(Relatively) New natural gas logs mains won't light

Installed a ventless set of new natural gas logs a year ago, worked just fine all last winter. Cut off the pilot last spring. Relit pilot this past weekend (no problems), but main burners will not light. Took set out of fireplace twice, cleaned all thermocouple surfaces of soot, etc, check wiring for loose connections, blew out burners with compressed air, but still no main burners. Can't believe that it is anything complex, has to be something simple. Any suggestions for further checking and tests would be much appreciated!

 

If the pilot stays lit without pushing the knob, chances are that there is a problem with the gas valve. Contact the manufacturer for help or repair. Sorry for the bad news.

 

I'd love to help out on this, but I am not going to suggest anything on what to look for.

However, just an FYI, Ventless gas buring fireplace is not really a good thing to have in a home, you are at high risk of getting CO, and CO death has been on the rise over the years. Be sure you have CO detector in your home, and also in your bedrooms.

 

Actually, I have had ventless gas logs for over 8 years without a problem, and a top of the line CO monitor that never got off of zero for a reading. The key is to not run them more than an hour or two, and to slightly crack a nearby window.

With regards to my gas log set, other than the gas valve, the thermopile that provides to voltage to operate the gas valve may be bad or misaligned such that the pilot flame is not providing enough heat. My former gas log set would not work if enough soot built up on the surface (unfortunately not the case for this set). I guess I'll have to break out the voltmeter and see what is going on.

 

If you have soot on vent-free gas logs, then you have other issues. Soot build up is an indication of the unit not burning properly. Vent-free gas logs are a good and safe source of heat....IF properly maintained.

You should call a professional.