another reason why your gas fireplace won’t stay lit. Over time, soot, dust, and debris can clog the burners, preventing the gas from flowing properly.

When the burner isn’t getting enough gas, it can cause the flame to flicker out or fail to ignite altogether.

To clean the burners, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the gas supply to the fireplace and let it cool down completely.

2. Use a brush or vacuum to remove dirt and debris from the burner area. Pay special attention to the ports where the gas is released.

3. If there’s any stubborn buildup, a small wire brush or compressed air can help remove it.

After cleaning, turn the gas back on and test the fireplace. 

Regular cleaning can prevent future issues, so it’s a good idea to make this part of your annual service and maintenance.

Gas Supply Problems

The problem may also stem from the gas supply itself. Insufficient gas pressure or a blockage in the gas line can prevent the fireplace from staying lit.

Make sure the gas valve is fully open to allow sufficient fuel flow.

To troubleshoot this, you’ll want to:

• Check the Gas Valve: Ensure the gas valve leading to your fireplace is fully open. Sometimes, the valve can be partially closed, restricting the flow of gas.

• Inspect the Gas Line for Leaks: If you smell gas or notice a hissing sound near your fireplace, you could have a leak in the gas line. In this case, it’s essential to turn off the gas supply and call a professional immediately.

Ventilation and Airflow Issues

Proper airflow is essential for your gas fireplace to stay lit, as combustion relies on a steady oxygen supply. 

Many fireplaces will automatically shut off if airflow is restricted, so be sure the room is adequately ventilated.

Additionally, a blocked flue or vent can cause safety issues by trapping harmful gases inside your home.

• Blocked Vent or Chimney: If your fireplace uses a vent or chimney, make sure it’s not blocked by debris such as leaves, bird nests, or soot. Regular cleaning of the vent or chimney is necessary to maintain airflow.

• Airflow in the Room: For ventless gas fireplaces, it’s important to ensure that the room has enough ventilation. 

Since ventless systems rely on the room’s air supply for combustion, poor airflow can cause the fireplace to shut off. Open a window or door to improve airflow when using a ventless fireplace.

Electronic Ignition System Issues

Modern gas fireplaces often use an electronic ignition system instead of a standing pilot light.

When this system isn’t working correctly, the fireplace may not stay lit. If the issue persists, consider contacting a professional for inspection.

Common issues with electronic ignition systems include:

• Faulty Wiring: Loose or damaged wires can prevent the ignition system from functioning. Check the wiring connections to ensure they’re secure and free of corrosion.

• Dead Batteries: If your fireplace is controlled by a remote, the batteries may need to be replaced. Ensure the batteries are fresh and properly installed.

If you’re experiencing ongoing problems with your electronic ignition system, it’s best to call a technician to inspect the fireplace. 

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve gone through the troubleshooting steps and your fireplace still won’t stay lit, it may be time to call a professional.

Some issues, such as gas leaks or complex repairs to the thermocouple or ignition system, should always be handled by a certified technician to ensure safety.

Here are a few situations where you should call for professional help:

• You smell gas: If you notice a strong odor of gas, turn off the supply immediately and call a technician. Gas leaks can be dangerous and require professional attention.

• The pilot light or burner won’t stay on despite cleaning: If you’ve cleaned the pilot light and burner but still can’t get the fireplace to stay lit, a technician can help diagnose the issue.

• You suspect a problem with the gas line: Gas line issues should always be handled by a professional to avoid the risk of fire or explosion.

 Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Why does my gas fireplace keep going out?

This could be due to a faulty thermocouple, blocked pilot light, or gas supply issues. Cleaning and inspecting these components can often resolve the issue.

2. How do I fix a gas fireplace that won’t stay lit?

Start by checking the pilot light, cleaning the burners, and inspecting the thermocouple. If the problem persists, it may be time to call a technician.

3. How often should I clean my gas fireplace?

For best performance, clean your gas fireplace at least once a year. Regular maintenance helps prevent ignition issues and prolongs the lifespan of your fireplace.

Conclusion

A gas fireplace that won’t stay lit can be frustrating, but most issues are solvable with basic troubleshooting and regular maintenance.

Whether it’s cleaning the pilot light, replacing the thermocouple, or checking the gas supply, these steps should help keep your fireplace functioning properly. 

And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a professional to ensure your home stays safe and warm.