How To Light A Vent Free Pilot

How to Light a Vent Free Pilot Light

Weather you just need a refresher or have never done it before, this guide will walk you through how to light the pilot on your vent free gas fireplace.

*Please note: If you have an IPI or electronic ignition, this tutorial does not apply to your logset. Please refer to the lighting instructions in your user manual.*

Open the Key Valve

These are often located around the fireplace on the wall or floor. Look for a round metal disk with a square hole that may or may not have a gas key in it. Turn the key all the way to the left to open the gas valve and allow gas to flow to your fireplace.

Some valves are located inside the firebox which are no longer considered up to code in Greene county. These are called in-line valves and simply turn to line up with the gas line in order to open and let the gas flow.

Lighting the Pilot

1. Locate the pilot knob on your valve (usually a black knob), it should currently be set to the “Off” position.

   

   

   

   

2. Turn the knob to the “Pilot” position.
3. Push in on the knob to release gas to the pilot.
4. While still holding in on the knob, press in on the piezo ignitor (or sparker).
   1. These are notoriously hard to press and usually make a loud click. Some people prefer to use a long BBQ lighter or fireplace match.
   2. You may also have to press the ignitor multiple times.
   3. It often takes 30 seconds to a minute for the gas to push the air out of your line.
5. Once lit, your pilot should be about 2-3 inches in length and predominantly blue.

   

6. Continue holding in the pilot knob for 20-30 seconds to warm up your thermocouple.
7. Slowly release the pilot knob, watching to make sure the pilot stays lit.
   1. If the flame weakens, press in on the knob again and wait another 20-30 seconds.

Lighting the Burner

1. Now that your pilot is lit, ensure that any remotes or wall switches are set to “Off” before proceeding.
2. Turn the pilot knob to “On”. If you have a manual valve, this will signal your burner to light.
   1. You should feel the knob settle into place.
   2. This notifies the burner that it should be ready for lighting. If this step is missed, your burner will refuse to light.
3. If you have a millivolt valve – use your wall switch or remote to turn your fireplace on.

You’ve Done It!

Enjoy your fireplace for the season and stay toasty.

 

If you’d like a visual walk through, see our lighting tutorial below: