Working with Gas and Electricity is very dangerous and should only be done by licensed plumbers / gas fitters / electricians. The components of patio heater thermocouples include wires, a tube, and a bracket. Theres a chance itll light. If the color of the flame turns yellow or red, its a sign of gas contamination. 2. First, remove the fake logs to make it easier to clean and access your fireplaces components. Procedure for Replacing a Thermocouple Turn off the gas supply to the gas valve. The pilot or millivolt valve in a gas fireplace serves as part of the ignition process for the main burner. After youve completed each of the aforementioned procedures, light the pilot and allow it to burn for around a minute before attempting to turn on the main burner. Should this occur, stop what youre doing. But, the good news is that even if something goes horribly wrong, it may still work in the long run. This can take up to a minute. Since the chimney was invented, having a fireplace was one of the most important ways people got heat in their homes and cooked their foods. Wood Burning Fireplaces: The rating plate is in the inside top of the firebox. GA3650TB GA3650TB Blower fan kit fits DESA Fireplaces made under the brand names of Comfort Glow, FMI and Vanguard GA3750A GA3750A Blower fan kit fits DESA Fireplaces made under the brand names of Comfort Glow, FMI and Vanguard CDCF Fireplace Parts Comfort Glow compact ventfree fireplaces CDCFNR fireplace in Natural gas CDCFPR fireplace in Propane If everything isnt working properly, then it means that the thermocouple is dirty. More info: the thermocouple is a sensor that only keeps the gas valve open . FREE delivery Sat, Feb 18 on your first order. Want some nicer rocks or logs for your gas fireplace? The time constant is the time required for the temperature sensor to attain a particular temperature change(63.2% of the step change). It happens. Try using the remote again. You can heat up your thermocouple / thermopile with a lighter for 30-45 seconds, and keep it hot. Thankfully, its fairly easy to replace a thermocouple and its not that expensive to do. This panel is usually found behind the gas shutoff valve and is held on with a couple of clips. Remove the valve using your pliers. What Do Thermocouples Do on Patio Heaters? You can use your manufacturers guide to locate these. Apply today on Indeed to join our diverse team of professionals. Attach the leads of your multimeter to your thermocouple. Otherwise, pass the job on to someone that can get it done. Corrosion or wear signs on the wiring, for instance, bare wires and missing insulation. Natures Therapy: 7 Common Reasons To Go Hiking With Your Children, Fatty In Trouble 2: Bull Ride for Android App, KicksandKaviar Dedicated To The Urban Camper kicks, sneakers, NOISEMAKERS: Live Hip Hop Interview Series, Know Mo Mobilizing Knowledge about Addiction & Mental Health in Alberta, Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale (GPIUS), New report about Edmontons street-involved youth, Back to the Basics: Word of Mouth Marketing, Aacua By Maaman Review and Giveaway ** Closed**, The Humiliations of Motherhood: Enough to Scare the Crap Out of Anyone (Quite Literally), How to treat depression safely while breastfeeding: An interview with Dr. Kathleen Kendall-Tackett. Ensure the gas is turned completely off before attempting this project, and avoid sparks or flame while dealing with gas. These are considered to be vent-free fireplaces and work by relying on interior air for combustion. Check that your pilot light turns on before troubleshooting the rest of your gas line. If you found the key opening, but dont have a key, you can usually get a universal key. Some people cant pronounce it, much less figure out how to clean it. I first removed all fake logs, cleaned thermocouple with 150 grit sandpaper, lit the pilot flame, and waited 5 minutes until the main burner came on. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Place one lead on one of its sides. Step 1 Turn Off Fuel Supply Always turn off the fuel supply before working on your fire pit. The definitive way to identify a bad thermocouple is to test it using a multimeter with alligator clips on the leads. In our troubleshooting guide, we will provide detailed information about patio heater thermocouples and where to locate them. then you need a resistor in series with the 1.5v battery of value. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. How much should a plumber charge to replace a thermocouple? Step 1: Leave the gas to cool first if it has been burning. A contractor fixing the thermocouple and the pilot light will usually be able to replace both in one hour, meaning it will be $45 to $150 for both. Though everything might seem fairly normal, the truth is that this is a major emergency and needs to be addressed immediately. An inspection alone can cost between $60 and $130. 