Gas Log Articles
Gas Logs
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Customer Q&A with Product Specialists
Diane R.
from Graford, TX asked:
We purchased the Monessen NB18PIF gas log set and followed all installation instructions. Our hookup matches the diagrams exactly. The pilot light is lit and the thermostat is set to medium, but when we turn on the switch, the burner does not ignite. We have tried both the included On/Off switch (shaped like a small log) and the wall switch wired by our contractor. What do you suggest?
The Monessen Natural Blaze owner and installation manual lists this lighting sequence for the millivolt control: light the pilot with the On/Off/Pilot knob at IGN, turn the knob counterclockwise to ON, and wait one minute after the pilot lights before turning on the ON/OFF switch. First, confirm the On/Off/Pilot knob was turned all the way to ON after lighting. The Hi/Lo knob is a separate control that only sets flame height.If the knob is already at ON and the burner still will not come on, check the following:- Pilot flame contact: The pilot flame must touch the thermocouple. If it does not, the main burner cannot operate reliably.- Wiring: The wall switch should use 18 gauge two-wire cable no longer than 15 feet, with one wire on the TP/TH terminal and one on the TH terminal. Wiring errors can cause improper operation, so ask your contractor to verify these connections.- Millivolt readings: With a millivolt meter, the thermopile should read at least 500 millivolts with the switch off, and the complete system should read at least 175 millivolts with the switch on and the knob at ON. Per the manual, more than 175 millivolts with no main burner indicates the control valve needs replacement, while a low reading points to gas pressure or the pilot assembly.Meter and gas pressure checks should be performed by a qualified gas technician. You can find a certified hearth professional near you at nficertified.org. If the technician finds a failed part, reply with the model and serial number from the rating plate, and we will check availability for you.
Answered by:
Tyler M.
on Nov 09, 2026
Robert F.
from Harriman, TN asked:
Our remote starter won't light the logs. It clicks, but nothing happens. Why won't it start? It's been a while since we last turned it on.
It sounds like your remote starter may not be lighting the logs due to a few potential issues. Since it hasn't been used recently, the most common culprits are:
1. **Batteries:** Both the remote transmitter and the receiver unit inside the fireplace may have weak or dead batteries. Even if the remote's screen lights up, the batteries might not have enough power to send a strong signal.
2. **Pilot Light:** Ensure the pilot light is lit and has a steady flame. Some systems require the pilot to be lit before the remote can activate the main burner.
3. **Synchronization:** The remote and receiver may have lost their synchronization. You might need to re-sync them by following the instructions in your fireplace's manual. This often involves pressing a 'learn' or 'sync' button on the receiver while pressing a button on the remote.
4. **Wiring or Connections:** Although less common if it was previously working, double-check that the wiring to the receiver is secure and correct, especially if any recent work was done on the fireplace.
To begin troubleshooting, we recommend replacing the batteries in both the remote and the receiver unit first. If that doesn't resolve the issue, consult your fireplace's owner's manual for specific troubleshooting steps related to the pilot light and remote synchronization.
Answered by:
Tyler M.
on Mar 03, 2026
Bruce L.
from Hamden, CT asked:
We have a gas log unit with a remote starter. When the unit was installed in 2013 the remote starter lit the logs within a few seconds. It now takes 30 seconds. What can we do to get it to light more rapidly? We've had service men come, but the problem pe
Short of recommending another service call to have the pilot assembly thoroughly cleaned, another cause of such of a problem could be diminished gas pressure.
Answered by:
Tyler M. - NFI Master Hearth Professional
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3 Questions and Answers
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