Removed a section in my camper where the entertainment area is and installed. Works great. Instead of propane furnace heat, I can use this ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxATHBlMJwipGgVWseuAFKvDQ_5R4_lywo to heat the camper as long as it's hooked up to shore power. Only thing I do not like is there does not seem to be a thermostat. I'm presuming it has a built-in one so it does not overheat. Really like all the other color options it has to offer.
thank you so much for this video. it is ridiculous how much some fireplace technicians charge for what might be a very simple issue like my pilot light going out. i called a fireplace technician to fix my fireplace for $300 and just weeks later it stopped working again. Frustrated, i watched your video to understand how these fireplaces work and was just able to relight my pilot light and completely solve the issue on my own. we need more people like you making videos and honestly i would even be willing to just pay $5 for a video like this to debug it myself rather than spend $300 for a fireplace technician come over.
Great video, thank you. I did my annual pre-season cleaning of the burners, thermocouple, vacuuming and blowing compressed air into all areas. My pilot would stay lit, but when I flipped the switch, nothing would happen. Took the switch out and touched the wires together and voila, the burners lit. Just need to buy a new one tomorrow and I will be good to go. Thanks so much, I never thought about the switch going bad. Your video saved me a lot of hassle!
Had an issue with my fireplace not staying on so I Googled and came across your video. I just wanted to thank you for sharing this because it gave me the confidence to troubleshoot my own which I ended up fixing because of a bad switch. Not only did I save money but I learned a lot more about my fireplace. I was always a bit afraid because it involved gas but now I have a better understanding of how they operate. So a big Thank you to you! 👍🏾🙂
Thank you Mike!! I had to go all the way down to vacuuming out the pilot tube and sandpaper on the thermopile before I could get mine working but we are back in business. I could have never done it without your video. You are much appreciated.
Holy cats!! This video helped me troubleshoot my fireplace and I was able to fix it on my own without having to pay someone serious $$$! Thank you - super appreciated!! Seriously, a repair person told me I needed to replace the entire unit.
Who would you even call to repair one of these? Two things I don’t mess with - gas & electrical things. Our gas provider doesn’t repair them, and we aren’t sure who installed this fireplace. It looks like the previous owner installed it - there’s no accessible gas shutoff for it, we have to turn it off at the mains coming into the house.😢 I don’t wanna go BOOM!
I just found this video and followed it step by step and my fire place is lit! My thermostat needed replacing, but it wasn't the issue. The thermocouple wasn't getting hot enough to open the gas valve. Thanks for posting. Really easy to follow along!
Wow! Our fireplace has been out of commission since we bought our home. I finally stumbled upon your video and it’s burning bright now. Thank you so much!
You just saved me some bucks. Thank you. Biggest help was explaining the low voltage switch and I was apprehensive. Turned out to be the switch! Off to the hardware store for an easy fix. Again, thank you! Excellent video.
Thank you for your video, an the part where you were showing the nice trick with the paperclip, I used a pair of pliers since I didn't have a paperclip on hand, and discovered that to make my newly installed fireplace work, I needed an on/off switch like you had on the wall. I discovered this after downloading an installation manual onto my phone.
Thank you for the very informative video. I went through the trouble shooting process you demonstrated and now my fireplace is functioning as normal. Here in Minnesota it is 28 degrees, this really helps keep the lower level in my home warm.
I spent three hours, cleaning thermopile and trying other stuff and i still could not get my fireplace beyond the pilot light. I came across your video and volla...it was a bad switch...thank you for posting this video and helping out...keep it up.
Jim Myers After calling a serviceman to diagnose the problem I got a quote for $1000 to replace the gas controller (a $119 part). I dismissed him and looked into it myself. Your video was spot on. I found corroded wires at the switch/thermostat. Trimmed wires and cleaned terminals was all that was needed. Thanks for saving me $$$.
Exact same thing happened to me! Gas guy wanted to replace the the valve but after doing some research and watching this video, I found out it was a faulty wall switch! Thanks!
Thank you. My thermopile voltage was less than 200 mV and my pilot had some orange in it. I thought for sure a new thermopile was needed, I vacuumed the pilot and the voltage jumped up to 440 mV and all good!
Thank you kindly. Switch was good, jumper didn't work. So a wire brush brought the yellow orange flames to a blue torch after cleaning. Shortly after it heated up. Flipped the wall switch and poof. 🔥 :) thank you very much.
Thank you for the extremely helpful video Mr. Klimek. I opened the switch and touched two cables manually but nothing changed. Then I used a paper clipped and touch the screws like you showed and it worked. So, what should I do at this point? Which parts do I need to change? Thank you,
The problem will be from the terminal-wiring-switch-wiring-terminal. Since the switch didn't work that leaves the wiring and terminals. I would remove the wires from the terminals and clean the terminals and connectors to make sure they are getting good contact, and reconnect them. If that doesn't work look to the wires
thank you sir, my ground electrical connection from the wall switch to the gas valve was loose, I wiggled it and viola! It must have came loose when I vaccumed the area this summer
You’re an effective teacher 👍🏼 I just have one question because I’m not that knowledgeable of multi meters. How did you know the acceptable range was 325?
Folks, don't discount the wall switch solution. You can test wall switch continuity by just removing the cover plate; most multimeters have a continuity setting. Anything above 0.00 with the switch ON means the switch is bad. For me, it was an 85 cent solution!
