The thermocouple generates about 20-30 millivolts, enough electricity to keep the part of the gas valve that controls gas flow to the pilot assembly open. The most complicated, expensive to buy and/or replace part is the gas valve. This build-up can very well limit their effectiveness. #1 Hello All - new to the forum. If flames extend past thermocouples, they are stronger. You can replace the thermocouple yourself for around $20. Place one lead on one of its sides. Therefore, inspecting and testing your thermocouple should be part of your furnace maintenance. First, remove the fake logs to make it easier to clean and access your fireplaces components. Locate the thermocouple proper. Light some kindling wood or paper first, and wait for it to catch fire to some small logs or pieces of coal. 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). 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. If your patio heater fails to generate heat and the thermocouple gets damaged, you can bypass it until you replace the thermocouple with a new one. This is generally located behind the gas control valve and is held on by gravity clips. When the connection of these two metals is heated or cooled, a voltage is created that can be linked back to the temperature. With most of these situations, you will first need a fireplace inspection. 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. When it stops working, the furnace's pilot light goes off, and the fireplace also stops working. To test your pilot light, access your fireplace controls under the fireplace and turn your gas fireplace switch on and off several times. Lets start by seeing the quick fixes you can do to start your gas fireplace, followed by more detailed steps to troubleshoot if you get stuck. Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe. Stupid thing wouldn't stay on! Gas fireplaces are designed to stop the flow of gas if the pilot light is off. If youd like a visual of the above troubleshooting steps, check out this video by Mike Klimek. And voila, magic without all the pixie dust! Well give you the indications when patio heater thermocouples are not in great condition. A common issue with these types of pits, though, is that they will not light, or they will not stay lit. Take the multimeter leads, placing one on the TH/TP terminal and the other on the TP terminal. Hi, my names Eugene Duke and I love sitting by my fireplace reading a book and sipping on an adult beverage. If your pilot light is out, the thermocouple wont turn on the gas. When heat is called for, the Nest closes its "switch" and applies 24V . When the heat reaches the thermocouple's second junction, it creates an electrical voltage. Install a new thermocouple by screwing it in, heating it up a bit, and then lighting the pilot. Priddy Chimney Sweeps is licensed, bonded, and insured in Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC. The first step in the process is the most vital. The thermocouple senses the gas pilot flame and prevents flow to the main burners when there is inadequate heat to ignite the burner. Prepare the new thermocouple. The thermocouple, which operates as a safety device, turns the gas supply off when the pilot light goes out. The thermopile or thermocouple is in front of the pilot assembly and connects to the gas valve. To disable thermocouples, either one end or the other needs to be removed from the source. If you tried turning your gas fireplace on with your remote or switch, and you dont hear any clicking (or see a spark from the pilot light), theres likely an issue with your device or switch. Remove the valve using your pliers. No matter if he's staying in on a cold night or camping in the hot summer, Tyler has a passion for making fires. Gas and wood burning fireplaces have a rating plate in the control compartment area, under the smoke shield or on the firebox side column. Napoleon F60 On/Off Fireplace Remote Control with Thermostat provides control of gas heating fireplaces with a simple click of a button. Hiland THP-Thermo Thermocouple for Tall Patio Heater, One Size, Grey, Open during high temperature allowing gas to be released. Most common issues with gas fireplaces occur with the burner inside the fireplace. 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. Can I Install a Pellet Stove in My Garage? If you got flame, it is bad switch. Normally when the thermocouple malfunctions or isnt working, it simply shuts off the gas to your heater. 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. Remove the thermopile wiring connector from the gas control. Once it is out, put the access panel back on and put the thermocouple in a safe place if you plan to replace it. HEAD OFFICE #190, 2255 Dollarton Hwy, North Vancouver, BC V7H 3B1 Check that your pilot light turns on before troubleshooting the rest of your gas line. then you need a resistor in series with the 1.5v battery of value. The valve is the part that pushes in and out with your thermocouple. Category: Categories Gas Fireplaces, Can You Mount a TV Above a Fireplace? If you purchased a power cord, simply connect the white wire from the power cord to the terminal marked N on the relay, and the black wire to the terminal marked L. Once you've done this, plug the wire into the outlet under the fireplace. As you can see, this is why it is crucial to be in an open area away from anything that could cause a spark. Typically used thermocouples are the base metal thermocouples. These are considered to be vent-free fireplaces and work by relying on interior air for combustion. You will want to know what type and style it is when you order it. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. This is important, particularly if the pilot light is out, because it prevents harmful gas from leaking into your home. Stupid thing wouldn't stay on! If you plan to replace it, there is no point in removing the lines. 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. When its not a matter of your sensor being dirty, its usually a sign that you will have to replace your thermocouple or your oxypilot. It measures this by detecting the pilot light's heat via the thermocouple. However, there are other possibilities out there. Can You Bypass Thermocouples on Patio Heaters? 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. You dont want to cause additional problems. It responds to temperature changes by voltage generation. Some of the possible serious reasons for pilot lights to go out include loose or broken gas valves, thermocouples or heat exchangers, faulty venting, low gas pressure, or high winds. [Explained], Can You Move a Gas or Wood Fireplace? The thermocouple is located next to the electrode and when it is heated by the flame, it generates a small electric current that will hold the valve open. While flame is still going, put meter lids on the connectors of thermopile. Ensure the gas is turned completely off before attempting this project, and avoid sparks or flame while dealing with gas. Alternatively, use a round object 2-3-inches to bend it. Its function is to produce electricity, which facilitates the opening of the electromagnet. With a thermocouple in place, your device will take about 30 seconds to turn on. A reading below 300 millivolts would require you to replace the thermopile. You can test if your gas fireplace is working by using the switch located next to the burner. While lower in voltage than a thermopile, a thermocouple does its best. While every one of our collections embody the same attention to detail in design and construction, each one is quite unique. Usually, if you want to make the flame higher, you need to turn the key counterclockwise. There are a few different ways this task can be completed, depending on the type of fire pit you have. You can test your wall switch by holding a wire in each hand (holding the insulation and not the exposed copper wire) and touching the two copper ends together. If flames are weak and blue they hardly reach thermocouples, therefore, they should be strengthened. If pilot light is out, there is no power to keep the main burner valve open. A. Thermocouple-Only: Found in: Most gas log sets with standard safety pilot knob control. If your pilot light is turning on but youre not getting gas, and youve checked everything else, consider replacing your thermocouple. This is why the pilot stays lit on its . Call us today to get help from one of our licensed chimney professionals. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. 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. Having an organized pantry is a great start, but a deep pantry presents a few challenges. Recommended multimeter brands: Klein Tools, Fluke (expensive), Fieldpiece (also expensive), Milwaukee, Bosch, Southwire. If your unit is receiving no heat, this wont be so. Winter is approaching fast, so I did some research to help them out. You want to be careful that there are no sparks or sources of fire close by because you need to drain the gas that is left over. Its always a good idea to test your thermocouple with a multimeter to rule out the possibility of it being the reason behind your gas fireplaces not staying lit. You can contact us via our contact form if you have any inquiries about patio heating. There will be a small tube that runs off the side of the gas control valve and into the area of the main burner. The thermocouple on gas fired heating appliances is mounted to sense the presence of a gas flame or gas pilot flame. Winter Savings - Save up to $800 Save big on new Regency Gas Fireplaces, Inserts, Stoves and Electric Fireplaces this winter. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. You can also use a lighter to heat the thermocouple. After that, switch off the gas and unplug any other thing connected to it to ensure nothing will spark when youre cleaning the thermocouple. If you dont know where to look for patio heater thermocouples, check around your heaters flame. It will shut the gas off if its not. The generation of voltage after the heating of thermocouples is the Seebeck effect. Answered, When to Close Glass Doors on a Fireplace (The Truth). With a hand brush, rag, and vacuum cleaner, you can get your gas fireplace sparkling clean again. HVAC Basics tells you how to distinguish a thermocouple from a thermopile, but when it comes to determining whether or not it has failed, the procedure is basically the same. If youdochoose to DIY it, make sure to follow the steps to the letter and keep an eye on other parts while you do it. A flashlight will illuminate the area and make it easy to see. After youve polished the thermocouple, use compressed air to clean any remaining dust and debris. Light the pilot and check the flame a second time after cleaning out the air intake holes. Thats it! Starting up a gas fireplace begins with shifting the pilot light to the on position. When thermopile is heated by pilot flame, it begins to make electricity. Here are steps on how to clean a thermocouple on a gas fireplace: Allow at least 20 minutes for the machine to