Isn’t it spooky when a gas fireplace turns on by itself?
At first, it may appear like a scene from a horror movie.
However, on a careful analysis, the reasons will appear logical.
What is the mystery behind why the gas fireplace turns on by itself?
The main reason behind this is always the faulty parts. You see, the damaged thermocouple or remote might be the reason. Other times, some wiring issues or switch problem arises that cause the fireplace to light on its own.
Did that puzzle up your brain? Well, don’t worry, we have an entire article that’ll help you understand the reasons in detail. So, shall we take a peek at it then?
4 Reasons why gas fireplace turns on by itself
We always seem to blame the dead for our house’s strange things. Like if the oven turns on its own or if the fireplace lights up automatically.
However, ghosts are usually never the reason. There is always a scientific reason behind this. And today we’ll explain why a gas fireplace turns on by itself.
So, stay tuned folks.
Reason 1: A faulty thermocouple
Most of the time the gas fireplace lights up because of a faulty thermocouple. Now, what is a thermocouple? Well, it’s a device that senses the heat in the room and grants permission to the pilot light to remain turned on.
So, as you can see it’s an essential component of the gas fireplace. But if it is damaged by any means it can cause serious trouble to the gas fireplace.
And by now, you might have already guessed one. Yes, it automatically turns the fireplace on.
As for the solution, all you have to do is change the thermocouple. This will sort out the problem. And your gas fireplace will be working like its usual self again.
Reason 2: Some wiring problem
Another mischievous element responsible for the core issue is the wires. You see, they can cause all sorts of problems.
They can either burn out or tangle up and cause a short circuit.
This causes miscommunication in the wiring system. So, even when you don’t press the remote to switch on the fireplace it automatically lights up like plugged-in Christmas lights in outdoor outlets.
And most of the time, two wires are the main culprit. One of them comes from the receiver and connects to the gas valve. The other routes are from the toggle switch to the gas valve.
These two wires mesh-up and create havoc. By that we mean the toggle switch can team up with the receiver and turn on the fireplace whenever the two wires touch each other.
At the same time, other wires can also cause this problem. So, checking up on all the wires is a good idea.
Sometimes it can also get difficult to plug the wires into the outlet. Hence, be careful of that.
Reason 3: Remote issues
One more reason for the problem can be the remote control. We are all familiar with how the remote works but sometimes they can go out of control.
So, if it malfunctions, you may see some disturbance with its primary function. In other words, your remote goes crazy and controls the fireplace at its own will.
Thus for a temporary solution, you can remove the batteries from the remote. However, you need to replace the remote or fix its problem for a permanent and long-lasting solution.
Reason 4: Problem with the wall switch
The last suspect on our list is the wall switch. Now, most people don’t have a remote controller for their fireplaces. Instead, they use a wall switch.
And as the remote and wall switch have the same primary function, the wall switch can also be the culprit.
Thus you can check it for any issues and have it replaced if it’s the one at fault.
In case you want to change to a double-sided fireplace, problems will also occur in that one if not installed correctly.
FAQs
Should you turn off the gas fireplace in the summer?
It is always a great idea to keep the fireplace turned off in summer. That’s because it saves money and time, which is the ultimate goal.
Where is the thermocouple on a gas fireplace?
The thermocouple is the wire that extends from the gas valve of the gas fireplace. So, if you locate the gas valve, you locate the thermocouple.
Does a gas fireplace have an automated shut-off switch?
The latest models of gas fireplaces are equipped with an automated switch to act as a safety feature in case of any troubles.