The yellow tipping on the pilot flame made a dirty pilot orifice the likely cause of the problem. The vacuum boosted the milivolts up to a proper level. Better would be to disconnect the gas at the pilot, which allows the pilot orifice to be removed. The pattern of the orifice openings makes proper cleaning problematic, so correct procedure would be to put in a new pilot orifice. Shopping for a pilot orifice and having it on hand for when needed would be a worthwhile idea.
Your troubleshooting of the switch and jumping at the control panel was exactly what I needed to solve my issue. My switch is not working correctly. Come summer I'm going to do the cleanup of the pilot light as you described also. Thank you for this simple and very effective video.
I think there is a reason so many people are having problems with their wall switches controlling a fireplace. Surprisingly, running low-voltage/direct current through a switch designed for alternating current, the contacts will fail prematurely Compared to AC. Using the ubiquitous ac switch may cause lots of temperamental problems. Any fellow engineers agree with these statements?
Hey Mike, your walk through was helpful and thorough. I diagnosed my issue thanks to you. However, my problem is wiring. The wire (cloth covered) that ties in to the valve terminal has a 90-degree kink and there must be a break therein. After wiggling it while switch is on, I get a flame. So, there's my problem. Where can I find this specific type of replacement wire to remedy my issue? Your reply is appreciated.
If the wire is long enough, you could cut it at the break and install the terminal to it. Otherwise you could take a sample to an electrical wholesaler for a replacement or try a search for "thermopile wire".
Thank you Mike for giving back and sharing your knowledge for free while many others want a fee....jumped/fixed it myself...you called it - Bad Switch....the country needs more people like you!
@@MikeKlimek (I posted this)Thanks for the good informative video. My pilot light stays on. But when I turn the pilot valve on, the pilot light goes out. Checked thermopile voltage, that reads 750 Mv. I had cleaned the thermopiles. Please help, what else could be done. Thanks.
@@kayess007 Hard to tell without being there, but you could replace the valve. Whatever repair person you talked to is not telling you the truth. It certainly would not cost as much as replacing the fireplace!
Thank you Mike for this much informative narrative. It allowed me to gain the courage to forge forward and rely on my own abilities to work on my unit in lieu calling in a repair man which i would guess would have set me back $$$. I had a bad switch on my original assembly from the factory. In any event I cleaned out my pilot assembly just as a precaution. All the best to you SIR!
A couple of questions: 1. Is the pilot solid blue with no yellow tips? 2. What number does the thermopile test at? 3 Did you try the paperclip when it went out?
I'm just gonna say this, YOURE A LIFE SAVER! I literally researched this for days b4 finding your video. At the least I'ma share it, like it, suggest it. I did the wall switch and it lit, then the wall switch started acting normal after🤷🏾♂️. I appreciate you, and this is what inspired me to do videos on UA-cam. Ppl like you that actually help, so I'll get back to it soon. Thanks again
Great video great explanations! Clear and to the point! I had a quick question, I use a jumper wire between the 2 terminals, the flame comes right on and works. Only works while I hold the jumper wire in place. When I remove the wire, the flame goes out and the pilot light stays on. Wonder what to test next. Thank you
This is a reposting: I was troubleshooting every which way on my Napolean GD25 gas fireplace. In a nutshell, this video allowed me to start the fireplace after over 8 years of it being dormant. Thank you! It was the trick using a piece of wire - TH to TPTH - that opened the gas valve and lit the burner, making me incredibly happy. I also made progress by blowing out the pilot orifice (as suggested in this video), replacing the thermopile and thermocouple, and blowing out the burner orifice. I'll never know what the problem was specifically, but all is well that ends well!
Hey Mike, I just watched this video and when I jumped the tp, tpth the stove lit up. I'm just unsure now that I've done that, what the actual part that needs to be replaced is. Thanks in advance for your help
So your problem is isolated to the terminals, wiring, and switch. I would check the switch first, and probably clean the terminals and connections at the tp/tpth
Thanks Mike for this video. I went through your troubleshooting step by step. I scraped/sanded/poked with a sharp tool then vacuumed out the pilot mechanism. I went from 268 to 450+ on the multi-meter. Wife is happy. Thanks!
I feel really stupid. I couldn't get the main burner to light. I tore it apart and cleaned everything a few times, disassembled it a couple times and still couldnt figure out what was wrong. I started to watch your video and you mentioned the "switch" to give it power. The switch on mine is kinda hidden on the wall around the side of the fireplace. I looked, found it in the OFF position, turned it on and viola! The fireplace lit!
Mike, appreciate your tips on gas fireplaces. I have two 20+ year old Napoleon ones where the pilot light won’t stay lit no matter how long I hold the button in. A technician came out and told me the gas valve needed replacing. (Thermocouple was good) About 1k to do the work. Is this something a mechanical kind of guy can do or should it be left to the professionals?
Cleaning the pilot seems like a good thing to do whenever you have gotten in there. I like that you covered several maintenance tips in addition to fixing your main problem
Amazing!! I have the problem down to the wiring between the wall switch and the terminal. Any chance you have a video on problem solving this issue? You've been so helpful.
OK Chantel, first disconnect the wiring from the terminals and clean them. You can use fine sandpaper or a scuff pad. The point is to make sure you are getting good contact between the ends of the wires and the terminals. Just to make sure, if you remove the switch and touch the wires together, the burner does not light correct? And when you jump the valve with a paper clip the burner does light?
Thanks for the jumper idea! Even though my multimeter showed a closed circuit, the valve wasn't opening. Once I knew it was a wiring issue, I was able to get it working.
mine ended up being a non drilled flame hole from the factory - everwarm unit. u can see where it was supposed to be drilled but didnt. drilled it out and fixed it. everwarm quality controls needs some help.
My Mendota fireplace seems to be lighting intermittently. the pilot light is fine, I've cleaned the thermopile and the numbers look good, I've crossed the terminals as you suggested. I've tried adjusting the vent, trying with and without the glass cover, but nothing seems to consistently work. It seems to stay lit as long as I want if it does light, but then I turn it off and hours later it just refuses to light no matter what I do. Any suggestions?
Situations like these are hard to troubleshoot. Do you have some type of safety switch at the perimeter of the glass that is possibly bad? You may be looking at a new valve.
@@MikeKlimek I don't see any switches like that. I tested the thermopile and when I flip the switch it drops from about 650-700 down to 30s, when I research this I think it's only supposed to drop about half. The thermocouple tests normal and the pilot stays lit all the time so I think that's good. Since the thermopile is so cheap to replace I'm going to try that first. If it doesn't help then I'll probably look into the valve replacement. Thank you
Just wanted to stop by and say Thank You! Fixed my fireplace today thanks to this video. Learned something new, didn't have to flip the breaker, learned how to jump the connection and successfully replaced a borked light switch. Earned a new subscriber!
Same symptoms and resolution here. We have plans to convert to a pellet insert and didn't want to spend the cash on a service call on an appliance that has its days numbered.
Thanks for the video! This helped me to find that my wall switch was bad, which I did not expect. Everything else seemed to point to my thermopile, but using a multimeter I found that my switch was intermittently not making contact when turned on.
Hello Mike, could you please help me understand my propane fireplace . I clean the pilot part and it stays on. the wall switch works but when the flame comes up it turns blue and later goes out. Please let me know if you have any suggestions
I'm not sure if my situation is quite the same. My pilot light will light easily and stay on. Once the switch is turned on, the fireplace will light but will go out in about 15-30 seconds. I tested the thermopile with the volt meter. When the switch is off, it reads approx 425mv. Once I turn the flame on, it drops to about 250mv, but then it just keeps dropping and dropping until the flame/pilot shuts off (below 110mv). Would this be a faulty thermopile? Fireplace was recently cleaned within the last 2 months and pilot is strong.
Hi, I have a similar gas valve. The pilot is blue stays on no problem. But when I call for the main burner to come on it won't. The thermopile voltage is around 580mv open circuit and about 360mv closed circuit. Even with the paper clip it won't turn on. Is it a bad gas valve? Thanks
So still wanting to learn what if the main burner doesn’t it stay lit? Our pilot stays on, main burner lights immediately but it shuts off after 2-3 minutes. Maybe same issue as in video? Thermopile not getting enough heat? Bad thermopile?
My pilot stays lit, the main burners will come on…but when the thermostat shuts it off it turns off the pilot light too. It’s like everything goes off after a few minutes. I can go and turn it right back on with no problems but it will just keep doing it. Funny thing…when I shut it off manually, pilot will stay on like it should. 🤷♂️
@@MikeKlimek Mostly true and blue but intermittently will have orange streaks. I tried vacuuming it out today and it seemed to work longer without turning off but the problem is the pilot is not vertical like yours it’s horizontal so imma have to rig some kind of attachment hose to get any closer. There isn’t some kind of tilt safety mechanism like on an electric stand up heater is there? I ask bc there are some rocks wedged under it making it wobble sometimes. I thought about disconnecting it from the wall and removing all the volcanic rock so I could re-seat it nice and level…but I don’t even know if that would help? Thanks so much for reaching out and trying to help, this is so frustrating. I’ve already had one person come and “fix” it. 😒
@@mwm48 That sounds very strange. It should not move and I certainly wouldn't try to rig something. I would try to move out the rock as you said and clean up the area. The pilot should not move and you shouldn't have to rig something to make it fit. It sounds like something is loose at the pilot. Be safe on this and follow your common sense!
Super helpful! Thanks, Mike. Using the paperclip, I found my problem was the wiring from my fireplace to the switch. This was especially helpful for me as I needed the fireplace heat while we are waiting for our boiler to get replaced. Thanks again!
Mike, I did everything, the valve is fine with the jumper.. however, the switch still isn't lighting the fireplace. when I connect the wires together they still do not work? Please advise?
You're problem will be in the loop that goes from the screw terminals to the wiring, to the switch and back. Somewhere in there lies your problem. I would probably start with cleaning the terminals and making sure the wiring is getting good contact, then move to down the line to the wiring and switch.
Thank you so much, Mike! My fireplace had just stopped lighting a few days ago (pilot still lit but with some orange tips). Found your video and was completely able to diagnose and fix the issue. I had to remove the pilot hood to really get a good cleaning (vacuum helped but not enough by itself). But doing so allowed me to clean thoroughly, restore the bright blue flame on the pilot and it is now heating the thermocouple enough to light the burner. Problem solved without having to call a repair company. The troubleshooting tests you covered were especially instructive and following them made me persevere to the best possible conclusion. Again... many thanks for taking the time. Cheers!
Well thank you Sir, I am looking forward to install one gas operated Fireplace. I would like to know if possible all about installing one at my place. I am from Mauritius.Thanks
That way the fire goes out a few seconds after the cooling fan shuts down on millivolt systems including pilot. So re-ignition will be required when the power comes back.
