How to Light a Gas Fireplace Using a Control Panel

Your step-by-step guide to safe and effective ignition

Looking to ignite your gas fireplace with confidence? This guide walks you through the process step by step — from understanding your control panel to turning the flame on safely. Whether you’re using your fireplace for the first time this season or after a remodel, follow these expert-recommended instructions.

✅ Step 1: Read the Fireplace User Manual Carefully

Before doing anything, locate and review your fireplace’s instruction manual. Each unit may have specific ignition steps or safety precautions. If you can’t find your printed manual, download it directly from the manufacturer’s website.

Reading gas fireplace manual

✅ Step 2: Open the Fireplace’s Control Panel

The control panel is typically hidden behind the fireplace’s front screen. Gently remove or open this screen to access the ignition controls.

Accessing fireplace control panel

✅ Step 3: Turn the Control Knob to “OFF” and Wait 5 Minutes

Ensure the control knob is turned to the OFF position. Wait at least 5 minutes to let any residual gas dissipate.

If you smell a strong gas odor, leave immediately and contact your gas company or fire department.

Turning gas knob off

✅ Step 4: Open the Gas Shutoff Valve

If your fireplace has a shutoff valve, turn it so that it’s parallel with the gas line. This allows gas to flow to the control panel.

Turning gas shutoff valve

✅ Step 5: Set the Control Knob to “PILOT”

Turn the control knob to the PILOT position — but do not press it yet. This prepares the valve for pilot light ignition.

Pilot position on gas fireplace

✅ Step 6: Press the Knob and Ignite the Pilot Light

With the knob on “PILOT”, press it down and simultaneously press the ignition button (usually a red button near the knob). Continue pressing until the pilot flame lights up.

If the flame doesn’t ignite after a few tries, restart the process. If it still doesn’t work, call a technician.

Igniting gas fireplace

✅ Step 7: Hold the Knob Down for 30 Seconds

Continue holding the control knob for at least 30 seconds after ignition. This gives the thermocouple time to register the flame and keep the gas flowing safely.

Holding gas control knob

✅ Step 8: Turn the Knob to “ON”

Once the flame is stable, turn the knob from PILOT to ON. This activates the full functionality of your gas fireplace, which can now be controlled via remote or wall switch.

Don’t forget to reattach the front screen if you removed it.

Turning on gas fireplace

Pro Tips for Fireplace Safety

  • Always ventilate the area before lighting.
  • Wait 5 minutes after turning the knob to OFF.
  • Contact a professional if the pilot light doesn’t stay lit.

Need Help or Want to Upgrade Your Fireplace?

Visit our showroom in Monroe, NC or contact us for a custom stone fireplace renovation. We offer granite, marble, and quartzite finishes tailored to your space.