Fireplace Pilot Light Blows Out

Fireplace Pilot Light Blows Out: Causes and Solutions

A fireplace pilot light is a small, continuous flame that ignites the main burner when you turn on the gas. If your fireplace pilot light keeps blowing out, it can be a frustrating problem that prevents you from enjoying your fireplace. There are a few common causes of a pilot light blowing out, and once you identify the cause, you can usually fix it yourself.

Causes of a Blown-Out Pilot Light

Drafts:
Drafts from open doors, windows, or vents can blow out the pilot light.
Debris:
Dust, dirt, or cobwebs can accumulate around the pilot light and cause it to blow out.
Malfunctioning thermocouple:
The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may be shutting off the gas prematurely, causing the pilot light to blow out.
Clogged gas line:
If the gas line to the pilot light is clogged, it can prevent the pilot light from getting enough gas to stay lit.
Faulty igniter:
The igniter is the device that lights the pilot light. If the igniter is faulty, it may not be able to light the pilot light, or it may cause the pilot light to blow out after it is lit.

Solutions for a Blown-Out Pilot Light

Once you have identified the cause of the blown-out pilot light, you can take steps to fix it:

Eliminate drafts:
Close any open doors, windows, or vents that may be causing drafts.
Clean the pilot light assembly:
Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any dust, dirt, or cobwebs from around the pilot light.
Check the thermocouple:
If you suspect the thermocouple is faulty, you can test it with a multimeter. If the thermocouple is not working properly, it will need to be replaced.
Clear the gas line:
If you think the gas line to the pilot light is clogged, you can try to clear it by blowing compressed air through the line. If this does not work, you may need to call a plumber to clear the line.
Replace the igniter:
If you have determined that the igniter is faulty, you will need to replace it. This is a relatively simple repair that you can usually do yourself.

Preventing a Blown-Out Pilot Light

Once you have fixed the cause of the blown-out pilot light, there are a few things you can do to help prevent it from happening again:

Keep the fireplace clean:
Regularly clean the fireplace and the pilot light assembly to remove any dust, dirt, or cobwebs.
Avoid using fans or air conditioners:
When the fireplace is on, avoid using fans or air conditioners that can create drafts.
Have the fireplace inspected annually:
A qualified technician can inspect the fireplace and the pilot light assembly to ensure that they are working properly and to identify any potential problems.

By following these tips, you can help keep your fireplace pilot light lit and enjoy your fireplace safely and comfortably.