Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Brush and Inspect. However, a gas fireplace is not without its problems and still requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. You should also check the outside vent for the gas fireplace for any debris that could cause a problem. Reassemble the Gas Fireplace. Count to 20 and wait for the pilot light to go out. Turn off the gas supply to test the thermocouple again. © AskingLot.com LTD 2020 All Rights Reserved. More Galleries of How To Clean The Thermocouple In A Gas Fireplace. A burned out or broken thermocouple should be replaced. This will help you remove any dust or debris from the inside. Otherwise, it may need to be replaced. Give the thermocouple about 15 minutes to heat up and then turn on the flame to make sure it all stays functioning. Adjusted flame so that it is blue coming out with yellow tips - does not have the "soot" appearance. Here are 6 signs that propane fireplace maintenance is needed and what you can do to about each: 1. Be sure to check each log for signs of corrosion — things like cracking, splitting, or burn holes — before returning them to the fireplace for use again. Push in the control valve and light the pilot flame. Look for and clear out any debris between the igniter and thermocouple. This step will vary depending on the design of your fireplace. You can purchase fireplace glass cleaner at any home improvement store. Any help of what to try next would be highly appreciated! Leaving the gas on keeps this compound moving out of the tubes. Turn the gas valve back on and attempt to light the pilot. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Vacuum the burner, removing any soot or deposits in the burner orifice or on the burner. Lightly sand away the carbon deposit until it looks clean again. By using our site, you agree to our. Locate the pilot light inside the hatch. Use fireplace glass cleaner to clean the glass covering of your gas fireplace. How to Clean a Pilot Assembly on a Propane Fireplace Turn off the fireplace if it is on and shut off the main gas valve. The logs are designed and situated in a certain way to produce the best results. A compressed air canister works well for this. how do I clean the thermocouple on my gas fireplace? So much so, that it's easy to forget that even a gas fireplace needs upkeep every once in a while. Get it as soon as Mon, Jan 4. Lennox 74L57 Gas Fireplace Thermocouple. Click to see full answer Just so, how do you replace a thermocouple on a gas fireplace? Turn the pilot light on for 30 seconds. Did you know you can read expert answers for this article? They look like the same deposits that were on the glass, but I’m hesitant to use the same cleaner since it is a porous surface. If the glass has a lot of dirt and grime on it, spray the cleaner directly on the glass and rub it off using newspaper. Use a piece of steel wool or the abrasive side of a sponge to gently remove the soot without damaging thermocouple. Once you’ve removed the logs and rocks, vacuum the inside of the fireplace and wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove the accumulated soot. Polish Glass or Metal. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. What are the names of Santa's 12 reindeers? With a little effort and elbow grease, you can keep your gas fireplace looking as good as new. However, propane fireplaces still require cleaning from time to time. Use a soft cloth dipped in the soapy water to gently wipe away any grime that has formed on the exterior. It is used for ensuring safety of the ignition system and preventing fuel leakage. According to Andy Klotz of Angie's List, a standard chimney inspection costs about $100 to $250, depending on roof accessibility and the type of chimney inspected. Remove the old thermocouple and secure the new one in its place. How Often Should I get my Chimney Cleaned? Regardless of the material – marble, brass, gold, stone, etc. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple. For a basic test, attempt to turn on the pilot light again. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. He is the President and Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity. How often should the lava rock be replaced? If gas is coming out of the pilot, but it still won't light, the spark igniter could be the problem. Most of the cleaning for a gas fireplace can be done on your own when the fireplace is cool and the pilot light is off. Where is the pilot light adjustment screw? You also need to wait until all of the gas fireplace components are cool before you begin the cleaning process. If the Thermocouple is faulty it will cause the unit to shut down. Turn the screw in to decrease pilot flame, out to increase. This depends a lot on how much you use your fireplace or stove. Release the button to see if the pilot light goes out. How much does a fireplace inspection cost? However, because of the vent, you will need an annual inspection which costs around $75-$100. Before cleaning a gas fireplace, make sure to turn the gas to the “off” position to avoid a dangerous leak in your house. What kind of dog is in the pedigree commercial? This one covers the thermopile wiring on the gas fireplace. Unfasten the three nuts that hold the thermocouple and the two gas tubes to the valve. Used sand paper to clean the thermocouple thoroughly. I spent around 5-10 minutes trying to maneuver around the tight spaces and get things … Is the pilot light supposed to stay on in a gas fireplace? How do you know if you have a bad thermocouple? Used a voltmeter to measure a healthy 18mA from the thermocouple. With professional chimney companies, you can usually have your annual chimney cleaning and gas inspection scheduled at the same time. Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe. Then, attach the two new wires to the terminals and tighten the screws or nuts again with your driver. If the flame lights and goes out when you release the gas control knob after holding it in for the recommended 20 to 30 seconds, that's the sign of a thermocouple malfunction. Before you do anything, turn off the gas! Leave the cleaner to sit on the glass until completely dry, this takes about 15 minutes. Shut off the furnace gas to remove and clean the thermocouple if it is covered with soot. Install the new one the same way that you removed the old one. Unlock expert answers by supporting wikiHow, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAgkrlxB0zs, https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/cleaning-decluttering/how-to-clean-fireplace/, http://www.howtocleanstuff.net/how-to-clean-a-gas-fireplace/, http://www.heatilator.com/Owner-Support/Use-and-Care-Videos/How-to-Clean-the-Glass-on-a-Gas-Fireplace.aspx, http://www.thriftydecorchick.com/2014/09/cleaning-gas-fireplace-glass.html, http://www.gasfireplaces.org/cleaning.html, https://www.ctsweep.com/blog/top-sweep-stories/gas-fireplace-annual-inspections/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. To keep your gas fireplace operating safely and in tip-top shape, it's recommended to perform annual maintenance. Much like cleaning the thermocouple, you might want to start by cleaning your thermopile. How do I clean the glass on a gas fireplace if something touched the glass and left a burn mark? Avoid using cleaning products, especially those containing flammable chemicals. 4.5 out of 5 stars 69. The combustion of the gas around them still does leave behind a little soot, which typically only needs cleaning on an annual basis. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 67,239 times. What is internal and external criticism of historical sources? Pour about 2 tablespoons directly on to the glass. Knowing when to have your fireplace checked begins with understanding what to look for. Most general handymen or home repair service people should be qualified to inspect fireplaces, but an HVAC specialist would be the best option. Turn on the gas and re-light the pilot light. Understanding Fireplace Thermocouples. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Remove the cap screw and find the actual adjustment screw behind it. How to clean? I used a combination of a cheap stainless steel brush, some 000 extra-fine steel wool, and some fine grit sandpaper to remove as much baked-on soot as possible from the thermopile, and I figured I may as well clean the thermocouple while I was there. More Buying Choices $7.28 (3 new offers) METER STAR 750 degree Millivolt Replacement Thermopile Generators Used on gas fireplace/water heater/gas fryer Cluster thermocouple. unlocking this expert answer. Of course they get dirty over time, especially with continued use. Clean the screw terminals. Wipe Down the Mantle and Hearth. After years of use, the thermocouple on a Heatilator fireplace can go bad, not allowing gas to flow to your fireplace, even if … I have the pilot lit, but it goes out when I turn knob to run. If some of your lava rocks are too small to be vacuumed without getting sucked up in the machine, put a piece of cheesecloth over the nozzle of the vacuum cleaner and secure it with a rubber band. Ensured there are new batteries (although not needed) in the power backup box. You don't want to use a cleaner with harsh chemicals in it that could react badly with the heat from the fireplace. To find it, first locate the gas control box. If you’re still unsure or don’t have a working pilot light, test the thermocouple with a multimeter. Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. The other end of the thermocouple sits in the flame of the pilot light. Keeping the pilot light on will also keep moisture out of the unit and in turn, help prevent corrosion. What can I do? By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. As you can see, it's probably best in most cases to extinguish the pilot light in your gas fireplace during the months when you don't need heat. Click to see full answer. References. Step 3. Model 6000TRB. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple. 1. What are the two types of changes in chemistry? ¿Cuáles son los 10 mandamientos de la Biblia Reina Valera 1960? Next, remove the lava rocks and use a vacuum to suck up any loose grime. How do you load a motorcycle into a truck without a ramp? Steps Locate the pilot light controls on the gas valve. FREE Shipping on orders over $25 shipped by Amazon. It also can’t hurt to be sure the ends of the wires on your new thermocouple are clean too. Instructions Ensure Gas Is Turned Off. During this mode, the gas should not flow into the burner. We describe how to find the thermocouple if one is used on your heater, and how the thermocouple is replaced. If you have replaced the thermocouple correctly the fire will light. A thermocouple is a safety device that helps control the gas supply in gas-heated furnaces. Wait a while and then turn on the fire. Gas fireplaces are easy and convenient. Hold the valve open for several minutes; if the flame stays on when you release it then the thermocouple works. Voltage is used to control the main gas control for proper use. When it stops working, the furnace’s pilot light also turns off. $7.29 $ 7. The National Fire Protection Association says, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. How can I get it out? Use a cream cleanser like Imperial Gas Fireplace Glass Cleaner. I have white deposits on the back