Maintenance Guides / Fireplace & Chimney

Test gas fireplace pilot light

Difficulty: easyTime: 10 mins

Why it matters

A failed thermocouple prevents pilot flame from being proven, causing the gas valve to shut off — or worse, allowing unburned gas to escape.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Locate the fireplace control panel and set the dial to 'Pilot' position.

  • 2

    Press and hold the ignition button while observing the pilot burner area.

  • 3

    A steady blue pilot flame should appear within 30 seconds.

  • 4

    Continue holding the button for another 20-30 seconds to warm the thermocouple.

  • 5

    Slowly release the ignition button while watching the pilot flame.

  • 6

    If the pilot flame stays lit after you release the button, the system is working.

  • 7

    If the pilot flame goes out immediately, the thermocouple has failed and needs replacement.