Gas Fireplace Won’t Light? Here’s What’s Going On
When a gas fireplace won’t light, the cause is usually the pilot, the thermocouple, or the igniter — and a few you can safely check yourself before calling for help.
What you can safely check
- Is the gas supply valve fully open?
- Is the pilot lit? Follow the manufacturer’s relight steps
- Are the batteries in the remote or receiver fresh?
- Is the wall switch on?
When to call a professional
If the pilot won’t stay lit, a failing thermocouple or thermopile is the usual culprit. A clicking igniter with no flame points to a dirty or bad igniter. And a worn or stuck gas valve often needs replacing — a licensed-only job.
If your gas fireplace won’t cooperate in Lombard, the Fox brothers service pilots, igniters, and gas valves. See our gas fireplace page.
Quick answers
Why won’t my gas fireplace pilot stay lit?
Usually a failing thermocouple or thermopile, which stops sensing the pilot flame and shuts off the gas.
Can I fix a gas fireplace myself?
You can check the gas valve, pilot, batteries, and switch. Anything involving the gas valve or a gas smell needs a licensed pro.
What if I smell gas?
Leave immediately and call your gas utility from outside. Do not troubleshoot a leak yourself.
Need a hand in Lombard?
Call (630) 451-4179By Jack Fox, CEO & Lead Chimney Expert — Fox Chimney Service, St. Charles, IL · About the author