It’s no surprise that gas fireplaces are more popular than wood fireplaces since they’re easier to clean and don’t need ashing as much. Despite having numerous safety measures built-in to avoid tragedies, you should always be cautious when handling flammable materials.
Before and after using the fire pit, it’s a good idea to inspect the condition of your fireplace. You should take steps to secure yourself, your belongings, or your health.
How to light a gas fireplace with wall key
Knobs and ignition valves are prevalent on gas fireplaces, making them simple to operate. There are various types to choose from, with wall keys being used as safe fireplace starter mechanisms in the more traditional versions.
Using a wall key to light a gas fireplace has several benefits. The safety of others in your home, particularly children, is one of the most significant factors to consider.
Young children may inadvertently turn on a gas knob if left alone in front of a fireplace keyhole, which is usually inserted deep inside the wall cavity.
Using a wall key, here’s how to light a gas fireplace:
1. Locate the keyhole on the fire pit
A keyhole is usually positioned at the base (typically on the left/right hand side of the wall cavity) in most fire pits. Along the wall of your fireplace, try searching for a tiny, distinct entry with a metallic interior case. You might also test to see if the metallic key is compatible by fitting it.
2. Insert the metal key into the keyhole
While longer varieties for outdoor usage are available, most keys are around 3 to 6 inches long. A gas pit key has a well-defined shaft and a rounded edge on the opposite side, with a flattened handle for better grip. Depending on the gas control valve in use, some varieties might have a square tip.
3. Turn the key in a counterclockwise direction
Before firmly turning the key in the opposite direction, verify that it fits securely. To verify if the key is suitable for your fire pit, you may begin by bending it slightly at a angle of roughly 15 to 30 degrees.
4. Ignite the gas using a butane lighter
For lighting a gas fireplace, butane lighters are a safe option. Close contact with flames is prevented by the wand’s long stick, which prevents burns and other hand injuries.
Before placing the exposed end near the base of your gas valve, you must first use the lighter correctly. Make sure you squeeze the trigger and position it as close to the gas source as possible. Some lighter models include additional safeguards for children (check with the manufacturer if you have trouble using the butane lighter).
5. Adjust the flame to the desired level
You may simply adjust the flame intensity to your liking by using the key. The flame size is enlarged in an anticlockwise rotation, whereas the flame size and brightness are reduced in a clockwise rotation.
How to turn off a gas fireplace with a wall key
If you’re utilizing a wall key, the situation may not be so simple when using one of those gas fire pits with a knob inside its control panel that makes it simple to shut off the flame when not in use.
The safety of handling combustible gases is a significant challenge. To prevent any accidents, make sure you are familiar with how to turn off a gas fireplace with a wall key.
With a wall key, here’s how to turn off a gas fireplace correctly:
1. Identify the location of your shut-off valve
Inside your wall, locate the location of your shut-off valve. A keyhole allows you to regulate the flame intensity and size, and the shut-off valve is generally positioned near the base of your fireplace.
2. Insert the wall key inside the keyhole
When turning off a gas flame, make sure to use the correct key. A bad key size may fail to operate properly, resulting in leakage and other hazards to your home.
3. Carefully turn the key in a clockwise direction
Your next step should be to slowly and steadily rotate the handle in a clockwise direction while at the same time checking the corresponding effect on the flame after you are certain that the wall key fits correctly.
4. Firmly close the gas valve and check for potential leaks
To prevent leaks and interference from curious little children, tightly secure the valve. Quickly check the fireplace areas for leaks or other damage by storing your key in a safe place and doing a quick inspection.
5. Ventilate the area
Before starting your project, you can also open windows and other apertures.
Can you light a gas fireplace without a key?
Turning on a gas fireplace with the proper key is always recommended. Keys can wear out, get damaged, lose their grip, or break at any time. You may not have one on hand or it might be broken.
An emergency electric starter is standard on contemporary fireplaces. When you don’t have a wall key, the switch can come in handy. In addition, it gives you a safe way to turn on your gas switch without using the key.
Alternative ways to turn on the gas fire pit
Your fireplace key might get misplaced or lost on accident. Before trying other means, it’s always a good idea to seek for a replacement. You may, however, still heat your house in an emergency by utilizing certain technical know-how.
Even without a key, some fire pit models feature knobs and ignition buttons that make starting a fire simple. Before attempting other more risky procedures, you may want to read the user manual for further information. You may notice a tiny protrusion or button indicating the latter’s position if you inspect the edges of your fire pit’s base.
The ability to turn on your fireplace without the use of a key is limited since it is not available on earlier versions. You may still turn on the pilot button if your gas fireplace does not have a wall key, but it will be more complicated and necessitate extra precaution.
Before you search for the fire pit’s control panel, turn off the gas first. Identify the ignitor switch and circuit breakers (if any) by following the user manual. Before gradually turning on the stitch inside the specified time (we recommend you check the user manual), you may want to remove the glass shield and other materials that may obstruct your access to the gas zone.
Before striking a match and placing it close to the outlet, always ensure the gas is turned all the way down. Lastly, handle the glass shield and control panel with care. Don’t even think about lighting a smoldering fireplace. Before attempting to ignite a naked flame if you suspect your fireplace has any damage, contact your gas provider or another expert.
Attempting to fix it yourself is also a poor idea. Several incidents of accidents have been linked to a homeowner’s decision to fix a gas leak problem without having the required expertise on the problem. Before removing the control panel, it’s a good idea to check with the building’s code and regulations.
Listen for a faint hissing sound or the scent of gas in the air to verify if your fireplace has been damaged. Make sure the gas valve is turned off and open all windows right away, regardless of the situation.
Also read:
- How to Cover a Fireplace Hole: The Safe Way
- How to Clean Inside of Fireplace Brick: A Comprehensive Guide
- 30 Cheap and Inspirative Fire Pit Ideas
- How to Start a Fire in a Fire Pit: The Safest Ways and Ideas