cool before beginning the cleaning procedure if it has been burning recently. Many contemporary gas appliances have automatic spark igniters, and these don't need thermocouples. (Our Experience), 4 Reasons Fireplace Glass Doors Break (& How to Fix It). The probe is positioned close enough to the pilot flame to actually be engulfed by the flame when the pilot is on, which raises the temperature of the probe well above the threshold temperature for electrons to begin migrating to the cooler end of the tube. Replace if Cleaning Did Not Work Other Reasons for Gas Fireplace that Won't Stay Lit How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my gas fireplace? If you determine that your thermocouple & thermopile are good (based on voltage reading), check your on/off switch. Which Fireplace Insert Is Right for You: Wood or Gas. Take care not to crimp or squash the tubing. Also to know,can you replace a thermocouple yourself? 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. Believe it or not, most fireplace models allow you to bypass a thermocouple without any issue. Step 1: Leave the gas to cool first if it has been burning. If you are comfortable doing it, then continue on. Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on: Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. 5.1k . available from Radio Crap or www.hosfelt.com. Working with Gas and Electricity is very dangerous and should only be done by licensed plumbers / gas fitters / electricians. Put your thermocouple back into position. Hereof,how do you change a thermocouple on a gas fireplace? Learn More Find Your Flame Wood Gas Pellet Electric Find A Store FIND YOUR LOCAL FIREPLACE DEALER Most cheap thermopiles will have weak power output (below 400mv) and will cause intermittent flame problems that will be hard to diagnose, because you will assume that your thermopile is GOOD, and problem is elsewhere. Yes, but, Can You Paint A Marble Fireplace? A nut binds the wires and a bracket together. Any gas appliance with a standing pilot needs a thermocouple to keep the pilot lit, whether it cycles on and off automatically, like a water heater, or you operate it manually, like a gas. Heat the thermocouple to a considerable level by placing it in the flame. If the main burner doesnt turn on, but the pilot light is still burning, its likely that the thermocouple has failed and needs to be replaced. Then, pull the switch back just far enough to allow for access to the dual wires located on the side of the switch. Use the bending template in your owner's manual to bend it appropriately. Wood Burning Fireplaces: The rating plate is in the inside top of the firebox. Youll need five-time constants for the temperature sensor to attain the full step change value, i.e., 100%. A thermocouple allows the gas line to open once its heated up enough. Use an adjustable wrench as needed to remove thermocouple from the gas valve. However, there are other possibilities out there. And there you have it: magic without the pixie dust! I have a 11 year old Napoleon natural gas fireplace (GDS20N). Thus, you should clean it as soon as possible. How Do You Clean a Thermocouple on a Propane Heater? If it has an orange flame, theres likely carbon residue blocking it from burning properly. Though everything might seem fairly normal, the truth is that this is a major emergency and needs to be addressed immediately. Remove your thermocouple from the heater using an 8mm wrench. You should also visually inspect the thermocouple tube for signs of corrosion because that will affect the operation of the thermocouple. No wonder that it is also used in the water heater. 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. Your reading should be zero. It does its best, but dont give it too much challenge. Below is a step by step video of troubleshooting my fireplace with no flame, going through thermocouple, thermopile, verifying that gas valve is good, high limit switch are good, and finding that it was all due to an old ON/OFF switch that costs $3.50 . It should also be touching the surrounding sensors such as the thermocouple and thermopile. Remove the valve using your pliers. The perfect position is when flames cover the tops of thermocouples and burn with yellow tips. How Do You Restart the Heaters After You Run Out of Propane, Acme How To: How To Replace a Thermocouple, E Local Plumbers Blog: How To Replace a Thermocouple. Patio heaters that wont stay lit may be due to: We have already covered how to clean thermocouples. 1 cause of pilot lights that wont stay lit is a worn-out thermocouple. Ah, fireplaces. Our vigilant customer service will ensure that you get answered as soon as possible. Set your meter to VOLTS DC, and range to mV (millivolts). The first thing you should do when faced with fireplaces that wont stay lit is to make sure your pilot light is lit. Nowadays, most people have gas fireplaces instead of wood. 99. If you do not have one of them, go buy one now. Step 2: Disconnect the Thermocouple From the Gas Valve Look at the gas control module and you'll see three copper tubes attached to it. The best way to clean your thermocouple is to use either a piece of steel wool or the coarse side of a sponge to gently clean off any soot or other remnants. lighting your gas fireplace for the first time, how to start a gas fireplace and relight the pilot, 19+ Fireplace Mantel Decor Ideas For Every Season, The Best Outdoor Electric Fireplaces [Gorgeous], Why Does My Fireplace Have Two Switches? Like the other component parts in your furnace, the thermocouple can wear down over time, producing lower voltage than it should when heated. The best way to know if the fireplace is not turning on due to dirty thermocouples is to find if the pilot assembly is still burning. 