Start it up and check that the ignitor and burner are working properly. A great addition to any home is a gas fireplace! If the fireplace has been used recently, be sure that all components are completely cool before cleaning. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe. Reassemble your fireplace in the reverse order you disassembled it. Understanding Fireplace Thermocouples. Why Gas Fireplace Cleaning Matters. The thermopile and thermocouple should be cleaned regularly and so should the ceramic logs that come with the fireplace. This will allow all of the gas to leave the piping safely. Vacuum the logs or blow them clean with compressed air. Inspect the chimney and exhaust vent for loose bricks or blockages within the vent. Use a piece of steel wool or the abrasive side of a sponge to gently remove the soot without damaging thermocouple. Step 1, Turn off the pilot light. Check that the glass is not cracked or loose. Whether you have lava rocks or glass stones, they will have plenty of dust. Proper maintenance of your gas fireplace can help prevent issues with your fireplace such as trouble keeping the unit lit. Remove the front screen or open the bottom grate of the fireplace. Inspect the condition of the perimeter gasket. For both glass and metal enclosures, wipe the edges with a damp cloth to remove any dust. There are so many style options with natural gas from sleek, modern minimalist to realistic, rustic logs. Since there are no real logs and ashes to deal with, you may forget that even gas fireplaces need to be cleaned regularly. Introducing "One Thing": A New Video Series. Gas fireplace specialists, such as Highpoint Gas Service in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, recommend an annual fall maintenance visit, which will make sure the gas fireplace functions safely throughout the winter season. The burner valve in the system will close, restricting gas flow and shutting off the flames. This signals the valve to stay open. The thermocouple on a gas fireplace may eventually become clogged with dirt and soot, which can reduce the effectiveness of the thermocouple and may eventually prevent the fireplace from lighting as expected. Place the ember fiber just behind (not on) the flame ports (if applicable). Remove ember fiber and place it in a separate container. Spread the rocks on an old towel and let them dry. Avoid using cleaning products, especially those containing flammable chemicals. Regularly observe the appearance of the fireplace flame, you should see a yellow/orange flame. Turn off the pilot light (if applicable). The ceramic logs should be checked to ensure they are properly placed and in working condition. Vacuum Away Dust and Cobwebs It should also be placed properly. Remove any shields or cover to access the burner and ignitor, taking note of how it comes apart. Remove the logs one by one and place them on an old towel or piece of cardboard. Take a hex nut driver or screwdriver and loosen the objects holding the two thermocouple wires in place. For relighting, refer to lighting instructions. Gas Fireplace Thermocouple Troubleshooting: ... call us today for fireplace cleaning. A thermocouple is basically a safety device on the heater. The thermocouple generates the electricity to ignite the gas if necessary. Use an old cloth to wipe down the pilot light and gas line components. Gas fireplace cleaning is an essential part of that maintenance, in fact, it is the most common maintenance you need, and if it is something you haven’t thought about yet, here’s why you should. 5.0 out of 5 stars 13. 2. Only use water to wipe down the inside of the gas fireplace. Our professionals have sold, installed and serviced thousands of commercial and residential propane and natural gas fireplaces, gas stoves and gas inserts. Clean both sides of the glass with a glass cleaner and a soft cloth or paper towel. In its probe, the thermocouple contains 2 different metals. With gas and flames involved, Article by Emma Kornegay. Never use a regular window glass cleaner nor a harsh lye-based oven cleaner. Your gas fireplace doesn’t work when you don’t screw it properly. Use a pencil eraser to clean between the threads of the screw that attaches the thermocouple. Well, it sends a tiny electric current to a sensor on the gas valve of the patio heater. Tip the glass out and lay the glass on a clean soft surface. The main burner flames should have strong yellow tips with a base of blue/white. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. When 1 of those 2 metals is heated then the voltage is generated. This includes an extensive check of the heating system as well as a routine cleaning. The logs must only be handled when cool. Brush away debris from the burner unit and inspect each vent hole for any build-up that could clog the flow of gas. Fireplace Glass Cleaning. The gas fireplace has real flames and even more heat, so you have to make sure your gas fireplace runs perfectly so before winter call us. How to Clean your Thermopile and Thermocouple. Vacuum and clean burners. This step will vary depending on the design of your fireplace. An annual inspection to check wiring and gaskets by a professional natural gas technician is highly recommended as well as routine cleaning you can do yourself. Issues with the Thermocouple. Use a hand broom or soft paintbrush to carefully brush away dust and dirt on each log or decorative component. Gas Fireplace Thermocouple. Check that the pilot light is completely out and wait a few minutes before beginning to work. Welcome to CT Gas Fireplace, helping the people of Connecticut get their gas fireplace serviced. Now is a great time to clean any soot or dust from the mantle and hearth. Before you do anything, turn off the gas! In fact, we will make sure your fireplace is safe to use before cold … Check the pilot flame — it should completely engulf the thermocouple. If you have glass doors, a metal screen, or a mesh curtain, remove them for easier cleaning. Proper cleaning and maintenance will ensure that the fireplace burns efficiently and help prevent poisonous carbon monoxide from entering your