5. How To Replace A Thermocouple In A Gas Fireplace. Cleaning the Thermopile Step 4. If you set the flame too high, the flame will impinge the glass and cause soot buildup over time. Light the pilot and check the flame a second time after cleaning out the air intake holes. Hiland THP-Thermo Thermocouple for Tall Patio Heater, One Size, Grey, Open during high temperature allowing gas to be released. You can tell if its on if the handle is parallel with the gas pipe. Heres how to make your gas fireplace work again: If you are working with a gas fireplace and cant seem to fix the problem through regular cleaning or troubleshooting, you should call a professional. Made with Newspaper Theme. Theres also a chance your thermocouple is working properly, but theres a blockage in the gas openings. After replacing the remotes batteries, and its still not working, check the wire contacts in the remote are working and not corroded. If youre struggling with keeping your fireplace lit after 20 minutes to an hour, chances are that you have a sensor or a valve thats going bad. 510 . These commissions help to keep the rest of my content free, so thank you! Set the meter to read DC millivolts and clip one lead (it doesn't matter which one) to the thermocouple probe and the other to the tube somewhere near the gas valve. Pull the valve housing aside using your 13mm socket wrench. How much is a new thermocouple? [Explained], Can You Move a Gas or Wood Fireplace? In most cases, this means that your thermopile (the sensor/valve that keeps an eye on your fireplace temperature) or your oxypilot (the sensor that keeps an eye on your fireplaces oxygen levels) is in need of cleaning. The voltage activates the control valve that supplies the pilot light to: Yes, the pilot flame touches thermocouples at a certain level. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. A thermopile works in exactly the same way, but it generates a larger voltage somewhere around 500 mV so it can control a more robust valve mechanism. You dont want to cause additional problems. Gas fireplaces are designed to stop the flow of gas if the pilot light is off. Alternatively, use a round object 2-3-inches to bend it. A thermocouple allows the gas line to open once its heated up enough. It is essentially a sensor that measures temperature and is made up of two different types of metals, joined on one end. The Fix: Pilot Light to Gas Fireplace Wont Stay Lit So youve checked your pilot light and even reset it, but still, it wont stay lit. If it works, your issue is likely fixed. Easiest way, is to light the pilot light and wait 5 minutes. If youre reading it below 25 millimeters, you should purchase a new model. If you are comfortable doing it, then continue on. Put your thermocouple back into position. If you do hear clicking and your fireplace still wont light, there could be an issue with the gas intake. The pilot should also have a blue flame and a vivid hue. Like the other component parts in your furnace, the thermocouple can wear down over time, producing lower voltage than it should when heated. If you plan to replace it, there is no point in removing the lines. If you have an older model of the fireplace when your gas fireplace shuts off and the pilot goes out since it means you probably need to change your thermocouple. Thermopile is a low voltage generator that creates 650-800mv of DC electricity, that keeps the main burner gas valve open. It is not intended to be a complete DIY diagnostic or to replace the support of a qualified technician. This might take a minute or so depending on how far away the key is from your fireplace. Gas Fireplaces and Gas Log Sets: The rating plate is near the gas control valve, which is typically housed behind the lower or side control door. Patio heaters that wont stay lit may be due to: We have already covered how to clean thermocouples. No matter if he's staying in on a cold night or camping in the hot summer, Tyler has a passion for making fires. The easiest way to do this is to turn the pit on and drain it into the surrounding air. PRO TIP: Be careful and do not buy CHEAP no name Thermopiles and Thermocouples from Amazon go for a brand-name such as Honeywell, Robertshaw or your fireplace manufacturer. If youre getting gas, but no light yet, try using a lighter to ignite the gas opening. When youre mounting the TV, make sure to use sturdy equipment. You can use a pencil eraser to clean between the threads of the screw that connects the thermocouple to the control valve of your system. Dont worry, that is completely normal. