The basic steps to light a gas log pilot
To light the pilot on gas logs, turn the control knob to the "Pilot" position, hold it down, and use a long lighter or match to ignite the small flame at the pilot burner opening. Keep the knob pressed for 30 to 60 seconds after the pilot catches — this allows the thermocouple (a heat-sensing device) to warm up and signal the gas valve to stay open. Once you release the knob and the pilot stays lit, turn the control to "On" to operate the logs normally.
The exact location of the pilot opening depends on your log set design. On most units, it sits near the front or side of the burner box, often marked with a small arrow or label. If you cannot see it clearly, check your manual — manufacturers place pilots in different spots, and some require you to remove a decorative panel first.
If the pilot does not stay lit after you release the knob, the thermocouple may be dirty or failing, or the gas supply may be interrupted. Relight it and hold the knob down for the full 60 seconds. If it still goes out when ready, stop and check the gas supply at the wall valve before trying again.
Key Takeaways
- Turn the control knob to "Pilot," hold it down, and light the pilot opening with a long lighter or match.
- Keep the knob pressed for 30 to 60 seconds so the thermocouple warms up and holds the gas valve open.
- Once the pilot stays lit after you release the knob, turn the control to "On" to use the logs.
- If the pilot will not stay lit, the thermocouple may need cleaning or replacement, or the gas supply may be off.
Locating the pilot opening on your specific unit
Gas log sets vary in design, so the pilot burner is not always in the same place. On traditional fireplace inserts, the pilot opening is usually at the front left or right corner of the burner pan, close to the main logs. On some models, it sits underneath a decorative rock or ceramic piece — you may need to move these aside to reach it.
Check your owner's manual for a diagram showing the exact pilot location. If you no longer have the manual, search the manufacturer's name and model number online — most companies post PDFs on their websites. The manual also tells you whether your unit has a standing pilot (always on) or an intermittent pilot (lights only when you turn on the logs).
If you cannot find the pilot opening after checking the manual, call the manufacturer's customer service line. They can walk you through the location and answer questions about your specific model.
What to use to light the pilot
A long lighter — the kind made for candles or grills — is the safest choice because it keeps your hand away from the burner area. Long lighters are inexpensive and available at most hardware stores and supermarkets. A long wooden match also works, though it burns faster and leaves less margin for error.
Do not use a short lighter or regular match. Your hand will be too close to the pilot opening, and you risk burning yourself if the flame ignites suddenly or if you lose your grip.
Before you light anything, make sure the room is well ventilated. Open a window or door, and if your fireplace has a damper, leave it open. Gas logs produce carbon monoxide, and ventilation prevents buildup.
Why the pilot goes out and how to fix it
The most common reason a pilot will not stay lit is a dirty or failing thermocouple. This small metal rod sits near the pilot flame and generates a tiny electrical signal when heated. That signal tells the gas valve to stay open. If the thermocouple is covered in dust or soot, it cannot heat up properly, and the valve closes as soon as you release the knob.
To clean the thermocouple, turn off the gas at the wall valve and wait five minutes. Locate the thermocouple — it is a thin rod near the pilot opening — and gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth or a pencil eraser. Do not use water or solvents. Turn the gas back on and try lighting the pilot again.
If cleaning does not work, the thermocouple may be worn out and need replacement. This is a job for a technician, especially if you are not comfortable working with gas appliances. A bad thermocouple is a safety issue and should not be ignored.
Another reason the pilot may not light is a closed gas valve. Check the wall valve behind or beside your fireplace — it should be parallel to the gas line (open) rather than perpendicular (closed). If it is closed, turn it parallel and wait a minute for gas to reach the burner before trying to light the pilot again.
Holding the knob down long enough
Many people release the control knob too quickly, which is why the pilot goes out right after they light it. The thermocouple needs time to heat up and send its signal to the gas valve. Hold the knob in the "Pilot" position for at least 30 seconds, and ideally 60 seconds, before releasing it.
While you are holding the knob down, watch the pilot flame. It should be a steady blue flame about half an inch tall. If the flame is yellow or orange, the burner may be dirty or the gas pressure may be low — both issues that a technician should address.
Once you release the knob, the pilot should stay lit. If it does, turn the knob to "On" to ignite the main logs. If it goes out, wait a minute, then try again, holding the knob down for the full 60 seconds.
Safety steps before and after lighting
Before you light the pilot, make sure the room has fresh air. Open a window or door, and if your fireplace has a damper, open it. Gas logs produce carbon monoxide and water vapor, and poor ventilation can create dangerous conditions.
Do not light the pilot if you smell gas. Turn off the gas at the wall valve when ready and open all windows and doors. Leave the house and call your gas company's emergency line from outside. A gas leak is a serious safety hazard and requires professional attention.
After the pilot is lit and the logs are running, keep the area around the fireplace clear of curtains, furniture, and other flammable items. Gas logs get hot, and items too close can catch fire. Also, never leave the logs burning unattended for long periods, and always turn them off before you leave the house or go to bed.
When to call a technician instead of troubleshooting
If you have tried lighting the pilot three times and it will not stay lit, stop and contact a technician. Repeated attempts waste gas and do not solve the underlying problem. A professional can diagnose whether the issue is a dirty thermocouple, a faulty valve, low gas pressure, or something else.
Also call a technician if you smell gas, if the pilot flame is yellow or orange instead of blue, if the logs do not ignite after the pilot is lit, or if the logs produce an unusual smell or sound. These are signs of a problem that requires professional repair.
Most gas fireplace technicians charge a service call fee, usually between $100 and $200, plus the cost of any parts that need replacement. It is money well spent for safety and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I hold the knob down before releasing it?
Hold the knob in the "Pilot" position for at least 30 seconds, and preferably 60 seconds. This gives the thermocouple time to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open. If you release too quickly, the pilot will go out as soon as you let go.
What does the pilot flame look like when it is working correctly?
A healthy pilot flame is steady and blue, about half an inch tall. If the flame is yellow, orange, or flickering, the burner may be dirty or the gas pressure may be low. Contact a technician to have it checked.
Can I light the pilot if I smell gas?
No. If you smell gas, turn off the gas at the wall valve, open all windows and doors, and leave the house. Call your gas company's emergency line from outside. Do not try to light anything or use electrical switches, as a spark could ignite the gas.
What is the thermocouple and why does it matter?
The thermocouple is a small metal rod near the pilot flame that generates a signal when heated. This signal tells the gas valve to stay open. If it is dirty or broken, the pilot will not stay lit. Cleaning it often solves the problem, but a worn thermocouple may need replacement.
Do I need to light the pilot every time I use the gas logs?
Not if you have a standing pilot — it stays lit all the time. If you have an intermittent pilot, you light it each time you turn on the logs. Your manual will tell you which type you have. If you are unsure, check the manufacturer's website or call their customer service.