How to Turn on a Gas Fireplace Safely and Effectively

Follow these steps for gas fireplaces that use a control panel or a gas valve fireplace key.

Gas fireplaces are a great asset to have in your home. Whether it's the dead of winter or a breezy fall night, a fireplace offers warmth and brings a cozy ambiance to a space. Plus, gas fireplaces tend to be a bit safer and easier to use than their wood-burning counterparts. However, if you've never used one before, you might have to do a bit of studying before you can cozy up by the fire. Start by figuring out which type of gas fireplace you have and whether it uses a control panel, a key, a remote, or a switch to turn on. Read the steps below to learn how to turn on a gas fireplace safely and effectively.

Related: 13 Modern Fireplace Ideas to Create the Upgraded Cozy Space of Your Dreams

How to Turn on a Gas Fireplace With a Control Panel

If your gas fireplace has a control panel, it can take a bit of work to get the fire started—but once you get used to the process, it'll be smooth sailing. Follow the steps below, and read your owner's manual, if you have it, to turn on your fireplace.

• Start by opening the access panel. The control panel is typically located around the base of the fireplace behind a decorative fireplace screen, so you'll need to remove the access panel to get to the controls. You should be able to just pop it off and set it to the side.

• Find the control knob. The knob will typically be marked with the following settings: "Off," "Pilot," and "On." If you find the knob in the on position, turn it off and wait five minutes to allow lingering gas to clear out.

• Turn the control knob to the pilot position, holding it down to start the flow of gas.

• Ignite the flame. Find the ignition switch on the control panel and click it on while still holding down the control knob. Continue clicking the ignition once every second until the pilot light is on. (This may take several attempts, especially if the fireplace hasn't been used in a while.)

• Once the pilot light is on, hold the control knob down for 15 to 30 seconds to make sure the flame stays lit.

• Release the control knob. If the flame goes out, you'll have to repeat the previous steps to try again. If you can't get the flame to stay lit, you may need to call a technician for help.

• Turn the control knob to the on position. Depending on your fireplace model, you may have a series of numbers by the knob, or settings like "low" and "high." You can use these to adjust the height of your flame.

• Replace the access panel over the control knob.

Warning

Before turning on the fireplace, make sure the emergency gas valve is open. There should be a knob or switch on your unit to do this—turn it so it's parallel to your gas line.

How to Turn on a Gas Fireplace With a Gas Valve Fireplace Key

If your fireplace uses a fireplace key, then there will be a slot in place of a knob to control the flow of gas. Many of the steps for turning on the fireplace will be similar to those with a control knob, except you will need to manually light the fire. Here's how to do it:

• Start by removing the fireplace cover to access the fire chamber. This is typically a glass panel that you can pop off and set aside.

• Find the gas valve. This will look like a small, decorative slot, typically located near the bottom of your fireplace, on the side, or on the floor.

• Insert the key into the valve, but don't turn it until you're ready to light the fire. Turning the key starts the flow of gas and can pose a risk if too much gas is released.

• Hold a long lighter next to the burner. Turn on the lighter and then turn the key in the gas valve counterclockwise to the on position. This should immediately light the burner.

• Once the fire is lit, replace the fireplace cover.

• Rotate the key in the valve to adjust the height of the flame as desired.

Tip

If you can't reach the gas valve and the burner at the same time, you'll need to have someone lend you a hand. In this case, have one person hold the lighter, while the other person turns the key in the valve.

How to Turn on a Gas Fireplace With a Remote or Switch

If your gas fireplace uses a remote or wall switch to turn on, then you're in luck, because these are the easiest units to operate. To light the fire, simply flip the switch or press the "on" button on your remote and you should be good to go. Still, be sure to reference your owner's manual and call in for professional help if needed.

Gas Fireplace Safety Tips

While gas fireplaces are considered safer than their wood-burning counterparts, that doesn't mean you should forego all safety measures. Without proper maintenance and ventilation, gas fireplaces pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, so it's important to be cautious and mindful anytime you use a gas fireplace. Follow the safety tips below:

• Don't crowd the fireplace. Never place furniture, decor, or any other items in front of the fireplace. Leave at least three feet of room between the fireplace and any flammable objects.

• Get your fireplace professionally inspected every year to be sure it's running as it should and doesn't pose a safety hazard.

• Keep a hard-wried carbon monoxide detector nearby to warn you of any potential leaks.

• Never leave your fireplace unattended or running overnight.

• Use safety screens. If your gas fireplace is less than 9 years old, it should have come with a safety screenIf your fireplace doesn't have one, be sure to install a safety screen to reduce the risk of burns from direct contact with the glass front.

Related: The 6 Best Electric Fireplaces of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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