A gas log fireplace is a beautiful addition to your home that can heat your living room while you curl up with a book and sip hot cocoa. However, it can be frustrating when you go to light a fire and discover that your fireplace doesn’t ignite. The good news is that a handyman can help you with common fireplace problems and how to fix your gas log fireplace.
If your fireplace isn’t producing a flame, there may be a problem with the pilot light or the burners themselves. A clogged or dirty pilot light or burner orifice (the opening in the tubes supplying the fuel that mixes with air to produce a flame) is one of the most common causes for this issue. A technician can clean or replace the orifice to restore proper flow of gas to your fireplace.
If the pilot light is lit but your gas logs won’t ignite, this could be a sign of a problem with your thermostat or the thermocouple. The thermostat sends a small electrical current into the thermocouple when it detects heat, which then signals the gas valve to stay open. If the thermocouple is defective or has a malfunction, it will cause your gas fireplace to keep turning off and on, which can be very dangerous.
In this case, the fireplace isn’t igniting because there’s not enough oxygen to support combustion. You’ll need to check the vents, flue pipe and chimney for obstructions, which could be blocking the flow of gas and smoke through the system. You can also have a professional determine if the problem is with your burners or thermostat.
A lot of soot on your fireplace or walls isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if there’s an unusual amount, it could indicate a ventilation problem in the chimney that prevents smoke from being properly released outside. Creosote, an unsightly black substance that resembles tar, can develop on the inside of your chimney and restrict airflow, which can lead to backdrafting. This can release toxins into the home and is dangerous.
While some homeowners are able to successfully relight their own pilot lights, it’s generally best to leave it to the professionals. A skilled and experienced Memphis gas log fireplace technician can relight your fireplace quickly and safely, so you can enjoy your warm, crackling fire again. Moreover, a qualified professional will know exactly what needs to be done to prevent future issues with your fireplace. For more details on gas log fireplace repair visit https://www.memphishandymanservices.net/.