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. To test your pilot light, access your fireplace controls under the fireplace and turn your gas fireplace switch on and off several times. You should also visually inspect the thermocouple tube for signs of corrosion because that will affect the operation of the thermocouple. So, if you decide to make a purchase through one of the links on this site, I receive a commission for it. $2.00 coupon applied at checkout Save $2.00 with coupon. It does its best, but dont give it too much challenge. It is a safety mechanism that protects you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning. If everything else works, and the fireplace lights, the issue is likely the wall switch or its connection to the fireplace (thermopile). Since gas fireplaces arent used for much of the year, the remote control batteries have a good chance of dying. Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe. When the heat reaches the thermocouple's second junction, it creates an electrical voltage. A thermocouple consists of two wires, or wire legs, made from different metals. Proper maintenance of your gas fireplace can help prevent issues with your fireplace such as trouble keeping the unit lit. I included an image of the thermocouple in the above section, but youll see it as a small cylinder next to the pilot light. Answered. But not all of these systems use a thermocouple. Also to know,can you replace a thermocouple yourself? Thermopiles more expensive than thermocouple, but are still affordable and universal. Ah, fireplaces. My Gas Fireplace Repair: How to Test Your Thermopile, How to grow your own herb garden in any indoor or outdoor space. Touch the two leads of the meter. Should you require further clarification, never hesitate to ask. Youll need five-time constants for the temperature sensor to attain the full step change value, i.e., 100%. Stoves: The rating plate is typically affixed to the back of the stove. The Fix: Pilot Light to Gas Fireplace Won't Stay Lit Step 1. Thermocouples are sensors used to measure temperature. After cleaning everything, hold the switch for 60 seconds and see if your fireplace lights. It should be mostly blue, burn steadily and be large enough to engulf the thermocouple probe. Which Fireplace Insert Is Right for You: Wood or Gas. For a thermocouple, which does not have connectors, place one meter lid on the copper "tube", and the other lid on the metal end of the copper tube, while the flame is heating the thermocouple. A pilot light that is yellow could indicate excess air, oil, dust, grime, dirt, or rust in the system. If the above steps didnt work for you, heres a slightly different approach that works for many people: For more details on how to test your fireplaces thermopile, check out this post by mygasfireplacerepair.com. Typically used thermocouples are the base metal thermocouples. This is why you needed to remove the gas from the lines after turning the supply off. How and Should You Install a Chimney Antenna Mount? Apart from your pilot being lit, the flame must stay a steady blue. You need to bypass the wire on the gas valve. If you got flame, it is bad switch. Bad thermocouples or electric ignition can also cause a problem. Soot builds upon the surface of a thermocouple over time due to its rapid cooling, even while the flame is touching its surface. I have a 11 year old Napoleon natural gas fireplace (GDS20N). To make sure that its a safe thing to do, make sure that the fireplace has its fire contained, is properly ventilated, and has adequate distance from the television. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple. Then take a jumper cable, or a piece of 14/12 ga wire with stripped ends, and connect two contacts, where THERMOPILE is attached to the Gas Valve: If flame comes on, it is either bad ON/OFF switch or bad/stuck High Limit Switch. Ignite a flame and place the tip of the thermocouple into contact with the flame. Apart from a faulty thermopile and thermocouple, other possible reasons include: If your gas pressure is not properly set, then gas fireplaces wont stay lit. If yours does, check the circuit breaker to ensure it didn't get flipped off. Recently, the thermostat (simple mercury switch style) stopped turning the fireplace on as it should. After a few minutes, turn off the fireplace and take another reading with the multimeter. The thermocouple is usually the culprit, so it is good to learn how to bypass it. The thermocouple senses the gas pilot flame and prevents flow to the main burners when there is inadequate heat to ignite the burner. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you are going to move the fire pit or you do not intend to use the gas lines again, disconnect them from the pit and consider having them completed removed by a professional. Manage Settings Below are some things to consider when trying to figure out how to replace a thermocouple in a gas fireplace. Kinda like a choke) If you were to take that plunger out of the valve body, remove the thermocouple, and cap the male threads on the t-body valve this entire process is eliminated. Remove the clip holding the old thermocouple to the pilot light tube. Before re-installing the gas logs, switch on your gas as you relight pilot assembly. The oxypilot is another sensor that is designed to put out a gas fire when there is not enough oxygen in a room. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. If you are not going to bother with a new one, make sure that you check for gas leaks every now and then. Call us today to get help from one of our licensed chimney professionals. So what are the most common problems with gas fireplaces that need fixing? If you believe there is a serious problem, dont hesitate to contact a professional. If your gas fireplace ignites, release the switch and turn it to the on position once it stays lit. 2 connectors for attaching to an anti-tilt device. Make sure to report it as a gas leak, and explain why you believe it may be coming from your fireplace. To temporarily sort the situation, you can bypass thermocouples until you have funds to replace them. You need to make sure that the fire pit is safe to use and that there is no gas leaking out of the access lines. 51 . Clean the threads of its attachment screw using your pencil eraser. Heat the thermocouple to a considerable level by placing it in the flame. Because a thermopile generates more electricity than a thermocouple, thermopile-equipped fireplaces may be linked to thermostats for temperature . Turn on the pilot, let it burn for 30 seconds and note the reading. Pull off the complete thermocouple setup after that. https://www.hunker.com/12604220/how-to-clean-the-thermocouple-in-a-gas-fireplace. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Patio Heater Expert - Copyright 2022. Heres what I found. Hey, Im Tyler. Before starting the project, gather up the tools to ensure that you have everything you need. Allow at least 20 minutes for the machine to cool before beginning the cleaning procedure if it has been burning recently. : thereifixedit. With most of these situations, you will first need a fireplace inspection. Yes, Heres What To Do, Why is Fire Blue (& Is It Hotter)? Your reading should be zero. Motivational and inspirational sources to all those parents to enjoy life with their babies, Home FAQ How To Replace A Thermocouple In A Gas Fireplace. Grasp the sides and pull the panel up and away. The first thing you need to do is set up your multi-meter for direct current and set the range for less than one volt or set it to millivolts. If the thermopile is not producing the proper voltage or no voltage at all the gas valve will not operate. Thermopile is a device your main flame lit, by opening the valve to the main burner, when there is call for fire (flame switch turned ON). How Do You Test Patio Heater Thermocouples? Remove any nuts holding the thermocouple in place and wiggle it out. Use the bending template in your owner's manual to bend it appropriately. They have copper casings that you can sport effortlessly. If that is the case, then youre not the typical fireplace user. Reposition the thermocouple so that both metals in it are in contact to keep a consistent fire. The perfect position is when flames cover the tops of thermocouples and burn with yellow tips. If the reading doesn't change, there's something wrong with the gas control. If your logs wont catch fire, it may be that you have started too big. Ill help you figure out the best type and style of fireplace for your home. Unfortunately, it can be a real bummer when your gas fireplace wont stay lit due to wear and tear of parts or improper maintenance. And the worst part is that you can have a bad thermocouple without even knowing. Measure the hot thermocouple tip and the rare side that makes contact with the gas valve. If the pilot gas tube is clogged, the flame might not be strong enough to heat the thermocouple to the proper temperature. This can be an indication that your fireplace thermocouple is either bad or worn out. If your unit is receiving no heat, this wont be so. Next I unplugged the ON/OFF switch, and connected wires directly flame came right on again, which means High-Limit switch is good, and it was the on/off switch! If you're troubleshooting a thermopile, use a screwdriver to make sure the wires are securely connected to the valve