Hey Mike, thanks for the video. When I did the paper clip test, I hear the ‘click’ and the pilot goes out. The multimeter is reading around 180-190. Does this mean I need to change the thermopile?
Hey thanks for doing this it’s-10 degrees in Chicago & fireplace quit - was bad switch . You saved the day need more kind souls like yourself sharing. All the best!
Hey Mike, thanks for the video. Nothing when jumping the switch or the paperclip trick. I'm not getting any reading at all on my multimeter. Do you think the thermoalpile is bad? The pilot stays lit. Thoughts? Thanks!
Sir, my fireplace stopped working couple years ago and every winter my wife would tell me to fix it. I tried everything for the past two winters but in vain. Well today, my wife told me to fix it or she is going to call someone to fix it. I looked up troubleshooting on UA-cam and came across your video. Tried the paper clip method and it turned on. Opened the wall switch and unplugged and replugged the wires and boom, problem solved. Thanks so much for the video.
I don’t have a switch on the wall, we have some stupid box and remote control that I’ve never had (this is my folks fireplace). Is there a way I can totally disconnect that crap so I can simply light my pilot light, hold in a few then turn to on with my flames lighting??
@@MikeKlimek Mike!!! I DID IT!! I was losing my patience with her remote and the little box. So I slept on it, went back watching all the videos once again, and finally got it working when I left it on pilot instead of turning up the gas as I’m use to when no remote is involved. Anyways, thank you. I kept at it, checked all the components until I made it work.
Thank. you -- You SHOULD ADD a button up top (where the clip/download/share buttons are) that allow viewers to "tip" you. I recently was able to fix a tankless hot water issue and the guy had such a button -- looks like heart with a $ sign inside. I tossed him $30 cuz he saved me an expensive plumber visit. Your video allowed me to buy a $15 switch (side of unit toggle) and again, saved me a much larger bill. Love to donate if you get it set up. Thanks again.
Removed a section in my camper where the entertainment area is and installed. Works great. Instead of propane furnace heat, I can use this ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxATHBlMJwipGgVWseuAFKvDQ_5R4_lywo to heat the camper as long as it's hooked up to shore power. Only thing I do not like is there does not seem to be a thermostat. I'm presuming it has a built-in one so it does not overheat. Really like all the other color options it has to offer.
Hope it helps you!
The most valueable DIY video! I fixed my fireplace which couldn't be lit last winter - resovled by replaceing the wall switch only. Thank you Mike!
Welcome!
thank you so much for this video. it is ridiculous how much some fireplace technicians charge for what might be a very simple issue like my pilot light going out. i called a fireplace technician to fix my fireplace for $300 and just weeks later it stopped working again. Frustrated, i watched your video to understand how these fireplaces work and was just able to relight my pilot light and completely solve the issue on my own. we need more people like you making videos and honestly i would even be willing to just pay $5 for a video like this to debug it myself rather than spend $300 for a fireplace technician come over.
Glad to hear you got it figured out and working!
Great video, thank you. I did my annual pre-season cleaning of the burners, thermocouple, vacuuming and blowing compressed air into all areas. My pilot would stay lit, but when I flipped the switch, nothing would happen. Took the switch out and touched the wires together and voila, the burners lit. Just need to buy a new one tomorrow and I will be good to go. Thanks so much, I never thought about the switch going bad. Your video saved me a lot of hassle!
Glad to help Kurt!
Had an issue with my fireplace not staying on so I Googled and came across your video. I just wanted to thank you for sharing this because it gave me the confidence to troubleshoot my own which I ended up fixing because of a bad switch. Not only did I save money but I learned a lot more about my fireplace. I was always a bit afraid because it involved gas but now I have a better understanding of how they operate. So a big Thank you to you! 👍🏾🙂
Awesome Joe-glad to help!
Thank you Mike!! I had to go all the way down to vacuuming out the pilot tube and sandpaper on the thermopile before I could get mine working but we are back in business. I could have never done it without your video. You are much appreciated.
Awesome Marc-glad it helped you!
Holy cats!! This video helped me troubleshoot my fireplace and I was able to fix it on my own without having to pay someone serious $$$! Thank you - super appreciated!! Seriously, a repair person told me I needed to replace the entire unit.
LOL-you're welcome! Sounds like you had a dishonest repair person...
Who would you even call to repair one of these? Two things I don’t mess with - gas & electrical things. Our gas provider doesn’t repair them, and we aren’t sure who installed this fireplace. It looks like the previous owner installed it - there’s no accessible gas shutoff for it, we have to turn it off at the mains coming into the house.😢
I don’t wanna go BOOM!
I just found this video and followed it step by step and my fire place is lit! My thermostat needed replacing, but it wasn't the issue. The thermocouple wasn't getting hot enough to open the gas valve. Thanks for posting. Really easy to follow along!
That's great! Happy it helped you
Man, you are a Genius. Saved me money with your simple tips. Thank you very much!!
LOL! You're welcome Syed!
After a painful winter last year with our gas heater I can now enjoy this year. Thanks for your easy to follow video.
You're welcome Ross!
Wow! Our fireplace has been out of commission since we bought our home. I finally stumbled upon your video and it’s burning bright now. Thank you so much!
Way to go Paul! Awesome!
Thank you so much for this video. Saved me so much money and confusion! Got my fireplace working just off of this and the previous fireplace video.
Sweet! Stay warm!
Thank You for making this video !! It helped me to get my friends fireplace working again !!
Awesome Wayne, glad it helped!
