The basic steps to light a gas fireplace pilot
To light the pilot on a gas fireplace, locate the control knob (usually on the front or side of the fireplace), turn it to the "Pilot" position, press and hold it down, and use a long lighter or match to ignite the gas coming from the pilot opening. Hold the knob down for 30 to 60 seconds after the flame appears so the thermocouple — a heat-sensing device — can warm up and keep the gas flowing. Once you release the knob, the pilot should stay lit. If it goes out when ready, the thermocouple may need cleaning or replacement.
The exact location of the pilot opening varies by fireplace model. On some units it is a small brass nozzle you can see from the front; on others you may need to look inside the firebox or remove a panel to find it. Check your fireplace manual for the precise location, or look for a small hole or tube near the main burner.
If you cannot find the manual, take a photo of your fireplace model number (usually on a label inside the unit) and search online for the manufacturer's instructions. Many manufacturers post PDFs free on their websites.
Key Takeaways
- Turn the control knob to "Pilot," press it down, and light the pilot opening with a long lighter or match while holding the knob.
- Keep the knob pressed for 30 to 60 seconds after ignition so the thermocouple heats up and maintains the flame.
- If the pilot will not stay lit after you release the knob, the thermocouple is likely dirty or faulty and may need cleaning or replacement.
- The pilot opening location depends on your fireplace model, so check the manual or the manufacturer's website for exact instructions.
Finding the control knob and pilot opening
The control knob is usually a dial or lever mounted on the front face of the fireplace, below the opening, or on the side of the unit. It typically has three positions: "Off," "Pilot," and "On." Some models use a push-button system instead of a dial. If you do not see a knob on the front, check inside the firebox on the left or right side, or look for a panel that slides or unbolts to reveal the controls.
The pilot opening itself is a small hole or nozzle, usually brass-colored, located near the main burner. On some fireplaces it sits at the base of the burner; on others it is mounted to the side. The opening is small — often the size of a pin head — so you may need a flashlight to spot it. If you are unsure, trace the gas line from the control knob; it will lead you to the pilot assembly.
What to do if the pilot will not light
If you hold the knob down, explore a flame to the pilot opening, and nothing ignites, the problem is usually a blocked pilot opening or a gas supply issue. Turn the knob to "Off," wait five minutes, and try again. If it still does not light, the pilot opening may be clogged with dust or debris. Do not attempt to clean it yourself with a needle or wire — you risk damaging the opening or the thermocouple.
If the pilot lights but goes out as soon as you release the knob, the thermocouple is not warming up properly. This is the most common reason a pilot will not stay lit. The thermocouple is a thin metal rod that sits in the pilot flame and generates a small electrical signal that tells the gas valve to stay open. When it gets dirty or fails, the valve closes and the gas stops flowing. Cleaning the thermocouple with a soft cloth or fine steel wool sometimes restores it; if that does not work, it will need to be replaced by a technician.
Safety steps before you begin
Before you attempt to light the pilot, make sure the fireplace has been off for at least five minutes. This allows any residual gas to clear from the unit. If you smell gas inside the fireplace or around the unit, do not light the pilot. Turn the control knob to "Off," open windows to ventilate the room, and contact your gas company or a may have access to technician.
Use a long lighter (at least six inches) or a long match to keep your hand and face away from the pilot opening. Do not use a short match or a regular lighter, as the flame may not reach the opening or you may burn yourself. Wear glasses or eye protection if you have them, in case a spark or small flame jumps toward your face.
When to call a technician
If the pilot lights and stays lit, but the main burner will not ignite when you turn the knob to "On," the problem is likely in the main burner assembly or the gas valve, not the pilot. This requires professional service. Similarly, if the pilot will not stay lit no matter how long you hold the knob, or if you smell gas but cannot find a leak, contact a licensed HVAC or gas fireplace technician.
Do not attempt to repair the thermocouple, gas valve, or burner yourself. These parts are under pressure and require specialized tools and training. A service call typically costs between $100 and $300, depending on your location and the repair needed.
Maintaining the pilot so it stays lit
Once the pilot is lit and stable, keep it that way by checking it monthly. A healthy pilot flame is blue with a small yellow tip and burns steadily without flickering or going out. If the flame becomes yellow, orange, or unstable, the pilot opening or thermocouple may be accumulating dust.
Dust and debris are the main enemies of a reliable pilot. If your fireplace sits in a dusty room or near a heating vent, the pilot opening can clog faster. Vacuuming the area around the fireplace and keeping the room clean helps. If you use the fireplace frequently, inspect the pilot every few months. If you use it rarely, check it before the heating season starts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I hold the knob down after the pilot lights?
Hold it for 30 to 60 seconds. This gives the thermocouple time to heat up and generate the signal that keeps the gas valve open. If you release it too early, the pilot will go out. If you hold it longer, that is fine — it will not hurt anything.
What if I cannot reach the pilot opening with my lighter?
Use a long lighter (six inches or longer) or a long fireplace match. If the opening is deep inside the firebox, you may need to remove a grate or panel to get closer. Check your manual for instructions on removing parts safely.
Is it normal for the pilot to go out sometimes?
Occasional outages due to drafts or wind are normal, but if the pilot goes out regularly, the thermocouple is likely failing. A working thermocouple should keep the pilot lit even in a breezy room. If it goes out more than once a month, have it inspected.
Can I light the pilot if the fireplace is very cold?
Yes. Cold does not prevent ignition, but it may take a few extra seconds for the thermocouple to warm up. Be patient and hold the knob down for the full 60 seconds before releasing it.
What does it mean if the pilot flame is yellow instead of blue?
A yellow or orange flame usually means the pilot opening is clogged with dust or the air intake is blocked. This reduces the oxygen available for combustion. Have the pilot opening cleaned by a technician, or try vacuuming the area around the fireplace to improve airflow.