Why You Should Turn Off The Pilot Light Of Your Gas Fireplace

When the weather gets warmer, you may be using your gas fireplace in a lesser time. We recommend that you shut off your gas fireplace pilot light occasionally. Turning off your pilot light at your gas fireplace will save a significant amount of energy and money.

It is vital to note that not all gas fireplaces have a “standing” pilot light, or a pilot light that’s “always-on”. The simplest way to know if you have got this kind of gas fireplace is to look at the fireplace control knob. On a fireplace, you may usually locate the control knob behind the grate or door.

Upon locating this knob, you can tell what kind of pilot light you have if there is a “pilot” position written on the knob (usually written between on and off). And so, if you see the word “pilot” written on the knob, you know you have a pilot light that’s “standing” or “always on.”

Good Reasons To Turn Off Your Gas Fireplace Pilot

When your pilot light remains on, a small amount of heat is generated. The glass doors on your gas fireplace remain warm to the touch. When the weather is hot outside, it makes sense to eliminate any additional heat sources inside the home, especially if you are running air conditioning inside the house.

If a pilot light on a gas fireplace is left on for long periods of time without also turning on the fireplace’s main burner, a white sulphur-based film tends to develop on the inside of the glass. If it is not cleaned properly, it could become etched into the glass. A by-product of the burning pilot light, the sulphur can continue to build upon the glass. If you discover that this has occurred, be sure to look at the appliance manual, which may be available online, for instructions on properly cleaning the glass. If the cleaning is not done, a white haze on the glass might become permanent.

Don’t forget that safety should always be your first priority with fireplaces and gas appliances. If you are unsure about what to do at any moment, or you will feel more comfortable with a professional’s assistance, call Shaul’s at 778-397-4850 or schedule an appointment with us through our website.