You just saved me some bucks. Thank you. Biggest help was explaining the low voltage switch and I was apprehensive. Turned out to be the switch! Off to the hardware store for an easy fix. Again, thank you! Excellent video.
Awesome Nathan! Glad it helped you!
Saved me several hundred dollars as well! Broken switch wire. Thank You!
Awesome John-glad it helped you!
Fixed my fireplace thanks to the advice from this video!! Thank you so much
Well of course you did Mac! Welcome!
Thank you for your video, an the part where you were showing the nice trick with the paperclip, I used a pair of pliers since I didn't have a paperclip on hand, and discovered that to make my newly installed fireplace work, I needed an on/off switch like you had on the wall. I discovered this after downloading an installation manual onto my phone.
Wow and it's newly installed. That's a shame. Thank goodness for owners manuals
Hey Mike I really appreciate this, I was prepared to buy a thermocouple or thermopile and you saved the day it was just wiring! Cheers Mike
Awesome Mike, glad to help!
Excellent! I watched lots of videos and you have been the only one who taught me how to test the wall switch .... thank you so much
Awesome! You're Welcome!
Thank you for the very informative video. I went through the trouble shooting process you demonstrated and now my fireplace is functioning as normal. Here in Minnesota it is 28 degrees, this really helps keep the lower level in my home warm.
That's great to hear Zeke-glad it helped you. Stay warm!
Very well done video. Shorting the switch got my main gas to light even though my switch worked fine after jumping it. Thank you!
Awesome-glad to help you!
Touching the wires together to make sure it's a faulty switch, great tip - thank you.
Welcome! Glad it helped!
This was a well done video, thank you!
Welcome!
I spent three hours, cleaning thermopile and trying other stuff and i still could not get my fireplace beyond the pilot light. I came across your video and volla...it was a bad switch...thank you for posting this video and helping out...keep it up.
Awesome-glad you figured it out!
Great explanation. You answered a lot of my questions.
Sweet-glad to help!
Jim Myers
After calling a serviceman to diagnose the problem I got a quote for $1000 to replace the gas controller (a $119 part). I dismissed him and looked into it myself. Your video was spot on. I found corroded wires at the switch/thermostat. Trimmed wires and cleaned terminals was all that was needed. Thanks for saving me $$$.
LOL That's just awesome! Love to hear it! Happy to help you!
Exact same thing happened to me! Gas guy wanted to replace the the valve but after doing some research and watching this video, I found out it was a faulty wall switch! Thanks!
great video, bad thermocouple and a good cleaning!!!!!
Way to go Bennie!
Excellent job of making it make sense.. Bravo!
Thank you-hope it helped!
Thank you. My thermopile voltage was less than 200 mV and my pilot had some orange in it. I thought for sure a new thermopile was needed, I vacuumed the pilot and the voltage jumped up to 440 mV and all good!
Sweeeeeettt! Glad it worked for you!
Thank you. Dirty pilot burner was the problem. My kingsman fp needed 500mv.
Fast fixes are the best!
Thank you so much! I was able to fix my issue and I am sitting here enjoying a fire!
NIce!!!
Thank you kindly. Switch was good, jumper didn't work. So a wire brush brought the yellow orange flames to a blue torch after cleaning. Shortly after it heated up. Flipped the wall switch and poof. 🔥 :) thank you very much.
Awesome! Glad it helped!
Your vacuum method will save me several minutes on a clogged pilot tubing call. I always disconnect from the valve and clear with co2 cartridge.
Glad to help!
Thank you for the extremely helpful video Mr. Klimek. I opened the switch and touched two cables manually but nothing changed. Then I used a paper clipped and touch the screws like you showed and it worked. So, what should I do at this point? Which parts do I need to change? Thank you,
The problem will be from the terminal-wiring-switch-wiring-terminal. Since the switch didn't work that leaves the wiring and terminals. I would remove the wires from the terminals and clean the terminals and connectors to make sure they are getting good contact, and reconnect them. If that doesn't work look to the wires
You're my hero! Paper clip worked!!!
Awesome! Glad it helped!
Very imformative and easy to understand tios, thank you, Mike!
You're Welcome Paul!
thank you sir, my ground electrical connection from the wall switch to the gas valve was loose, I wiggled it and viola! It must have came loose when I vaccumed the area this summer
Sweet Sylvia! Easy fixes are the best!
You’re an effective teacher 👍🏼 I just have one question because I’m not that knowledgeable of multi meters. How did you know the acceptable range was 325?
Experience...plus you should find it in your manufacturer's owners manual.
Folks, don't discount the wall switch solution. You can test wall switch continuity by just removing the cover plate; most multimeters have a continuity setting. Anything above 0.00 with the switch ON means the switch is bad. For me, it was an 85 cent solution!
Excellent video. Thank you!
You're Welcome Edward!
Appreciate your help Mike!
You're Welcome Vigi!
The yellow tipping on the pilot flame made a dirty pilot orifice the likely cause of the problem.
The vacuum boosted the milivolts up to a proper level.
Better would be to disconnect the gas at the pilot, which allows the pilot orifice to be removed. The pattern of the orifice openings makes proper cleaning problematic, so correct procedure would be to put in a new pilot orifice.
Shopping for a pilot orifice and having it on hand for when needed would be a worthwhile idea.
Super helpful, thanks
You're welcome Adam!
