Heat N Glo fireplaces start malfunctioning over time just like any other appliances in our home. For example, the Heat N Glo fireplace turns off by itself, the ignitor won’t light, the pilot won’t stay lit, the pilot light goes out, the flame color changes frequently, the fireplace not turning on, a faulty valve, the fan and remote not working are the common issues you will encounter.
Fortunately, we have compiled this guide on Heat N Glo Fireplace Troubleshooting to solve those fireplace problems. So, keep reading between the lines.
Table of Contents
- Heat N Glo Fireplace Troubleshooting [11 Easy Solutions]
- 1. Spark Igniter Won’t Light The Pilot
- 2. The Pilot Won’t Stay Lit
- 3. Frequent Pilot Outage Problem
- 4. Pilot & Main Burner Goes Out
- 5. Glass Soots
- 6. Flame Burns Blue & Lifts Off The Burner
- 7. Pilot Stays Lit Though The Fireplace Is Off
- 8. Flame Color Changes Frequently
- 3 More Issues of Your Heat N Glo Fireplace
- 1. Heat N Glo Fan Not Working
- 2. Heat N Glo Fireplace Won’t Turn On
- 3. Heat N Glo Remote Control Not Working
- Heat N Glo Gas Fireplace Maintenance: How To Maintain
- Conclusion
Heat N Glo Fireplace Troubleshooting [11 Easy Solutions]
In this chapter, we will discuss common fireplace issues and provide their solutions.
1. Spark Igniter Won’t Light The Pilot
You continuously press the red piezo button but the spark igniter fails to light the pilot! It will happen for several reasons. A defective igniter is the main culprit behind the pilot issue.
A misaligned electrode or faulty pilot can also be another caveat. Therefore, low gas pressure or no LP in the tank is also responsible for not lighting the pilot.
Solution:
Firstly, inspect the electrode wire for visual damage. If the wire connection is well with the electrode and pilot and you can see no spark, we bet the igniter gets faulty. In this case, you should replace the igniter with a new one.
Secondly, check the pilot and see whether the pilot gets defective or if there is no proper gap between the electrode and the pilot. You can easily inspect whether the pilot is faulty or not.
Just use your lighter and try to light the pilot. If the pilot lights, turn it off and trigger the red piezo button.
If it lights again, we bet an improper gas/air mixture causes the bad lighting. If the pilot will not light, there is no proper gap between the electrode and the pilot.
And the proper gap should be 1/8 inch. If the gap is perfect, it’s a problem with the pilot. Just replace the pilot to solve the issue.
And last, ensure the gas valve is open if the gas pressure is low. On the other hand, fill the fuel tank with LP if there is no LP in the tank.
2. The Pilot Won’t Stay Lit
After following the fireplace lighting instructions properly, you fail to light the pilot, or the pilot will not stay lit.
The pilot light will never light if the thermopile gets dirty or damaged. Therefore, a defective valve prevents the pilot from lighting.
Solution:
Make sure the thermocouple is clean. Clean on and around the thermocouple with a soft cloth if it gets dirty by spider webs or dirt. Also, check the thermocouple connection at the gas valve.
If the connection is fully inserted and tight, understand the thermocouple connection is secure.
Now, disconnect the thermocouple from the valve and measure the volt. Regarding this, place the one millivolt meter lead on the tip of the thermocouple and keep the other lead wire on the copper.
Then, turn on the unit. If the readout is below 15mV, replace the thermocouple as it gets defective.
On the other hand, if you get the readout above 15mV, we are sure the gas valve gets faulty, and you need to change it.
3. Frequent Pilot Outage Problem
If you set the flame too high or low, you will encounter the pilot outage issue. On the other hand, dirt and dust accumulation on and around the pilot can also cause this pilot issue.
Solution:
Check the pilot area for dirt accumulation. If there is debris & dust around the pilot, tidy up the pilot with a soft microfiber cloth.
You can also use an air compressor to blow away the dirt & spider webs. Next, ensure you follow the lighting instructions properly and adjust your fireplace flame.
4. Pilot & Main Burner Goes Out
When you operate the fireplace, the pilot and main burner will go out for insufficient fuel in the tank. Therefore, the following reasons are responsible if the pilot and the main burner extinguish.
