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DIY & Home Improvement

mbperrin

(7,672 posts)

5. Thermocouple could be defective.

Reply to hlthe2b (Original post)

Fri Jan 11, 2013, 11:05 PM

Jan 2013

Allows enough opening to keep the pilot lit, but not enough for the burner. Bumping it and making it work makes me think about it. Also possible the mount of the thermocouple is a little loose, and it's slightly out of position, but moves when bumped.

Just an idea - I'm no appliance repair person, but we own rental units, and I've replaced many parts of gas furnaces and fireplaces. A $10 thermocouple has made more than its share of trouble through the years.

Just a thought.

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9 replies

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Anyone know anything about gas fireplaces with electric switch starter? [View all] hlthe2b Jan 2013 OP

Electric starter AND an always-lit pilot light? NYC_SKP Jan 2013 #1

Electric switch apparently is meant to increase the flame, but yes a minimal pilot flame remains lit hlthe2b Jan 2013 #2

If I had to guess, I would say faulty/dirty flame dectector or wiring to it. Thor_MN Jan 2013 #3

That makes sense (and also might explain why banging on the glass might make a difference) hlthe2b Jan 2013 #4

It's holding the thumb switch down long enough for the sensor to heat up Warpy Jan 2013 #6

Call a local fireplace store. jeff47 Jan 2013 #8

Good to know hlthe2b Jan 2013 #9

Thermocouple could be defective. mbperrin Jan 2013 #5

Call landlord if you rent. Serviceman if you own. TheMadMonk Jan 2013 #7