Your troubleshooting of the switch and jumping at the control panel was exactly what I needed to solve my issue. My switch is not working correctly. Come summer I'm going to do the cleanup of the pilot light as you described also. Thank you for this simple and very effective video.
That's awesome! Glad it helped you!
Thanks for posting. It was helpful.
Welcome!
I think there is a reason so many people are having problems with their wall switches controlling a fireplace. Surprisingly, running low-voltage/direct current through a switch designed for alternating current, the contacts will fail prematurely Compared to AC. Using the ubiquitous ac switch may cause lots of temperamental problems. Any fellow engineers agree with these statements?
Thanks Mike...good info!
Welcome Ralph!
Hey Mike, your walk through was helpful and thorough. I diagnosed my issue thanks to you. However, my problem is wiring. The wire (cloth covered) that ties in to the valve terminal has a 90-degree kink and there must be a break therein. After wiggling it while switch is on, I get a flame. So, there's my problem. Where can I find this specific type of replacement wire to remedy my issue? Your reply is appreciated.
If the wire is long enough, you could cut it at the break and install the terminal to it. Otherwise you could take a sample to an electrical wholesaler for a replacement or try a search for "thermopile wire".
Thank you Mike for giving back and sharing your knowledge for free while many others want a fee....jumped/fixed it myself...you called it - Bad Switch....the country needs more people like you!
Awesome! A cheap and easy fix!
During these expensive times, these types of videos really help those of us in a pinch. Thank you so, so much :)
You're welcome Donna!
@@MikeKlimek Hi Mikd can you please answer my question. The repair person said fixing will cost as new fireplace.
@@kayess007 I scrolled through the comments and didn't see your question. What is it?
@@MikeKlimek (I posted this)Thanks for the good informative video. My pilot light stays on. But when I turn the pilot valve on, the pilot light goes out. Checked thermopile voltage, that reads 750 Mv. I had cleaned the thermopiles. Please help, what else could be done. Thanks.
@@kayess007 Hard to tell without being there, but you could replace the valve. Whatever repair person you talked to is not telling you the truth. It certainly would not cost as much as replacing the fireplace!
Thank you!
Welcome!
Thank you Mike for this much informative narrative. It allowed me to gain the courage to forge forward and rely on my own abilities to work
on my unit in lieu calling in a repair man which i would guess would have set me back $$$. I had a bad switch on my original assembly from
the factory. In any event I cleaned out my pilot assembly just as a precaution. All the best to you SIR!
That's awesome-glad to hear it!
Hi Mike, Really helpful video. Mine lights up and then go out after it starts getting warm? Any suggestions?
A couple of questions: 1. Is the pilot solid blue with no yellow tips? 2. What number does the thermopile test at? 3 Did you try the paperclip when it went out?
Thanks so much great info!
Welcome!
I'm just gonna say this, YOURE A LIFE SAVER! I literally researched this for days b4 finding your video. At the least I'ma share it, like it, suggest it. I did the wall switch and it lit, then the wall switch started acting normal after🤷🏾♂️. I appreciate you, and this is what inspired me to do videos on UA-cam. Ppl like you that actually help, so I'll get back to it soon. Thanks again
Very nice Dawan Thank you!
Great video great explanations! Clear and to the point!
I had a quick question, I use a jumper wire between the 2 terminals, the flame comes right on and works. Only works while I hold the jumper wire in place. When I remove the wire, the flame goes out and the pilot light stays on.
Wonder what to test next.
Thank you
After much testing, appears I had a lose safety switch bracket. I tighten up the safety switch and all is well. Thank you!
@@lucasbrown779 Awesome Lucas glad you figured it out!
Thank you
Welcome Jeff!
This is a reposting: I was troubleshooting every which way on my Napolean GD25 gas fireplace. In a nutshell, this video allowed me to start the fireplace after over 8 years of it being dormant. Thank you! It was the trick using a piece of wire - TH to TPTH - that opened the gas valve and lit the burner, making me incredibly happy. I also made progress by blowing out the pilot orifice (as suggested in this video), replacing the thermopile and thermocouple, and blowing out the burner orifice. I'll never know what the problem was specifically, but all is well that ends well!
Awesome Scott! Thanks for the comment!
Thanks a lot. It solved my problem
Awesome! Glad to help!
Hey Mike, I just watched this video and when I jumped the tp, tpth the stove lit up. I'm just unsure now that I've done that, what the actual part that needs to be replaced is. Thanks in advance for your help
So your problem is isolated to the terminals, wiring, and switch. I would check the switch first, and probably clean the terminals and connections at the tp/tpth
Thanks Mike for this video. I went through your troubleshooting step by step. I scraped/sanded/poked with a sharp tool then vacuumed out the pilot mechanism. I went from 268 to 450+ on the multi-meter. Wife is happy. Thanks!
Big improvement on the numbers!
This video is very thorough and goes through several possible issues. Thank you for the gift of knowledge
You're Welcome-glad it helped you!
Awesome, thank you!
Welcome Jeff!
I feel really stupid. I couldn't get the main burner to light. I tore it apart and cleaned everything a few times, disassembled it a couple times and still couldnt figure out what was wrong. I started to watch your video and you mentioned the "switch" to give it power. The switch on mine is kinda hidden on the wall around the side of the fireplace. I looked, found it in the OFF position, turned it on and viola! The fireplace lit!
LOL Charles! Glad it's working now!