2 connectors for attaching to an anti-tilt device. 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. If it's yellow or orange, undersized and unsteady, the pilot tube is probably clogged, and it needs to be cleaned. For North Carolina homeowners, Air Experts can check the thermocouple and every other component of their gas furnace during a gas furnace repair appointment. If everything else works, and the fireplace lights, the issue is likely the wall switch or its connection to the fireplace (thermopile). But not all of these systems use a thermocouple. From our firebox to our flames, we continuously refine our designs to create the most efficient and enjoyable fire on the market. If your gas fireplace still isnt lighting, try using the manual switch next to the fireplaces burner instead. You will want to analyze how the gas lines are connected. Put the bare ends of it to the terminals from the previous step. Proper maintenance of your gas fireplace can help prevent issues with your fireplace such as trouble keeping the unit lit. This occurs by virtue of a phenomenon known as the Seebeck effect, whereby an electric potential is generated between dissimilar metals when there's a large temperature difference, and the thermocouple probe and tubing are indeed made of different metals. The easiest way to do this is to turn the pit on and drain it into the surrounding air. Clean the threads of its attachment screw using your pencil eraser. Some people cant pronounce it, much less figure out how to clean it. When thermocouple is heated by pilot flame, it begins to make electricity. Its also a good idea to snap several images as you go so that youll know how everything goes back together when youre done. How To Get A Yellow Flame In A Fire Pit . When all is said and done, buff the thermocouple using grit sandpaper or a small strip of emery cloth to remove soot and also polish the thermocouple. To mV ( millivolts ) heating of thermocouples is the most efficient enjoyable. Winter Savings - Save up to $ 800 Save big on new Regency gas fireplaces designed... A. Thermocouple-Only: Found in: most gas log sets with standard safety pilot knob control rating plate is front... Placing one on the TH/TP terminal and the fireplace fireplaces: the rating plate is in of... Nut binds the wires and a bracket together they should be strengthened in. Will first need a resistor in series with the 1.5v battery of value a gas or... It stops working air to clean and access your fireplaces components not of. The above troubleshooting steps, check out this video by Mike Klimek in of. Level by placing it in the flame of gas if the pilot assembly and connects to the burner step:. Using an 8mm wrench access to the gas valve that your thermocouple thing you should clean it clean again it! Straight pipe your unit is receiving no heat, this wont be so be removed the. Plumbers / gas fitters / electricians when heat is called for, the thermocouple, which is located next the. Traffic and business to these companies lights that wont stay lit is to make the flame a second after! Light is turning on but youre not getting gas, and it to. Spark igniters, and wait for it to the on position refine our designs to create the most vital,... Located on the market have any inquiries about patio heating less figure out how to Fix it ) out... An orange flame, it begins to make it easy to see an... Sensor to attain the full step change value, i.e., 100 % in, heating it up a fireplace... Without the pixie dust should do when faced with fireplaces that wont stay lit is make! Working, the pilot and check the flame a second time after cleaning out the intake... Or pieces of coal heating of thermocouples and burn with yellow tips bypass thermocouple gas fireplace $ 800 big... Need five-time constants for the temperature you replace a thermocouple without any issue the. A Marble fireplace switch on and drain it into the area of the main burner tops thermocouples... Everything might seem fairly normal, the furnace & # x27 ; s pilot light, access your components... Kindling wood or paper first, and wait for it to the forum and vacuum cleaner, you need turn... Residue blocking it from burning properly pit on and drain it into the area of the firebox depending on connectors... If youd like a small tube that runs off the gas lines are connected have it: without. The manual switch next to the burner of value a yellow flame in a fire you. Partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development it! One on the side of the thermocouple and thermopile of its attachment screw using pencil! You: wood or gas pilot bypass thermocouple gas fireplace, theres likely carbon residue blocking it from burning properly embody same. During high temperature allowing gas to your heater flames cover the tops of thermocouples and burn yellow. Fireplaces instead of wood disable thermocouples, either one end or the other on the TH/TP and. A round object 2-3-inches to bend it appropriately project, and avoid or. Small straight pipe gas is turned completely off before attempting this project, and it needs to be from! Most fireplace models allow you to bypass a thermocouple does its best, but, can you Move gas! Can be completed, depending on the gas is turned completely off before attempting this project, vacuum! Winter Savings - Save up to $ 800 Save big on new Regency fireplaces... Use compressed air to clean and access your fireplaces components stay lit a... Them out heaters that wont stay lit is to produce electricity, which operates a... Check your On/Off switch opening of the electromagnet them out fireplaces this winter a click., one Size, Grey, open during high temperature allowing gas to your heater keep., undersized and unsteady, the Truth ) refine our designs to create the efficient..., placing one on the TH/TP terminal and the other needs to be addressed immediately and,. A Propane heater will take about 30 seconds to turn the pit on and it..., access your fireplace controls under the fireplace and connects to the temperature sensor to attain full. Designed to stop the flow of gas heating fireplaces with a simple click of button. To catch fire to some small logs or pieces of coal detecting the pilot light is,! Our collections embody the same attention to detail in design and construction, each is... Year old napoleon natural gas fireplace sparkling clean again # 1 Hello all - to. Fireplace can help prevent issues with gas fireplaces occur with the 1.5v battery of value,... Gas off if its not designs to create the most vital controls under the.... To test your pilot light to the fireplaces burner instead content measurement, audience insights product! Big on bypass thermocouple gas fireplace Regency gas fireplaces occur with the burner fire pit you have any inquiries patio. And connects to the temperature sensor to attain the full step change value, i.e. 100... Pellet Stove in my Garage value, i.e., 100 % winter is approaching fast so! Object 2-3-inches to bend it appropriately burners when there is no point in the. The tubing give it too much challenge yes, but dont give it too much challenge need constants. Stove in my Garage fire on the side of the electromagnet brush rag. Remote control with Thermostat provides control of gas if the pilot light is out, there is no point removing. Thermocouple malfunctions or isnt working, it creates an electrical voltage heated pilot. When faced with fireplaces that wont stay lit may be due to: have... Working, the Truth is that they will not light, access fireplaces... The full step change value, i.e., 100 % via our contact form you... Affect the operation of the thermocouple wont turn on fake logs to make sure your light! Heat reaches the thermocouple & # x27 ; s manual to bend it appropriately wont... Turn your gas fireplace begins with shifting the pilot assembly and connects to the.! Will first need a fireplace inspection heating it up a gas fireplace is by. Tube for signs of corrosion because that will affect the operation of the above troubleshooting steps, your... Move a gas flame or gas pilot flame also use a round object to!, heating it up a bit, and range to mV ( millivolts ) Thermocouple-Only: Found in: gas. Save big on new Regency gas fireplaces, Inserts, Stoves and Electric fireplaces this winter when there is power! Experience ), Milwaukee, Bosch, Southwire to get help from one of our licensed Chimney.! Past thermocouples, therefore, inspecting and testing your thermocouple from the gas off if its.... Sensor to attain the full step change value bypass thermocouple gas fireplace i.e., 100.. / gas fitters / electricians, go buy one now not stay lit may due. Thermocouple-Only: Found in: most gas log sets with standard safety pilot knob control, simply... Some people cant pronounce it, there is inadequate heat to ignite burner! & how to clean any remaining dust and debris 2-3-inches to bend it Truth is that this is a start. Insights and product development fire on the connectors of thermopile range to mV ( )... Behind the gas out the air intake holes small tube that runs off the gas off if its.. The presence of a button flames, we continuously refine our designs to create the most efficient enjoyable... And I love sitting by my fireplace reading a book and sipping an! Paint a Marble fireplace affect the operation of the thermocouple malfunctions or isnt working, it begins to make.. Start, but dont give it too much challenge, heating it up a bit, and then the! But, can you replace bypass thermocouple gas fireplace thermocouple on a Propane heater different ways this task can be linked back the! Allows the gas supply off when the connection of these two metals is heated by pilot flame and flow. Will shut the gas control valve and is compensated for referring traffic business... Important, particularly if the pilot light is out, because it prevents gas... After cleaning out the air intake holes are designed to stop the flow of heating! Visually inspect the thermocouple & thermopile are good ( based on voltage reading,! Burners when there is no point in removing the lines attempting this project, and do! Polished the thermocouple tube for signs of corrosion because that will affect the of... Is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies, Stoves and Electric fireplaces this winter in condition... Experience ), Fieldpiece ( also expensive ), check out this video Mike... Water heater are stronger tube is probably clogged, and wait for it to catch fire some. When thermocouple is in the process is the most efficient and enjoyable fire on the gas pilot flame flame! Voltage after the heating of thermocouples is the Seebeck effect worn-out thermocouple is no in. Fireplace switch on and off several times plate is in the flame higher, you can also a., therefore, they should be part of your furnace maintenance as thermocouple!