We often ask ourselves is my gas log ignitor working when we try to turn on the fireplace logs. There are several critical areas to check if the gas log ignitor is not working correctly.
There are 2 different ways gas ignitors work. The first way is a standing pilot. Gas is constantly burning a tiny flame that on the side of the burner. When you want to turn on the gas logs, this pilot light keeps the thermocouple (safety for the gas valve) energized. If the flame is working, the gas valve will open. The gas will go across the flame and ignite.
The second type of ignitor uses an ignition voltage spark that will light the gas and provide the safety when you call for heating in the logs. This is a more modern way and uses less gas as there is no standing pilot light burning 24/7.
Don't forget the simple cleaning part of gas logs
Another often overlooked issue with gas logs not working is sand, dirt or debris clogging up the orifice or smothering the flame area. We have said this many times, do not burn other materials in the gas log fireplace. They put off ashes and soot that will clog up the small hole for the pilot light.
This is the main reason gas log manufacturers design in oxygen sensors (O2) for the safety side. If the right amount of oxygen is not available for the blue combustion flame, the system will not operate. It might light for a few moments but the safety will trip it off shortly.
If you are not completely comfortable with working on gas lines and ignitors, stop and call a honest reliable chimney services company. They know exactly what to look for and will most likely have the parts in their vehicles. You can be back up to working gas logs within an hour or so.
When the gas fireplace is not working, it is due to several possible conditions. The most obvious is the fuel source. Is the natural gas or propane reaching the gas fireplace?
During the very cold winter periods, it is not uncommon for the natural gas pressure from the utility to drop. Large commercial users of natural gas may not cut back from their usage. This creates a lower overall pressure in the natural gas system. This results in low pressure and the ignitors for gas logs may keep the system off.
Also, if the gas fireplace not working is fed by propane, the tank levels could be low. Check the levels of the tank and if they are less than 10%, call the propane tank supplier immediately. The propane suppliers may be four to seven days backordered on delivery. Do not wait until the tank is completely gone. The supplier of propane may not be able to service your home quickly.
Another common cause of gas fireplaces not working is the ignitor. The ignitor verifies that the gas source is good before the power is applied to start the logs. Over time when a gas fireplace not working call comes in, we fine the corrosion or soot and dirt is preventing the igniter from doing its job.
Another cause of gas fireplace not working calls is the remote control. We have seen several folks with the batteries simply installed backwards. Check out the gas log remote control batteries if someone changed them recently.
Finally, the gas logs need air to work. Make sure no birds or debris have clogged the chimney piping. If you are not comfortable with this task, reach out our ClearChimney service page here.
The real truth behind gas fireplace logs will surprise you. Gone are the days of cheap looking gas log inserts. Vent free is here.
Gas fireplace logs offer the ease of use in turning them on and off with a switch. Also, the better quality gas logs operate with a remote control for setting room temperatures.
Many times, old chimneys and flues become a maintenance headache for burning firewood. A professional chimney company can convert a wood burning fireplace into gas logs.
What is a vent free fireplace?
Simply put, a vent free fireplace is a self contained unit. It contains a metal shell called a firebox. It also has a burner (served by natural gas or propane) and the log set. The real truth behind gas fireplace logs is they do not require venting or a chimney.
We have another post on our site: How to Install Fireplace Inserts. This will help you understand more about conversions from wood to gas.
The installers mount vent free gas log fireplaces a wall. They also install logs in existing chimneys. Don’t forget the outside deck, hot tub area or barbecue pit area.
Is there preparation needed before you convert to a vent free gas log system?
The benefits are numerous for converting an existing wood burning fireplace to gas logs. Here are several benefits you will enjoy:
The top benefit of gas logs is no ash and soot to clean.
Remote control of the space temperature.
On and off times based on temperatures or time.
No chimney or fireplace to maintain.
Efficient burning of the natural gas or propane saves money.
Real fire look every time. No poking or moving logs around.
How about the cost of installing vent free gas logs?
Most vent free gas log installations and conversions are very affordable. As with any purchase, you get what you pay for in looks, convenience and energy use.
Most installations range from $1,800 to around $4,500. Of course, the very high end units and large units can cost over $8,000. Remember, this is a one time cost. Factor in the cost of wood, cleaning, maintenance and safety to see the value of gas logs installed. All prices are going higher now due to the supply and demand of goods. Ask up about used gas log sets or other alternatives to lower the install cost.
What secrets we use to make the gas log conversion look real?
Real fires produce ash and embers that glow as they burn. For instance, the smoldering embers on the bottom of the logs look real. Therefore, we use a man made ember that glows but does not burn up.
Volcanic rock and heat sand add additional “real fire” look to any gas log set. The key is proper placement in the log set.
What to watch out for – too many rocks or ash will clog the orifices. Also, the logs will scorch if done incorrectly.
