The basic steps to light a pilot light

To light a pilot light on a gas fireplace, locate the control knob on the front of the fireplace (usually near the bottom) and turn it to the "Pilot" setting. Hold a long lighter or lit match near the pilot burner opening while pressing and holding the ignition button or knob. The pilot light should ignite within a few seconds. Once it lights, continue holding the knob in the "Pilot" position for 30 to 60 seconds to let the thermocouple warm up, then release it. If the flame stays lit, turn the knob to "On" to resume normal operation.

If you cannot see the pilot burner opening clearly, check your fireplace manual for its exact location — it is usually a small hole or tube near the main burner. Some fireplaces have a window or access panel you may need to open first. Make sure the gas valve is turned on at the wall or floor before you begin.

If the pilot light will not stay lit after you release the knob, the thermocouple may be dirty or failing. Turn the knob back to "Off" and wait a few minutes before trying again. If it still will not hold, you may need to clean the thermocouple or call a technician.

Key Takeaways

  • Turn the control knob to "Pilot," hold a lighter near the burner opening, and press the ignition button until the flame appears.
  • Keep the knob pressed in the "Pilot" position for 30 to 60 seconds after the light ignites so the thermocouple can warm up.
  • If the pilot light goes out when you release the knob, the thermocouple is likely dirty or worn and may need cleaning or replacement.
  • Always check that the main gas valve at the wall or floor is on before you attempt to light the pilot.

What to do if the pilot light will not ignite

If you press the ignition button and no spark appears, check that the gas valve is fully open. A valve that is only partially open will not deliver enough gas to the pilot burner. Turn it clockwise until it stops, then try again.

If you hear a spark but see no flame, the pilot burner opening may be clogged with dust or debris. Turn the knob to "Off," wait a few minutes, and then use a straightened paper clip or thin wire to gently clear the opening. Do not force it or use sharp tools that could damage the burner. Try lighting again after you have cleared it.

If the ignition button produces no spark at all, the igniter may be faulty. Some fireplaces have a battery-powered igniter that may need new batteries. Check the manual to see where the battery compartment is located and whether batteries are user-replaceable. If the igniter is built into the control unit, you will likely need a technician to replace it.

Why the pilot light keeps going out

The most common reason a pilot light will not stay lit is a faulty or dirty thermocouple. The thermocouple is a small metal rod that sits in the pilot flame and signals the gas valve to stay open. When it gets too cold or too dirty, it stops sending that signal and the valve closes, extinguishing the flame.

To clean the thermocouple, turn the knob to "Off" and wait for the fireplace to cool. Locate the thermocouple (your manual will show where) and gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth or fine steel wool to remove any buildup. Do not bend it or explore heavy pressure. Turn the knob back to "Pilot" and try lighting again.

If cleaning does not work, the thermocouple may have reached the end of its life and will need to be replaced. This is a job for a technician, as it requires disconnecting gas lines and ensuring the new one is installed correctly and safely.

Safety steps before you start

Before you light the pilot, make sure the fireplace has been off for at least five minutes. This allows any gas that may have accumulated to disperse. Smell around the fireplace opening — if you detect a strong gas odor, do not attempt to light it. Turn off the gas valve, open windows, and call your gas company or a technician.

Check that the area around the fireplace is clear of flammable materials like curtains, papers, or furniture. Keep your face and hands at a safe distance from the burner opening when you light it, as the flame can flare up suddenly.

If you have a fireplace with an electronic ignition system (one that lights automatically when you turn it on), you should not need to light the pilot manually. If it fails to ignite on its own, refer to your manual or contact a technician rather than attempting manual ignition.

When to call a technician instead

If you have tried lighting the pilot three times and it will not stay lit, stop and call a technician. Repeated failed attempts can allow gas to build up in the fireplace, which is a safety hazard.

You should also call a technician if you smell gas but cannot locate a leak, if the flame is yellow or orange instead of blue, if the fireplace makes unusual sounds, or if you see visible damage to the burner or control unit. A yellow or orange flame can indicate incomplete combustion, which produces carbon monoxide — a serious safety issue.

If your fireplace is still under warranty, check the manual to see whether attempting manual ignition voids the warranty. Some manufacturers require that all service be performed by a licensed technician.

Understanding your fireplace control knob

Most gas fireplace control knobs have three positions: "Off," "Pilot," and "On." The "Off" position shuts off all gas flow. The "Pilot" position allows a small amount of gas to flow to the pilot burner only, which is what you use when lighting. The "On" position opens the main burner and allows the fireplace to heat normally.

Some fireplaces have a separate ignition button next to the knob, while others require you to push the knob itself to trigger the spark. Check your manual to see which applies to your model. A few older fireplaces do not have an electronic igniter at all and require you to use a lighter or match to light the pilot manually.

If your fireplace has a remote control, the remote may override the manual knob. Make sure the remote is not set to "Off" before you try to light the pilot with the knob.

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 send the signal to keep the gas valve open. If you release it too soon, the valve will close and the flame will go out. Your manual may specify an exact time — follow that if it does.

Can I light the pilot with a regular lighter instead of a match?

Yes, a long lighter works better than a match because it keeps your hand farther from the flame. A standard short lighter may be too close to the burner opening and can be uncomfortable or unsafe to use. Matches work but require you to hold them steady while pressing the ignition button.

What does it mean if the pilot flame is yellow instead of blue?

A yellow or orange flame usually means the burner is not getting enough air or the gas is not burning completely. This can produce carbon monoxide, which is dangerous. Turn off the fireplace and call a technician. Do not continue using it until it has been inspected.

Is it normal for the pilot light to go out in windy weather?

If your fireplace is vented to the outside, strong wind can sometimes blow the pilot flame out. If this happens regularly, a technician can install a wind guard or adjust the venting. In the meantime, you can relight it using the steps above.

Do I need to turn off the gas at the wall before I light the pilot?

No — the gas valve at the wall should stay on. You control the flow to the pilot using the fireplace control knob. Only turn off the wall valve if you smell a strong gas leak or if you are shutting down the fireplace for an extended period.