FAQ: How Does Fireplace Switch Work?

When you flip a wall switch, click on your remote control or the thermostat calls for heat, the gas valve on your fireplace will open. Gas valves generate their own electricity and operate on millivolts, a very small amount of electricity.

What does the switch on my fireplace do?

The wall switch sends an electrical signal to your fireplace to open a valve and release the gas for the pilot light to light it. Without power most fireplace valves will not open.

Why do fireplaces have two switches?

May be for powering a wall recepticule. Common to find two wall switches in an electrical box. One for the fireplace and one for a recepticule in a wall outlet. Or the second switch does power the unit.

How do you turn on a gas fireplace with a switch?

To turn on a gas fireplace with a wall switch, simply locate the switch in the control panel and push the “On” button. You should be able to adjust the intensity of the flame if your gas fireplace is equipped with an adjustable switch. Make sure your gas valve is open before switching on the fireplace.

Will a gas fireplace switch work without electricity?

A gas fireplace with an intermittent pilot ignition (IPI) valve system will remain operational during a power outage. An IPI valve system is an energy-saving electronic system that utilizes an electrode to ignite your pilot gas.

What is the lever on the left side of my fireplace?

The second handle you may find in your fireplace (usually located on the left inside panel) is a control lever for the outside air kit. When burning your fireplace, the outside air kit lever should always be in the open (or up) position. The outside air kit is designed to provide additional air for combustion.

What is a millivolt switch?

This light switch is specifically designed to control a gas log set that utilizes a millivolt pilot control. This pilot system has a small flame that generates power for the unit’s gas valve to operate. As a result, they do not require outside power to operate and can be used in the event of a power outage.

What is the second switch on a fireplace?

One lever opens and closes the damper, allowing the smoke to come up through the flue of the chimney, while a second lever opens and closes the air vents, allowing fresh combustion air to enter and fuel the fire. This prevents smoke from going back inside the room while avoiding CO poisoning.

Why does my gas fireplace have a switch?

Many gas fireplaces come equipped with a wall switch control panel for activating the unit and adjusting the level of the flame. Simply push the “On” button and the pilot should ignite.

Where is the gas fireplace switch?

First, locate the fireplace controls, they are located usually behind a louver or panel at the bottom of the fireplace. Next, locate the control knob on the gas valve, it usually has 3 labels Off, On, and Pilot. You will also want to locate the ignitor button; it looks very similar to a starter on a barbecue grill.

Why is my gas fireplace not turning on?

Another common issue with ignition is a dirty pilot light orifice, caused by a buildup of soot and dirt. If you have successfully re-lit your pilot light, ensured that the orifice is clean, and the fireplace still refuses to ignite, there could be an issue with the thermopile, thermocouple or wiring.

How does gas fireplace wall switch work?

HOW DOES YOUR GAS FIREPLACE START? When you flip a wall switch, click on your remote control or the thermostat calls for heat, the gas valve on your fireplace will open. Gas valves generate their own electricity and operate on millivolts, a very small amount of electricity.

Can I run my gas fireplace without the fan?

A fireplace without a fan will still work safely and effectively utilizing radiant heat to warm up the room & home. During a power outage all wood and direct vent gas fireplaces, Inserts and stoves will continue to work safely producing radiant heat without the need for a fan.