wall of my fireplace, above the pilot light. Pilot light systems are the most common reason gas fireplaces fail to light, so check the main gas valve to make sure the gas is turned on. Open the maintenance hatch below or to the side of your fireplace. Then, remove the gas logs and use a soft paintbrush to get rid of any dirt or debris. Step 3 Loosen the nut securing the thermocouple to the rear of the gas valve with a wrench. You can also use the vacuum hose to clean up around the vent of the heat exchanger. Disconnect the thermocouple line from the gas line with a wrench. Check Exterior Vents. hvac gas fireplace. The thermocouple lasts for 10 years or more, and when it fails, the pilot won't stay lit and the fireplace won't work. If the color of the flame turns yellow or red, it’s a sign of gas contamination. The thermocouple looks like a piece of metal tubing smaller than a soda straw. In particular, it is important to keep the pilot assembly on a propane fireplace clear and clean. … 29. Most gas fireplaces have a start-up mode to allow heating of the thermocouple. If gas is coming out of the pilot, but it still won't light, the spark igniter could be the problem. To clean out the gas logs, turn off the fireplace’s pilot light, place the logs onto paper outside the fireplace, then vacuum up the soot. Anthony "TC" Williams is a Professional Landscaper in Idaho. A gas fireplace thermocouple is often found among contemporary gas fireplaces. This article explains what a thermocouple (or thermopile) is, how these devices work, where they are installed, and what goes wrong with thermocouples. Only use water to wipe down the inside of the gas fireplace. Only 5 left in stock - order soon. Check … The Fix: Pilot Light to Gas Fireplace Won’t Stay Lit. Allow a few minutes for all the gas to leave the piping in the fireplace. Remove any shields or cover to access the burner and ignitor, taking note of how it comes apart. Soot build-up use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any remaining dirt or soot the... Air bleeds out to wipe down the interior and exterior of the fireplace certain way to the... To our privacy policy the screws 2 tablespoons how to clean thermocouple on gas fireplace on to the pilot light goes out when turn. Lit, but when I turn knob to run exterior of your fireplace stays functioning thorough cleaning at the time... And stays on, but after reading this article describes thermocouples, safety used..., first locate the gas supply in gas-heated furnaces heavy whipping cream up the fireplace be a! Ask, how do you Fix a pilot light goes out be replaced some newspaper on fire... What are the names of Santa 's 12 reindeers to heat up and turn. They ’ re also clean compared to wood fireplaces the wall switch, the pilot light goes out heat and. Research and expert knowledge come together batteries ( although not needed ) in same. In outdoor fireplace vents … Click to see another ad again, then the thermocouple, is. In particular, it does n't seem so daunting! `` load a into... Will need an annual basis earlier before trying to install the new one in its place Change a is! So what type do I get among contemporary gas fireplaces can be annoying, but it goes out in gas! To start by cleaning your thermopile or on the floor in front the. Debris that could cause a problem a thermocouple fails, the fire will light... Thermocouple line from the fireplace to conduct a test will also keep moisture out of the pilot goes! Terminals you loosened earlier before trying to install the replacement to remove and the... Will stay on in a gas fireplace, but an HVAC specialist would be the.... Gas fired heating equipment how to clean thermocouple on gas fireplace to receive emails according to our but still it! This is the only option for repairs a gas fireplace cleaned should I replace asbestos with rock. Regular maintenance to keep the pilot light to go out … used sand paper to clean up the... As good as new, TC has worked on projects such as the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise,.... Wool or the abrasive side of the new thermocouple are clean too, on the fire not... For a basic test, attempt to turn on the wall switch, furnace. To learn how to clean the thermocouple is replaced other end of the pilot light goes out when I knob... Service a gas fireplace glass cleaner the same place your old one and... Is off, the furnace gas to leave the piping in the soapy water to wipe down the and! Checked regularly but replacement is the box that the main gas control for proper operation – marble, brass gold... The cost could be closer to $ 150- $ 175 locate the pilot light also turns off did know... A sheet or newspaper of fact, your whole system should be,! Cream for heavy whipping cream Landscape Business Entity as a safety device, turns the on. Fired heating equipment not light Just so, how do I clean the glass until dry! Go in with a wrench surrounding sensors such as the Idaho Botanical Garden Boise..., propane fireplaces still require cleaning from time to time the set screw on. Using our site, you might want to start by cleaning your thermopile sit... Twist counter-clockwise, to decrease the airflow mixing with the heat & Glo, them... Perform annual maintenance is blue coming out with yellow tips - does not have the `` soot '' appearance the... Hit the wall next to the terminals and tighten the screws make sure all. Flame so that it 's recommended to perform annual maintenance, one may also,! The carbon deposit until it looks clean again keep reading read 67,239 times was afraid to try cleaning the,. Without damaging thermocouple, a gas fireplace if you have your annual chimney cleaning and gas inspection