home. [1] X Research sourceStep 2, Allow the logs to cool. This provides a great source of heat and comfort. Inspect for CO2. Because your thermopile and thermocouple are both designed to be engulfed by your pilot light’s flame at all times, it’s natural that carbon deposits from that burn will build up over time, limiting their effectiveness. After each wipe, be sure to rinse out the cloth in warm water to keep it clean. Flames should not be directly hitting the logs — they should curve around them. $13.49 $ 13. Vacuum the burner, removing any soot or deposits in the burner orifice or on the burner. Brush away debris from the burner unit and inspect each vent hole for any build-up that could clog the flow of gas. Massachusetts Gas Fireplace Repair is a locally owned and operated gas fireplace service and repair and installation company than has been serving New England for over 20 years. It is important to clean a gas fireplace monthly even when it is not being used heavily. 49. Come back in an hour and move your hand over the front of the … Refer to the fireplace owner’s manual and follow the lighting instructions. Our gas fireplace cleaning maintenance team at skylit heating and gas performs regular gas fireplace tune-ups to keep your fireplace heat on same level from first day and increase its efficiency. The installation of a natural gas fireplace delivers almost instant natural warmth and ambiance to a home. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that you have the chimney of your gas fireplace swept annually. Call your gas company or 911. Cleaning your gas fireplace is also a part of maintaining its safety. It is used for ensuring safety of the ignition system and preventing fuel leakage. Spray it on and allow it to work for several minutes before using a soft cloth to remove the debris and film. If we go deeper then we can understand how this electric signaling happens. How Much Does Repairing a Fireplace Cost? Carefully clean each log. Replace embers. Wipe down the inside edges with a damp cloth. Get it as soon as Mon, Jan 4. That's cleaning, inspection, and repairs in a neat and timely manner, no matter the make or model of the gas fireplace. Our gas fireplace cleaning gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a safe and effective unit. Remove any shields or cover to access the burner and ignitor, taking note of how it comes apart. Cleaning the thermocouple is a pretty simple process but should only be done when the fireplace is turned off and is completely cool. Remove the lava rocks and place them in a container to wash. Turn the gas off to your fireplace entirely and make sure to give the thermocouple about half an hour to cool off before trying to handle it. Some models will use hex nuts while others will simply install screws. 4 In fact, when we come to do gas fireplace maintenance at your home, our highly skilled technicians follow a detailed list of 21 inspection and cleaning checkpoints, providing you with the most thorough maintenance in the industry. When the fireplace is clean and undergone proper maintenance, it burns evenly and prevents dirt from destroying its mechanisms. Inspect the rubber gaskets on glass doors for any deterioration or cracking. Sign up for our newsletter! Depending on the type of surfaces, dust with a soft cloth and carefully follow soot removal guidelines. Your propane fireplace is made up of gas and valve connections where dangerous leaks can occur. While you are cleaning, inspect each log or piece for any cracks, holes, or excessive burn marks. Unscrew the thermocouple fitting and remove it from the valve, using a 7/16-inch wrench. Most gas fireplaces have a start-up mode to allow heating of the thermocouple. Thermocouple and thermopile get worn out and will benefit from a good cleaning from time to time. If your gas fireplace is vented to the outside, check the outside vent monthly for blockages from leaves or animal nests. When it is time to reassemble the components of the gas fireplace, they must go back in the exactly same configuration as when you began. Inspect and clean pilot assembly. When it comes to fireplace glass cleaning, things can get a little tricky. Take a picture of the logs so you can remember how they go back together. Clean all the walls of the combustion chamber using a microfiber cloth. A compressed air canister works well for this. For Fireplace Service Maple Ridge and also Fireplace Brands Such as Valor, Myson, Montigo, Napoleon, Heat & Glo, Regency, Selkirk, Heatilator, Archgard, Kingsman and more.. Leave the pilot end of the thermocouple in place. If you're not sure if you'll remember how to do it, snap several pictures with your phone of each step. Oftentimes, this device simply needs to be repositioned or be screwed on more securely. Some gas fired heating equipment relies on an electronic ignition to ignite the flame. Complete DIY projects like a pro! You can find a fireplace glass cleaner at your local hardware store. How does this happen? Breaking that glass can lead to expensive repairs, and in … It’s usually a woven rope. We send our gas technicians to come and service your gas fireplace sales. At our company, we thoroughly inspect and clean your gas fireplace. Never spray cleaners or water onto gas fireplace components. Install the logs one by one, being careful not to chip or break them — they're fragile. This device is a metal rod that comes between the burning pilot flame and gas valve. Replace sand. Check and clean the thermocouple and ignitor for carbon build-up. Our latest shed is also a pavilion—and you can build it, too! Check and clean the thermocouple and ignitor for carbon build-up. We recommend our users to update the browser. Mary has been writing professionally for more than 20 years and is a leading expert on fabric care and housekeeping. The other end of the thermocouple's tubing connects to a port on the gas regulator or gas valve. How to Check a Pilot Light on a Gas Furnace, How to Light the Standing Pilot Light on a Gas Furnace, How to Turn off the Gas to Your Water Heater. The thermocouple on gas fired heating appliances is mounted to sense the presence of a gas flame or gas pilot flame. DIY: Gas Fireplace Won't Light? Lack of Cleaning, Maintenance, and Inspection Its job is to keep the furnace pilot lit. Remove the top grate of the fireplace (if applicable). While you are cleaning, inspect each log or piece for any cracks, holes, or excessive burn marks. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), 9 Ways to Keep Your Dog Active Inside During the Winter, How to Clean Grout in Your Kitchen with a Surprising (and Cheap) Ingredient, Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. Check for gas leaks. It is the dial you use to ignite the fireplace. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any excess soot or dirt that has accumulated over time. With the many styles and types of gas fireplaces and inserts, procedures for removing the glass vary widely. The logs should also be carefully placed … Step 11. If the rocks are small and would be sucked away, attach a piece of cheesecloth or nylon net to the end of the hose nozzle with a rubber band. This … I am (NFI) National Fireplace Institute certified in gas. Many gas fireplaces have glass doors that can become cloudy with particulates from the combustion process. Replenish lava rocks. Disclaimer As with all my DIY posts, anything you decide to do as a result of reading this post, you do so at your own risk. Travis Lopi 93006518 Gas Fireplace Thermocouple. If possible, take the components outside for cleaning to prevent spreading dust and soot in your living area. But not all of these systems use a thermocouple. The gas valve, often located on the wall next to the fireplace, should be turned completely off. This is particularly important if the fireplace is used continuously during chilly months. About CT Gas Fireplace, LLC. FREE Shipping on orders over $25 shipped by Amazon. Release the bottom two spring clips, then release the top two clips of the glass frame. Ventless Gas Fireplaces: What to Know Before You Buy, How to Troubleshoot Electric Ignition Furnace Problems, How to Install a Dryer Vent in a Tight Space, Troubleshooting an Electronic Ignition Furnace That Won't Light. Question: Does a gas fireplace have an automated shut off switch? A fireplace thermocouple is a metal sensor about the size and shape of a sharpened pencil that heats up by direct contact with the pilot light’s flame, telling your gas valve that the pilot light is lit so it’s safe to open the valve to let gas flow. Regular cleaning will help prevent the glass from becoming permanently etched. The thermocouple works as a temperature sensor and expends electricity to ignite the gas. Answer: The thermocouple is the wire that extends from the gas valve of the gas fireplace. Always turn off the gas valve before cleaning. Never spray cleaners or water onto gas fireplace components. Now that everything is clean, reassemble the burner, logs, stones and replace the outer glass or screens. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean every side of each rock. Immediately turn off the gas line if you smell any malodors from the gas and ventilate the room. Our Gas Fireplace Brands for Service and Maintenance. If you have a metal screen or mesh curtain, use the vacuum upholstery brush to clean both sides to remove dust. Gas fireplaces are susceptible to explosions and sudden fires, if there are any leaks or malfunctions. Carefully disassemble the logs and remove the burner unit. It is now safe to turn the gas valve back on. Your Regency gas fireplace, stove or insert runs on the power of the pilot flame, and does not need any electricity (except for the blower). Gas appliances with malfunctions are leaks are at greater risk of sudden fires and even explosions. The dust can get through but the rocks can't. Check that the logs are intact and free of dust and debris. Turn the dial to the "off" setting. Vacuum fireplace cleaning to remove dust build up around the open flame and cobwebs. How to Clean the Thermocouple in a Gas Fireplace Turn off the fireplace gas valve and remove the front panel from the fireplace. A gas fireplace thermocouple is often found among contemporary gas fireplaces. Thermopile and thermocouple could be worn and/or need cleaning. Once the rocks are clean, vacuum all of the corners of the fireplace box to capture dust, cobwebs, and any insects that may be trapped. So, if you locate the gas valve, bingo, you locate the thermocouple. Inspect and clean thermocouple millivolt assembly. Both probes are relatively easy and cheap to replace, but it’s much faster and cheaper to try cleaning them first. A furnace thermocouple is a device on a standing pilot gas furnace that’s responsible for opening and closing the main gas line to your home’s heating system.. A slim, rod-shaped flame sensor sits in the path of your pilot flame where it collects and then transfers heat down via a flexible connector (wire or tube) to signal, through an electrical charge, that the main gas valve should open. Therefore, it is essential to check to make sure you screw the thermocouple properly. Place the rocks in an old strainer and rinse them with cold water. Clean fire-log grate. Locate the control valve on your gas log system. If you see any damage, the gasket should be replaced. Vacuum any dirt, dust, or debris from the firebox floor. With a hand brush, rag, and vacuum cleaner, you can get your gas fireplace sparkling clean again. This will prevent dust and dirt from harming mechanisms and allow you to inspect the system for damage. If it has changed color or a great deal of soot is collecting on the fireplace components, your gas company may need to inspect the gas line. A thermocouple is an electronic safety device. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple. Vacuum the burner, removing any soot or deposits in the burner orifice or on the burner. If the fireplace has not been used for several years, an inspection by a qualified technician should be done before lighting. Can lead to expensive repairs, and in working condition are properly placed and in … thermopile thermocouple... 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