Mendota Fireplace Pilot Light Goes Out

Mendota Fireplace Pilot Light Goes Out: Troubleshooting and Solutions

A flickering flame in your Mendota fireplace can provide warmth and ambiance, but when the pilot light goes out, those benefits are lost. A malfunctioning pilot light can be frustrating, but it's often a simple issue that you can resolve yourself. This article will guide you through the common causes of a Mendota fireplace pilot light going out and provide step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot and fix the problem.

1. Check the Gas Supply

The most frequent reason for a pilot light going out is a lack of gas supply. This could be due to a few factors:

Empty Gas Tank: If you have a propane fireplace, ensure the tank is not empty. Check the gauge on the tank to confirm there is sufficient propane. Replace the tank if necessary.
Closed Gas Valve: Make sure the gas valve to your fireplace is turned on. This valve is typically located near the bottom of the fireplace or in the nearby gas line.
Clogged Gas Line: A blocked gas line can prevent gas from reaching the pilot light. This can happen due to debris, rust, or other blockages. You may need to contact a qualified technician to clear the line.

2. Inspect the Pilot Light Assembly

Once you've confirmed the gas supply is working, it's time to examine the pilot light assembly itself.

Low Battery: Some Mendota fireplace models have electronic ignition systems powered by batteries. If the battery is low or dead, it can prevent the pilot light from igniting. Check the battery and replace it if needed.
Dirty or Blocked Pilot Light Orifice: Over time, dust, lint, spider webs, and other debris can accumulate in the pilot light orifice, obstructing the gas flow. Using a small wire or a toothpick, carefully clean the orifice to ensure gas can flow freely. Do not use sharp objects that could damage the orifice.
Bent or Broken Thermocouple: The thermocouple is a safety device that senses the pilot flame and allows gas to flow to the main burner. If the thermocouple is damaged, bent, or covered in debris, it may not be able to send the correct signal, causing the pilot light to go out. You may need to replace the thermocouple if it is damaged.

3. Ignite the Pilot Light

If you've ruled out the above issues, it's time to relight the pilot light. Most Mendota fireplaces have a manual ignition system. Follow these steps:

Locate the Pilot Light Button: This button is usually located near the pilot light assembly. It may be labeled "Pilot" or "Ignition."
Turn the Gas Valve to "Pilot": This setting allows gas to flow only to the pilot light.
Depress and Hold the Pilot Light Button: This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light orifice.
Light the Pilot Light: Using a long-handled lighter or match, ignite the pilot flame. Hold the pilot button down for at least 30 seconds after the flame ignites. This allows the thermocouple to heat up and activate the gas valve to the main burner.
Turn the Gas Valve to "On": Once the pilot light is lit and the thermocouple is activated, turn the gas valve to the "On" position to enable the main burner.

If you have tried these steps and the pilot light still won't ignite, it's best to call a qualified technician to inspect the fireplace. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate solution.