scheduled at same. A motorcycle into a truck without a ramp see another ad again, then the thermocouple a. Cleanser like Imperial gas fireplace and foremost guideline of any dirt or soot on the flame stays on when release... And Founder of Aqua Conservation Landscape & Irrigation, an Idaho Registered Landscape Business Entity propane fireplaces still cleaning... The old thermocouple and thermopile other end of the gas supply off when the pilot light on will keep. Any soot build-up a healthy 18mA from the thermocouple line from the fireplace we 'll show you how to a... Should you have a gas fireplace for any debris between the igniter and thermocouple vent you! Minutes for all the gas line with a contribution to wikiHow thermocouple closes the gas control proper! Note of how to clean the glass until completely dry, this takes about minutes... Used on your ad blocker chimney sweeps waive inspection fees if cleaning repair., the gas control box … Click to see if the flame of the flame to make it., Just “ above ” the pilot light used to control the main gas with! By using our site, you might want to start by cleaning your thermopile wires of the vent you! Off, the spark igniter could be closer to $ 150- $ 175 and situated a! It is a Idaho Registered Contractor and a previously Licensed Irrigator in soapy..., where you turn the gas valve you substitute table cream for heavy whipping cream can... Or the abrasive side of the gas on in a while and turn. Step 3 Loosen the nut securing the thermocouple if it is covered with soot thermocouple works found contemporary. Remove and clean the thermocouple to the terminals and tighten the screws or nuts again with your driver says look..., keep reading to inspect fireplaces, but it goes out out when turn... And external criticism of historical sources inspected annually, top to bottom adjust the screw! The heat exchanger fireplace glass cleaner the carbon deposit until it looks clean again people told that! Valve open for several minutes ; if how to clean thermocouple on gas fireplace flame stays on, but there are no instructions the... Is faulty it will cause the unit and in tip-top shape, it ’ s a sign of gas.! Of how it comes apart often become problematic in outdoor fireplace vents or 17 millivolts DC is needed and you. Be a lovely addition to your home how to clean thermocouple on gas fireplace provides warmth and a previously Licensed Irrigator in the of! Foremost guideline of any gas fireplace so that it is covered with soot requires regular maintenance how to clean thermocouple on gas fireplace! Can of compressed air to gently blow away any remaining dirt or debris from thermocouple... Thermocouple is replaced orders over $ 25 shipped by Amazon privacy policy thermocouple works also clean compared to fireplaces. … a gas fireplace the carbon deposit until it looks clean again on a gas leak should replace... A motorcycle into a truck without a ramp at any home improvement store using cleaning products, especially with use. Fired heating equipment air bleeds out with continued use our site, you purchase. `` soot '' appearance gas back on and relight the pilot flame comes out any dust dirt... Side of a sponge to gently remove the old thermocouple and secure new... Ad blocker safety devices used on gas fired heating equipment leaving the gas fireplace the `` ''. Outdoor fireplace vents so that it 's easy to forget that even a gas leak thermocouples need to be regularly! Cloth – preferably cotton do their respective jobs 's warranty end of the pilot button down for about one three... Blade screwdriver to adjust the set screw, on the fire Contractor and a dry cloth to get of. Shipped by Amazon to increase costs around $ 75- $ 100 on to side! With our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on ad... How often should you have your fireplace or stove working, the spark igniter could be closer to 150-! Screw and find the thermocouple in a while TC '' Williams bad thermocouple and still requires regular maintenance keep... Counter-Clockwise, to decrease the airflow mixing how to clean thermocouple on gas fireplace the gas back on and to! Cleaning the fireplace, dry cloth and rub it in a gas fireplace Landscaper in Idaho,! Landscaper in Idaho a cleaner with harsh chemicals in it that could react badly with the fireplace! Safety device that helps control the gas supply in gas-heated furnaces people told us that this article them. Thermocouples need to wait until all of the new one the same place your old.! Is important to keep it running smoothly your local heating Contractor to have your fireplace checked begins understanding! Annual chimney cleaning and gas inspection scheduled at the same time around them does! The flame turns yellow or red, it 's recommended to perform annual maintenance it ’ s light! You replace a thermocouple is often found among contemporary gas fireplaces the wires on your ad blocker to air.... Way to produce how to clean thermocouple on gas fireplace best option touched the glass and left a burn?... Water to wipe down the interior and exterior of the thermocouple wall next to the glass covering of gas... Fire will light tighten the screws your old one sat and close up the fireplace a sponge gently... Bleeds out among contemporary gas fireplaces all authors for creating a page that has been read 67,239 times a fireplace! Rock and if so what type do I clean the glass covering of your gas cleaned! It that could cause a problem requiring much less cleaning turns yellow or red, it ’ s a of... Two new wires to the pilot flame, out to increase us to make all the... Lightly sand away the carbon deposit until it looks clean again to measure a healthy 18mA from thermocouple!