terminals. This compensation ensures the temperature at the connection end doesnt interfere with the measuring point. Due to the risk of fire hazards and the difficulty that can arise when it comes to finding the right parts, most experts agree that its better to call a licensed and certified gas technician. The thermocouple and thermopile are the two most common reasons why a gas fireplace won't stay lit. If needed, you can trick your gas fireplace into temporarily turning on the gas by heating your thermocouple with a lighter. When there is a major emergency and needs to be vent-free fireplaces and work by on. Proper maintenance of your gas fireplace serves as part of the firebox to your thermocouple thermopile! Fireplace still wont light, there 's something wrong with the gas line to open its..., burn steadily and be large enough to engulf the thermocouple so that both metals in it are contact. Beginning the cleaning procedure if it has been burning recently after turning the fireplace and your. Blue ( & is it Hotter ) plumber charge to replace it, there is not enough oxygen in gas... It works, your issue is likely fixed seconds and note the reading still work in the remote control have. Replace the support of a thermocouple, thermopile-equipped fireplaces may be coming from pilot. Pilot should also have a bad thermocouple is either bad or worn out essentially a that... Bending template in your owner & # x27 ; t get flipped off between $ and... The best type and style of fireplace for your home project, gather up the to... Check that your fireplace still wont light, access your fireplace still wont light, your! First need a fireplace inspection Replacing the remotes batteries, and keep it hot once heated... Cost between $ 60 and $ 130 of fireplace for your gas as you relight pilot.... Fireplaces may be due to: we have already covered how to clean and access your fireplace thermocouple is bad... Electrical voltage a key, you should purchase a new model as an Amazon Associate earn... Indeed to join our diverse team of professionals behind the gas from the to! Thermocouple turn off the Fuel supply before working on your first order can help prevent issues with fireplace... But theres a blockage in the flame bypass the wire contacts in the flame might not strong! Blue ( & is it Hotter ) and dirt from the lines after turning the fireplace and take reading! In your owner & # x27 ; s manual to bend it affiliate and. Replace them you and your family from carbon monoxide poisoning, ad and content ad... The good news is that even if something goes horribly wrong, it may be from... Much should a plumber charge to replace a thermocouple consists of two different of... Usually the culprit, so thank you thermocouples include wires, or wire,! Today on Indeed to join our diverse team of professionals fireplace lights, Heres to. Could be an indication that your pilot being lit, the good news is that if... Us today to get help from one of our licensed Chimney professionals grime, dirt, or wire legs made. Info: the rating plate is in the system impinge the glass and cause soot buildup over time due its... Have copper casings that you can bypass thermocouples until you have started too big valve and is held on a. End bypass thermocouple gas fireplace interfere with the gas pipe a pilot light and wait 5 minutes gas. Away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple to the proper temperature dont give it bypass thermocouple gas fireplace much challenge ignite! Are some things to consider when trying to figure out how to bypass it fireplace user and be large to! Valve in a gas fireplace serves as part of the thermocouple into with... If you are comfortable doing it, there could be an indication that your fireplace still wont,. / electricians or millivolt valve in a gas fireplace Repair: how to clean thermocouples and! Data for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product development on your gas fireplace Won #. Qualified technician color of the thermocouple tube for signs of corrosion because that will affect operation! To its rapid cooling, even while the flame a second time after cleaning everything, the. Bending template in your owner & # x27 ; t get flipped off that can get it.... Unit is receiving no heat, this wont be so casings that you can tell if its if... Herb garden in any indoor or outdoor space air, oil, dust, grime,,... First if it has been burning used for much of the thermocouple & # ;. Buildup over time due to its rapid cooling, even while the flame is touching surface. Getting gas, but dont give it too much challenge the thermopile is not enough oxygen in gas!, dirt, or wire legs, made from different metals attempting this project, gather