Mike, appreciate your tips on gas fireplaces. I have two 20+ year old Napoleon ones where the pilot light won’t stay lit no matter how long I hold the button in. A technician came out and told me the gas valve needed replacing. (Thermocouple was good) About 1k to do the work. Is this something a mechanical kind of guy can do or should it be left to the professionals?
Certainly a mechanically inclined DIY'er can do this. The valve should be $200-$250 online
Thank you 😅
You're Welcome Kenny!
Cleaning the pilot seems like a good thing to do whenever you have gotten in there. I like that you covered several maintenance tips in addition to fixing your main problem
The pilot knob won't push in anymore in order to get gas flow to ignite pilot. Any recommendations?
Might be looking at a new valve.
Amazing!! I have the problem down to the wiring between the wall switch and the terminal. Any chance you have a video on problem solving this issue? You've been so helpful.
OK Chantel, first disconnect the wiring from the terminals and clean them. You can use fine sandpaper or a scuff pad. The point is to make sure you are getting good contact between the ends of the wires and the terminals. Just to make sure, if you remove the switch and touch the wires together, the burner does not light correct? And when you jump the valve with a paper clip the burner does light?
Thanks for the jumper idea! Even though my multimeter showed a closed circuit, the valve wasn't opening. Once I knew it was a wiring issue, I was able to get it working.
Awesome!
mine ended up being a non drilled flame hole from the factory - everwarm unit. u can see where it was supposed to be drilled but didnt. drilled it out and fixed it. everwarm quality controls needs some help.
LOL glad you got it squared away!
My Mendota fireplace seems to be lighting intermittently.
the pilot light is fine, I've cleaned the thermopile and the numbers look good, I've crossed the terminals as you suggested.
I've tried adjusting the vent, trying with and without the glass cover, but nothing seems to consistently work.
It seems to stay lit as long as I want if it does light, but then I turn it off and hours later it just refuses to light no matter what I do. Any suggestions?
Situations like these are hard to troubleshoot. Do you have some type of safety switch at the perimeter of the glass that is possibly bad? You may be looking at a new valve.
@@MikeKlimek
I don't see any switches like that. I tested the thermopile and when I flip the switch it drops from about 650-700 down to 30s, when I research this I think it's only supposed to drop about half. The thermocouple tests normal and the pilot stays lit all the time so I think that's good. Since the thermopile is so cheap to replace I'm going to try that first. If it doesn't help then I'll probably look into the valve replacement. Thank you
Absolutely fantastic video! Thank you for taking the time to create it!!!
Welcome! Glad it helped you
Just wanted to stop by and say Thank You! Fixed my fireplace today thanks to this video. Learned something new, didn't have to flip the breaker, learned how to jump the connection and successfully replaced a borked light switch. Earned a new subscriber!
Awesome Thank you!
Same symptoms and resolution here. We have plans to convert to a pellet insert and didn't want to spend the cash on a service call on an appliance that has its days numbered.
Thanks for the video! This helped me to find that my wall switch was bad, which I did not expect. Everything else seemed to point to my thermopile, but using a multimeter I found that my switch was intermittently not making contact when turned on.
Awesome Sam! Glad to help!
Hello Mike, could you please help me understand my propane fireplace . I clean the pilot part and it stays on. the wall switch works but when the flame comes up it turns blue and later goes out. Please let me know if you have any suggestions
Great videos. Looks like I have to replace the thermopile. Do you have that video?
I don't yet. It's pretty straightforward though
How do i know what switch i need... will any light switch work?
These are regular household switches, even though the wiring is low voltage
I'm not sure if my situation is quite the same. My pilot light will light easily and stay on. Once the switch is turned on, the fireplace will light but will go out in about 15-30 seconds. I tested the thermopile with the volt meter. When the switch is off, it reads approx 425mv. Once I turn the flame on, it drops to about 250mv, but then it just keeps dropping and dropping until the flame/pilot shuts off (below 110mv). Would this be a faulty thermopile? Fireplace was recently cleaned within the last 2 months and pilot is strong.
Mine to does the same switch it on then 5 minutes later it goes out
Hi, I have a similar gas valve. The pilot is blue stays on no problem. But when I call for the main burner to come on it won't. The thermopile voltage is around 580mv open circuit and about 360mv closed circuit. Even with the paper clip it won't turn on. Is it a bad gas valve? Thanks
Have you figured this out yet? We have the same issue
So still wanting to learn what if the main burner doesn’t it stay lit? Our pilot stays on, main burner lights immediately but it shuts off after 2-3 minutes. Maybe same issue as in video? Thermopile not getting enough heat? Bad thermopile?
Certainly possible. Have you tested with a multimeter and if so what was the reading? Is your pilot strong and all blue?
Hey Mike
Thanks for the info. My problem was same as yours. I got a reading on thermal at 323, vacuumed pilot and went to 474 all works well now.
Thanks. Saved me time trouble and money just by paperclipping connections. Simple as a loose connection
Awesome Jim Glad it helped!
Sweet!@@mikehawkins6508
My pilot stays lit, the main burners will come on…but when the thermostat shuts it off it turns off the pilot light too. It’s like everything goes off after a few minutes. I can go and turn it right back on with no problems but it will just keep doing it. Funny thing…when I shut it off manually, pilot will stay on like it should. 🤷♂️
What is your pilot like? Bright blue or yellow tips on the ends?
@@MikeKlimek Mostly true and blue but intermittently will have orange streaks. I tried vacuuming it out today and it seemed to work longer without turning off but the problem is the pilot is not vertical like yours it’s horizontal so imma have to rig some kind of attachment hose to get any closer.
