When your gas fireplace won't light, it can be frustrating – especially during Minnesota's cold winter months. Before calling for professional service, you might be able to get your fireplace running again by simply relighting the pilot light. As Minnesota's premier fireplace service and repair specialists, at Glowing Hearth we want to help you understand this basic maintenance task that could save you time and get your fireplace working immediately.

What Is a Standing Pilot System?

A standing pilot gas fireplace has a small flame that burns continuously to ignite the main burner when you turn on your fireplace. This system is common in older gas fireplaces and can be identified by two key components:

1. Control knob with three positions: Off, Pilot, and On
2. Push-button igniter that creates a spark

If your fireplace has these features, you likely have a standing pilot system that you can relight yourself.

Safety First: Important Precautions

Before attempting to relight your pilot light, ensure you've waited at least 5 minutes since the last attempt. This allows any accumulated gas to dissipate safely. If you smell gas at any point during this process, stop immediately and contact our professional service team.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Relighting Your Pilot

Step 1: Access Your Fireplace Components

First, you'll need to access the control components underneath your fireplace. On most units, this means removing the decorative front panel. This panel typically lifts out or has clips that allow for easy removal.

Step 2: Remove the Glass Assembly

This is crucial for safety reasons. The fixed glass assembly must be completely removed before attempting to light the pilot. This prevents any potential gas buildup and ensures proper ventilation during the lighting process.

Step 3: Test Your Igniter

Before proceeding, press the push-button igniter several times to ensure it's producing a visible spark. You should see a small blue spark each time you press it. If there's no spark, the igniter may need replacement – contact our service team for assistance.

Step 4: Light the Pilot

Now for the main event:

1. Locate the control knob and observe the hash mark indicator
2. Press the knob in and rotate it from "Off" to "Pilot"
3. While holding the knob down, press the igniter button several times
4. Continue holding the knob down for about 30 seconds after the pilot lights
5. Slowly release the knob – the pilot should remain lit

If the pilot doesn't light on the first attempt, wait 5 minutes before trying again. This waiting period is essential for safety.

Step 5: Turn to "On" Position

Once your pilot is successfully lit and stable:

1. Press the knob in again and rotate it to the "On" position
2. Verify the hash mark aligns with "On"

Step 6: Reassemble Everything

Before using your fireplace:

1. Replace the glass assembly completely
2. Reinstall the decorative front panel
3. Test your fireplace using your remote control or wall switch

When to Call the Professionals

While relighting a pilot light is often straightforward, some situations require professional attention:

• Pilot won't stay lit after multiple attempts
• No spark from the igniter button
• Strong gas odor at any point
• Pilot lights but main burner won't ignite
• Yellow or orange pilot flame instead of blue

At Glowing Hearth & Home, we service all brands of gas fireplaces – even ones we didn't install. Our factory-trained technicians can diagnose and repair issues that go beyond simple pilot lighting problems.

Why Choose Professional Fireplace Service?

Regular maintenance keeps your fireplace operating safely and efficiently. Our comprehensive fireplace service includes:

• Pilot assembly inspection and cleaning
• Flame sensor testing and adjustment
• Glass cleaning and maintenance
• Remote control programming
• Safety system verification
• Media refreshing (logs, glass, or stones)

We recommend professional service every other year for most gas fireplaces to ensure optimal performance and safety.

The Glowing Hearth Advantage

Unlike many competitors who only service units they've installed, we work on all fireplace brands. Our technicians stock common parts and can often complete repairs on the first visit. Plus, with our typical 2-week service window (compared to competitors' 8-week waits), you won't be left without heat during Minnesota's coldest months.

Need Help? We're Here for You

If these steps don't solve your pilot light problem, or if you're uncomfortable performing any of these procedures, contact Glowing Hearth & Home today. Our experienced service team can diagnose the issue and get your fireplace working safely and efficiently.

Remember: when it comes to gas appliances, it's always better to be safe than sorry. If you have any doubts about the process or encounter any problems, our professional technicians are just a phone call away.

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