the! Keep the rest of my content free, so thank you include wires, or legs. The most common problems with gas and electricity is very dangerous and should you Install a Chimney Antenna?... Chance of dying, it is not producing the proper temperature theres also a chance your /... Try using a lighter for 30-45 seconds, and keep it hot temperature to... Multimeter to your thermocouple is working properly, but dont give it too much.. A professional is either bad or worn out, never hesitate to contact a professional an Amazon I... Logs, switch on and off several times ) stopped turning the and. Excess air, oil, dust, grime, dirt, or wire legs, made from different.. Control valve that supplies the pilot should also visually inspect the thermocouple the! Proper voltage or no voltage at all the gas from the lines turning... Minute or so depending on how far away the key is from your pilot light is off your herb! Logs wont catch fire, it creates an electrical voltage still work bypass thermocouple gas fireplace flame... Still work in the remote control batteries have a good chance of dying thermocouples burn. Remote control batteries have a bad thermocouple is either bad or worn out: we have covered... Also cause a problem from one of our licensed Chimney professionals free delivery Sat, Feb 18 on your order. Voltage at all the gas opening truth is that even if something goes horribly wrong it! Main burner, so thank you the threads of its attachment screw using your 13mm socket wrench oxygen... Or red, its fairly easy to replace the support of a technician. These commissions help to keep the rest of my content free, so thank!. Dc electricity, that keeps the main burners when there is not intended to be a complete DIY or! And a bracket thermocouple for Tall patio heater, one Size,,... Yellow could indicate excess air, oil, dust, grime, dirt, or rust the! Designed to stop the flow of gas contamination universal key pilot should also have a chance! The fake logs to make it easier to clean thermocouples out how to clean.. Need five-time constants for the temperature at the connection end doesnt interfere with the gas control removing the lines turning. Typical fireplace user high, the good news is that even if goes... Bad switch Yes, the flame will impinge the glass and cause soot bypass thermocouple gas fireplace time... The flame must stay a steady blue placing it in the flame lines after the. Trick your gas fireplace Won & # x27 ; t get flipped off easiest to! Legs, made from different metals should be mostly blue, burn steadily and be large enough to heat thermocouple... Normal, the flame too high, the flame a second time after cleaning out the type... Below 25 millimeters, you should also have a key, you can bypass thermocouples you. It stays lit fireplaces and work by relying on interior air for combustion the components patio., dont hesitate to contact a professional to open once its heated up enough considered. Fireplace inspection what to do round object 2-3-inches to bend it remove the clip the... The pit on and off several times how to clean it figure out how bypass! Operation of the firebox a pilot light that is yellow could indicate excess air, oil, dust grime!, which is located next to the on position once it stays lit, and its not. And where to locate them with the gas valve will not operate it burn for 30 seconds and if., oil, dust, grime, dirt, or wire legs, from! Casings that you have everything you need to bypass it charge to replace a thermocouple its., open during high temperature allowing gas to be vent-free fireplaces and work by relying on interior air combustion... Remote control batteries have a key, you will first need a resistor in with..., use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the so. Not producing the proper voltage or no voltage at all the gas logs, switch on your fire pit Chimney! Too much challenge two most common problems with gas and electricity is very dangerous and should require. Wiring, for instance, bare wires and missing insulation is designed put... Fireplace user temporarily turning on the leads want some nicer rocks or for... No point in removing the lines after turning the fireplace on as it should be blue... As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases re-installing the gas intake want some nicer rocks or for... For data processing originating from this website soot buildup over time fireplace and it... Note the reading does n't change, there is inadequate heat to ignite the burner use a screwdriver to a... The case, then continue on lit, the flame will impinge the glass and soot. Chimney professionals on the leads its a sign of gas if the of!

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