There isn’t some kind of tilt safety mechanism like on an electric stand up heater is there? I ask bc there are some rocks wedged under it making it wobble sometimes. I thought about disconnecting it from the wall and removing all the volcanic rock so I could re-seat it nice and level…but I don’t even know if that would help?
Thanks so much for reaching out and trying to help, this is so frustrating. I’ve already had one person come and “fix” it. 😒
@@mwm48 That sounds very strange. It should not move and I certainly wouldn't try to rig something. I would try to move out the rock as you said and clean up the area. The pilot should not move and you shouldn't have to rig something to make it fit. It sounds like something is loose at the pilot. Be safe on this and follow your common sense!
Super helpful! Thanks, Mike. Using the paperclip, I found my problem was the wiring from my fireplace to the switch. This was especially helpful for me as I needed the fireplace heat while we are waiting for our boiler to get replaced. Thanks again!
Way to go Mike! Stay warm!
Mike, I did everything, the valve is fine with the jumper.. however, the switch still isn't lighting the fireplace. when I connect the wires together they still do not work? Please advise?
You're problem will be in the loop that goes from the screw terminals to the wiring, to the switch and back. Somewhere in there lies your problem. I would probably start with cleaning the terminals and making sure the wiring is getting good contact, then move to down the line to the wiring and switch.
Thank you so much, Mike! My fireplace had just stopped lighting a few days ago (pilot still lit but with some orange tips). Found your video and was completely able to diagnose and fix the issue. I had to remove the pilot hood to really get a good cleaning (vacuum helped but not enough by itself). But doing so allowed me to clean thoroughly, restore the bright blue flame on the pilot and it is now heating the thermocouple enough to light the burner. Problem solved without having to call a repair company. The troubleshooting tests you covered were especially instructive and following them made me persevere to the best possible conclusion. Again... many thanks for taking the time. Cheers!
You're welcome Mike, glad it helped you!
Mike you fixed my fireplace problem! It has been broken for 2 years. Thank you.
LOL You're welcome Nick!
Hey, Mike when multimetering the thermopile, wall switch is off right? With no gas valve on to cause burner to ignite correct.
Yes Gerald you are correct on both counts
Well thank you Sir, I am looking forward to install one gas operated Fireplace.
I would like to know if possible all about installing one at my place. I am from Mauritius.Thanks
That way the fire goes out a few seconds after the cooling fan shuts down on millivolt systems including pilot. So re-ignition will be required when the power comes back.
Hey Mike, thanks for the video. When I did the paper clip test, I hear the ‘click’ and the pilot goes out. The multimeter is reading around 180-190. Does this mean I need to change the thermopile?
That is a very low reading. I would try to clean it first with a rough scuff pad. Get it nice and shiny and see if you get a different reading
Thanks for the reply! Did that and the side exposed to the pilot flame is shiny…still only a moderate improvement to like ~200
@@gregorykantor5629 Bummer! It's probably time to replace the thermopile then
Hey thanks for doing this it’s-10 degrees in Chicago & fireplace quit - was bad switch . You saved the day need more kind souls like yourself sharing. All the best!
Glad it helped you Edward!
Fantastic video almost covered it ball thank you
Hey Mike, thanks for the video. Nothing when jumping the switch or the paperclip trick. I'm not getting any reading at all on my multimeter. Do you think the thermoalpile is bad? The pilot stays lit. Thoughts? Thanks!
If the pilot stays lit, the thermocouple is doing something...You're not getting any reading?
@@MikeKlimekHi Mike, yes the pilot stays lit but no reading on the multimeter.
Touching switch wires no work. Paper clip no light my burner. Thermopile is 660. What can I do, Mike?
That was certainly helpful.. paper clip for it started!!! Will get the switch fixed ASAP !!! Thank you 🙏🙏🙏
Sweet! Glad it helped you!
Sir, my fireplace stopped working couple years ago and every winter my wife would tell me to fix it. I tried everything for the past two winters but in vain. Well today, my wife told me to fix it or she is going to call someone to fix it. I looked up troubleshooting on UA-cam and came across your video. Tried the paper clip method and it turned on. Opened the wall switch and unplugged and replugged the wires and boom, problem solved. Thanks so much for the video.
Awesome-glad to hear it!
I don’t have a switch on the wall, we have some stupid box and remote control that I’ve never had (this is my folks fireplace). Is there a way I can totally disconnect that crap so I can simply light my pilot light, hold in a few then turn to on with my flames lighting??
I don't know that I would. Stupid question, but did you check the batteries in the remote and look at terminal connections?
@@MikeKlimek Mike!!! I DID IT!! I was losing my patience with her remote and the little box. So I slept on it, went back watching all the videos once again, and finally got it working when I left it on pilot instead of turning up the gas as I’m use to when no remote is involved. Anyways, thank you. I kept at it, checked all the components until I made it work.
@@EmmaDee Way to go Amy!!!
how do i clean my chemny vent, i see on the outside of the vent is very dark like smoked stain.
Thank. you -- You SHOULD ADD a button up top (where the clip/download/share buttons are) that allow viewers to "tip" you. I recently was able to fix a tankless hot water issue and the guy had such a button -- looks like heart with a $ sign inside. I tossed him $30 cuz he saved me an expensive plumber visit. Your video allowed me to buy a $15 switch (side of unit toggle) and again, saved me a much larger bill. Love to donate if you get it set up. Thanks again.
You're welcome! Thanks for the info