So it’s October, it’s a bit nippy outside, and you want to light your gas logs for the first time. You hit the remote control and nothing happens. Oh yeah, the pilot light. You light the pilot and still nothing. The batteries! You get the right batteries and install them. Still nothing! All of the good service companies are booked up until December and you really do not want to have to wait that long for an appointment to have the problem fixed.

It still might be the batteries. With gas logs using a standing pilot and remote control, there are actually two parts to the system that use batteries. It is best to consult the owners operating manual if you have this type gas log system, for the procedure to replace the batteries. No manual? Don’t lose heart. Even if you do not have the manual, you can probably accomplish the job with some basic knowledge. There are similarities to most of the popular remote control systems.

Light My Fire - Spartanburg SC - Bless Your HearthLet’s look at what you have.

The two parts are:

• The Transmitter: the part you hold in your hand.
• The Receiver: a small box that is connected to the log set with wires.

The receiver also uses batteries. They could be a different type batter than the transmitter uses. After replacing the batteries with new ones, there is probably one more thing you must do to get things working. Often, there is a “learning” or “programming” procedure that needs to be done. The receiver should have a recessed button labeled “Learn” or “Program”. Depress this button with a paper clip or similar size tool, and you should hear one or more beeps. Then press the “start” or “on” button on the transmitter. A series of beeps should come from the transmitter.
If this does not work, you may need the help of a service technician.

However, there could be one more thing you can check before you call in the “Cavalry”. Some gas logs do not have a standing pilot but use an ignition that is all electronic. If this is the kind of system you have, there will be a third component that uses batteries. It is another box that is usually larger than the receiver box and is connected to the burner by wires. This igniter supplies the spark to light the pilot. It reads a signal to know that the pilot is working before it lights the burner. This box will probably use a third type of battery. After replacing all batteries you will still likely need to go through the learning procedure to synchronize the transmitter and receiver.

This describes many of the popular systems but there are other variations. Having the owner’s manual may help you to perform a similar procedure on your own system, without the help of a service technician.

If you are not somewhat familiar with gas burners in general you may still want the help of a professional, especially if your gas supply is propane (LP). So, if you find that you need a service technician, feel free send a note or make an appointment through our handy contact form on our website.

If you are not in our area, check for a CSIA Certified Sweep near you. Look for the search box on their home page and ask whomever you call if they service gas logs.