- A defective thermopile
- Improper vent cap installation
- Glass gets too loose, and the airtight packet leaks in a corner after usage
- Improper horizontal cap installation
Solution:
Check the LP tank for fuel. If it is empty, refill the tank with propane. Then, follow these troubleshooting steps:
- Replace the thermopile with a new one
- Install the vent cap properly and remove dirt and debris from it
- Tighten the corner
- Ensure you slope down the horizontal vent cap about 1/4 inches
5. Glass Soots
The glass or screen of your Heat N Glo fireplace will get covered by soots or debris for several reasons. If you set the flame too high, the flame will impinge the glass and cause soot buildup over time.
Turns out, improper venturi setting or debris around it is also responsible for the soots on the glass.
Solution:
First off, adjust the log set properly so that the flame doesn’t hit the glass excessively. Secondly, ensure you adjust the air shutter at the base of the burner.
Finally, remove any blockage from the venturi. You can also use a damp cloth to wash the glass with soapy water.
6. Flame Burns Blue & Lifts Off The Burner
It happens if enough oxygen is not supplied to the burner. Therefore, improper vent cap installation or loose glass on the unit is also responsible for this fireplace issue.
Solution:
Install the vent cap properly to ensure sufficient oxygen flow to the burner. Also, check the joints of the vent system are tight. Lastly, ensure you tighten the glass, especially the top glass, properly on the unit.
7. Pilot Stays Lit Though The Fireplace Is Off
You turn the on/off switch to the off position, but the pilot stays lit. This problem will occur if:
- There is a loose connection on the green wire.
- The valve gets defective
- Defective module
Solution:
Start with checking the green wire connections to the green terminal on the valve. If the connection gets loosened, tighten it up. If the valve gets faulty, replace it.
To learn whether the valve gets defective or not, pull out the orange wire on the valve. If the pilot stays lit, it’s time to replace the valve.
Finally, check all connections and continuity. If you don’t find any fault in the wire, change the module.
8. Flame Color Changes Frequently
Your fireplace flame color and height may change a little bit during start-up because of a little lack of air, oxygen, or fuel. It’s normal.
But if this happens frequently and the flame changes yellow, orange, or red, your fireplace needs to be checked.
Remember, the problem is serious especially, in the case of red flame. It may indicate that your fireplace is producing carbon monoxide which could be harmful.
However, the common reasons for your fireplace flame color changes are the following:
- The gas that you are using, doesn’t burn off completely
- Lack of sufficient airflow due to soot, other build-up, or a clog in the wear out
- Irregular gas flowing
Solution:
- First, try cleaning your fireplace and ensure there is enough airflow
- Fix the irregular gas flow. Here, it would be wise to take help from a professional
3 More Issues of Your Heat N Glo Fireplace
Over time, you may also encounter the following issues with your Heat N Glo Fireplace.
1. Heat N Glo Fan Not Working
The wires of your Hean N Glo fireplace are connected to a fan sensor switch. This switch will turn on the fan if your fireplace heats up to a certain temperature.
It will also turn the fan off when you turn off the unit. The goal of the fan is not to circulate cool air into your room. If the wire connections at the fan sensor switch get defective, the fan will not work.
To solve this issue, try to connect the 2 wires that are attached to the temp switch. If the blower comes on, you should replace the switch with a new one. Moreover, you can read our comprehensive guide on how to fix a faulty fan of the Heat N Glo fireplace.
2. Heat N Glo Fireplace Won’t Turn On
Your Heat N Glo fireplace will not turn on if the pilot gets defective or dirt builds up around it.
A faulty thermopile, defective wire connections, and a bad valve are also responsible for not turning on the fireplace. If you are not mechanically inclined, call customer service for help.
3. Heat N Glo Remote Control Not Working
The remote control will not work if you install the battery incorrectly. Also, the remote control doesn’t function if the batteries go out.
Therefore, the misalignment of the slide switch on the receiver is not in the correct position.
To solve those remote control issues, ensure you install the batteries correctly. Change the batteries if they get damaged.
Lastly, position the slide switch on the receiver correctly. Plus, read our Heat N Glo fireplace remote control troubleshooting guide.
Heat N Glo Gas Fireplace Maintenance: How To Maintain
Follow the below maintenance tips to operate your gas fireplace for years to come.
- Clean the glass door of your fireplace after operating the fireplace for 3-4 hours. You can use household glass cleaner to get rid of film deposits from the glass door.
- Check the flame pattern of the fireplace periodically. Ensure the flames are steady- not lifting or floating.
- Inspect the external vent cap regularly and ensure there is no debris to interfere with the flow of air. You can hire a professional or call Heat N Glo customer service to do this task for you.
- Replace the old ember material annually to let the fireplace function properly.
- Ensure you vacuum or brush away the control compartment, logs, and burner areas of your fireplace.
Conclusion
We recommend you maintain your Heat N Glo fireplace if you want to use it season after season. Follow the maintenance tips we mentioned above to avoid potential fireplace issues like the pilot light going out or more.
If you encounter any fireplace problems, follow the troubleshooting steps we described throughout this guide.
Otherwise, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional if you fail to solve the fireplace issue. Let us know if you have any queries. We’ll come back with a solution ASAP.
changed pilot assembly, had vent checked, new valve on tank, when it is cold i have to restart about 5 times for it to stay lite. could this be valve.
Hi John
Your query is not clear. Can you make it sensed and clarify so that We can provide you with the perfect solution?
Thanks
Heat n glo about 15 years old, only problem is remote. I changed batteries in remote and 9v in unit. (Pilot light is on) Go from off to auto, raise temp I hear the click connection but doesn’t turn on flame. Manually can be turned off & on under unit but remote only hear the click.
Hi Barry
The remote control may not be working for various reasons. As you have changed the batteries, check for other issues and fix them following our solution guide on heat N Glo Remote Control Not Working.
Hope you will get the solution.
Wish you all the best.
I have a cold air draft coming in from my heat n glo cosmo 42 fireplace, did I bump something when cleaning it that caused this? Where is it? It’s freezing in our house.
Hi Deanne
Generally, this type of problem happens when a flue or air intake in the firebox. Check the firebox and find out fuel and close the flue so that air doesn’t come in. Plus, inspect the clamp and remove it.
Besides, to minimize the cold air draft you can install glass doors on the front of your fireplace opening.
Thanks.
I have a model SL32. When I press the on/off button on the remote the red light on the inside unit goes on and off but when left in the on position (red indicator light is on), the unit will not light up. The flames will light up using the manual dial but not using the remote. Can you help?
Hi Paul
Generally, the remote control will not work if you install the battery incorrectly. Also, the remote control doesn’t function if the batteries go out. Therefore, the misalignment of the slide switch on the receiver is not in the correct position.
To solve those remote control issues, ensure you install the batteries correctly. Change the batteries if they get damaged. Lastly, position the slide switch on the receiver correctly. Plus, read our Heat N Glo fireplace remote control troubleshooting guide to get the further instructions in detail.
Thanks.
pilot is lit but unit will not turn on either manually or with remote, Any suggestions?
Hi Kevin
The unit might be won’t turn on due to the problem with the spark ignitor. Clean all the debris between the thermocouple and ignitor. Plus, blow compressed air into the pilot area and wait a couple of minutes. Then try again. Hope you can fix your problem.
Otherwise, consult with a technician.
Thanks.
Did all the above that applies. Replaced the pilot assembly (IPI). Pilot lights, fire comes on for a few minutes then goes out, Pilot stays on, flames will not relight.
Hi Harold
When the pilot light is on but your gas fireplace won’t stay lit, it can be due to the faulty thermocouple in the ignition system. The thermocouple does not allow the gas valve to open if the pilot light isn’t lit. So, check the thermocouple and fix or replace it if it’s needed. Hope you will get the solution.
Thanks.
Hi, an slr-d model will ignite and run then flame will fail after an hours, it has intermittent pilot. Cleaned flame rod etc, intermittent flame failure
Hi Wes
The pilot light won’t stay lit if the thermopile gets dirty or damaged. Also, a defective valve prevents the pilot from lighting. SO, to fix the issue, clean the thermopile first. Plus, check the thermocouple connection at the gas valve and make the connection is tightened and okay.
Hopefully, you will get a solution.
Thanks
Height and color of flame vary intermittently, almost going out on right end then filling box with flames. No problem with other uses of propane cookstove or generator. Logs turn on and off with remote without a problem.
Hi Linda
The common reasons for your fireplace flame color changes are the followings:
1. The gas that you are using, doesn’t burn off completely
2. Lack of sufficient airflow due to soot, another build-up, or a clog in the wear out
3. Irregular gas flowing
Solution:
1. First, try cleaning your fireplace and ensure there is enough airflow.
2. Fix the irregular gas flow. Here, it would be wise to take help from a professional.
Plus, you can also read our guide on how to adjust your Heat N Glow fireplace flame. It will also help you to fix your flame issue.
