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Fireplaces add a warm, cozy ambiance to your home. The crackling flames are soothing and can serve as a secondary source of heat. They are also aesthetically pleasing and not something you see in every home. There are different types of fireplaces and one of those is a gas fireplace. If you choose this type of fireplace, you need to know how to light the pilot on a gas fireplace. This involves finding the control panel and then following the steps to light the pilot on a gas fireplace.

An electric fireplace has a pilot light to turn it on.

Types of Fireplaces

There are different types of fireplaces to suit various individual needs and aesthetics. These include wood-burning, gas, electric, ethanol, and pellet-burning fireplaces.

Which Type of Fireplace is Best?

The best type of fireplace depends on your personal preferences, the layout of your house, and even where you live. Each one has its pros and cons, so it’s all about finding which suits your lifestyle the most.

How Does a Gas Fireplace Work?

Gas fireplaces utilize either natural gas or propane as a fuel source. They provide convenient warmth at the flip of a switch without the messy ash residue that comes with a wood-burning unit.

How to Prepare to Light a Gas Fireplace?

Before lighting a gas fireplace, ensure that the gas is turned on both at the mains and the control valve. Check for any strong gas smells, as this could indicate a leak. Also, make sure there are no flammable objects within 3 feet of the fireplace as this can be a fire hazard.

Electric fireplace that has a pilot light.

Steps to Light Pilot on Gas Fireplace

Here are the steps to light the pilot on a gas fireplace.

  1. Locate the control panel.
  2. Turn off the fireplace and gas flow
  3. Wait for 10 minutes
  4. Turn the control knob to “Pilot”
  5. Press down on the “Pilot” knob and the ignition button at the same time
  6. Once the pilot light stays lit, slowly release the button
  7. Turn the control knob to “On”

Here is a video that shows how to light the pilot on your gas fireplace. As always with anything, make sure you also follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Other Recommended Maintenance

Now that you know about how to light a pilot light on a gas fireplace, there are a few other areas of recommended maintenance.

One of those is the amount of electricity that is used by a gas fireplace. It will depend on the size of the electric fireplace, but the electric bill only increases by $50-$90 per year

Another is cleaning a gas fireplace. Some people may think this isn’t important since it is electric, but it is important because residue builds up and also you need to be aware of the release of carbon monoxide.

Lastly, while you are taking care of the area around the fireplace, it is important to know how to clean your Dyson vacuum. You will need to remove debris or dirt and clean the filter and brush bar to keep it working efficiently.

When Do I Call a Professional?

If you notice anything unusual like excessive soot, strange smells, or if your fireplace isn’t working correctly, it’s best to call in a professional. Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your fireplace running safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

Fireplaces make a beautiful addition to any home, adding warmth and elegance. Understanding how to operate them properly ensures they remain a safe and enjoyable feature in your home. Fireplaces can be dangerous if not maintained. It is important to make sure that the fireplace is working correctly and other areas of your home. While taking care of your gas fireplace, reach out to  American Property Inspections for a full home inspection in the Clermont, FL area.

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