Thanks
Hi William – My SL-7X-IFT wont light. 1st symptom was circuit breaker was tripped. I reset it and still wont light. Pilot does light and remains on. I have an error on remote that says , “Check RC400 User Guide Communication Error”. I switched the 2326-130 module to the “ON” position and it wont turn on (pilot is on). I pushed in the “Pair” button on he 2326-130 module, lights came on, the fireplace lit for 1 or 2 seconds, but then quit. I am guessing one of the modules (2326-120, 2326-130, or 2326-150) is bad, but which one?? Any ideas? TR
Hi TR
Your Heat N Glo fireplace will not turn on if the pilot gets defective or dirt builds up around it. A faulty thermopile, defective wire connections, and a bad valve are also responsible for not turning on the fireplace.
Well, as your pilot light is on but the fireplace won’t light, follow the guide on pilot stays lit though the fireplace is off section from Heat N Glo Fireplace Troubleshooting.
If you are not comfortable solving the issue, call customer service for help.
Thanks.
Hi William – My SL-7X-IFT wont light. 1st symptom was circuit breaker was tripped. I reset it and still wont light. Pilot does light and remains on. I have an error on remote that says , “Check RC400 User Guide Communication Error”. I switched the 2326-130 module to the “ON” position and it wont turn on (pilot is on). I pushed in the “Pair” button on he 2326-130 module, lights came on, the fireplace lit for 1 or 2 seconds, but then quit. I am guessing one of the modules (2326-120, 2326-130, or 2326-150) is bad, but which one?? Any ideas? Thanks, TR
Hi TR
The solution to your issue is in the previous comment answer.
Thanks.
Hi William – I have a Heat-N-Glo peninsula direct vent natural gas fireplace and am having running issues with it. I can light the pilot and it will stay lit without and issue, but when I switch it to on position it will partially light up, just enough to male the imitation embers glow, but that’s it. No actual flame at all. I originally thought it was the regulator, so I replaced it, but that didn’t change anything. So I then replaced the entire gas valve with a Robertshaw model 710-511 and again, same issue. I confirmed that I have plenty of gas pressure and volume going to the unit, but I’m stumped and don’t want to throw any more parts at it. Is there anything I could be missing?
Hi Michael
Do you clean the pilot assembly? If not, clean it thoroughly and then check for any change.
If it also doesn’t work, contact with Heat N Glo support team.
Wish you all the best.
Hello,
My pilot went out how do I get it back on?
Model#SL-75OTR-IPI-E
Serial#0023875414
Thank You
Bev
Hi Beverly
To solve your issue, follow our instructions on the pilot won’t stay lit section from Heat N Glo Fireplace Troubleshooting guide.
Hope you will get the solution.
Thanks.
Hi, my fireplace won’t turn off with the remote. I changed the batteries and the remote is working for other functions (flame height, fan, turning on) but it won’t work when trying to turn the fireplace off. I am only able to turn it off manually.
Hi Jg
As your remote batteries are fresh, make sure that the on-off switch is in the on position when you use the remote control to turn off or on your unit.
Plus, to get more information about the issue, you can read our solution guide on Heat N Glo Remote Control Not Working.
Hope you will get the solution.
Thanks
I’m having the same problem. Won’t turn off with the remote. Have tried replacing both the remote and module, no luck. Did you find a solution? Thanks!
Hi. Our heat and Glo fireplace looks like it is working – it turns on and looks perfect, fan comes on etc. BUT it is not putting out much heat! Normally on full flame and fan we cannot stand directly in front of it for long. Tonight I have sat for an hour directly in front of it and I am not yet cooking as I should be.
Any suggestions? I recall having this problem when it was installed as well.
Hi Teresa
Your gas fireplace may not put out much heat due to one or more following reasons:
1. The BTU rating of your gas fireplace is insufficient for heating your home.
2. Most of the heat may go out of the flue.
3. You may have a decorative gas fireplace or a fireplace that’s not perfect for your situation.
4. Air circulation is not good.
5. The shape of your home makes it challenging for the fireplace to distribute heat evenly throughout your home.
6. You may set the thermostat too low.
7. The flame won’t stay lit.
First, try to find out the main reasons behind the issue & then fix it following our solution guide on how to get more heat from gas fireplace section in the article.
Hopefully, you will get the solution.
Wish you all the best.
I have a Heat N Glo Model SL-550TRSLP-C.
It will not operate from the thermostat only with the on/off switch. I replaced the thermocouple & thermostat……I also have no voltage to my thermostat……Any ideas?
Thanks in advance, Bruce
Hi Bruce
First, carefully check all the wire connections & the outlet where you plug the unit & ensure they are perfectly ok. If all the connections are ok & you are facing the issue, then it would be wise to contact the Heat N Glo customer support center.
Wish you best of luck.
Hi Bruce,
Our Heat-n-Glow SL-7 takes about 6 seconds before the flame comes on after pressing ON on the remote. If we turn it off and try again it only takes 3 seconds for the flame to come on. Is there a reason there is such a delay?
Thanks
Hi Dave
Generally, delayed ignition occurs due to a poor pilot flame. A dirty pilot can’t function well & produce a poor flame.
So, first, check the pilot assembly & clean it if you get it dirty. If cleaning doesn’t work, inspect the pilot light & replace it when you find it defective.
Hope, you will get the solution.
Best of luck!
I have a heat n glow SL-750TR and I have no knob to adjust the flame height just a gold colored knob where the flame adjustment knob would be and this item will not move. The house was built in 1999 if that helps. When I look up the valve assembly by the part number shown in the manual it shows a high low knob where my gold colored item is. Did heat-n-glo just not make the flame adjustable back in 1999
Hi Wayne
It would be wise to contact the Heat N Glo fireplace customer support center in this case.
Best of luck!
HI,
I have an SL-750TR-IPI-D. I had a problem with the unit not turning on. As long as the wall switch was in the on position, gas would flow to the pilot and it would light, but nothing further. I changed out the pilot assembly, as well as the GM-6KA module. The unit lit and ran well for about 3 hours. At that point, I heard what sounded like an audible “pop”, and now after the unit heats up, it has a “Chugging” effect, where the flame completely goes out, then re lights over and over. I am at a loss, and unsure which parts to change out.
Hi Brian
Generally, the popping sound produces when the metal components expand as they warm up & it disappears within a few minutes.
However, to fix your flame goes out issue, as you have changed the pilot assembly now check the burners for clogged ports & clear them if needed.
If it doesn’t work, contact the Heat N Glo customer support center or a professional.
Wish you all the best!
The current wait for a Heat & Glo Tech is 10 weeks so I need to figure this out. The pilot is good ever since I changed the thermocouple last year. The thermostat and wall switch no longer starts the main flame, only the switch at the gas valve. The thermostat will shut the main valve off when the room reaches the desired temp. The thermopile is putting out 411 mV with pilot flame at the valve. 350 mV at the thermostat 60 feet away. All has been cleaned. Stumped.
Hi Ted
As your fireplace pilot light is good, to fix the issue, clean the dirt & debris between the igniter & thermocouple or thermopile. Plus, blowing compressed air into the pilot area is a good idea.
If it doesn’t work, contact the Heat & Glo customer support center.
Best of luck!
Hi. We have an old Heat & Glo Cerona 42. I am no longer getting a readout on the wall controller / thermostat. Can you guide me in the right direction?
Hi Mike
As you are not getting a readout on the screen, check the batteries & replace them with current power according to the manual (if needed).
Hopefully, your problem will be solved.
Wish you all the best!
Hi, I have a H-N-G Pier TRC w/DSI
It will ignite using both the Wall thermostat or the unit switch underneath. One can hear the ignitor and unit will flame. It runs for 15-30 seconds and Flames out. I have replaced thermo batteries and rest program. I don’t see any common clean points or other wear items.
it worked fine until this cold season. Don’t want to just buy parts and hope for the best. Thanks
Hi Jeff
Typically, this type of problem happens due to dirty or faulty sensors. Well, to fix the issue, clean the pilot light assembly including the pilot light, thermopile, and thermocouple.
If cleaning doesn’t work, you may need to replace these parts.
Hopefully, your fireplace issue will be solved.
Best of luck!
Heat n glo 6000TRB DSI LP turns off after about an hour. All cleaned up. Replaced the ignitor which has the heat sensor in it. No improvement.
Hi Emrys
To fix the issue, first, inspect the logs/coals, they may touch the pilot light & consequently, your gas fireplace shuts off after about an hour.
Well, in such case move them a bit & clean the pilot light. This process should resolve the issue.
But if it doesn’t work, check for a bad thermocouple, tripped high-limit switch, inadequate combustible air, bad heating element, low gas pressure, bad thermostat, and tripped circuit breaker one after one to find out the main issue & fix it following our solution guide in Heat N Glo fireplace turns off by itself.
Hopefully, your fireplace problem will be solved.
Wish you all the best!