Why is my patio heater not igniting?
Olivia Shea
Updated on February 25, 2026
Patio heater not igniting – As with igniting concerns, you should first see whether you are getting a spark on the head of the igniter. If yes, then see whether the pilot light is burning, if it is not lit, then check for blockages if any. Doing so, will go out or burn off dust blockage caused and it should work fine.
What do you do if your pilot light won’t light?
If your pilot light won’t stay alight, it might be the thermocouple. Sometimes dust buildup collects on the thermocouple and blocks the sensor. Try cleaning the thermocouple and then relighting the pilot light. If it continues to go out, the thermocouple might need to be replaced.
How do I test my patio heater igniter?
To test the spark igniter, use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the screen around the main burner (a.k.a. emitter screen). This will expose the ignition assembly, which consists of the spark igniter, pilot tube and thermocouple. Hold down the ignition switch to visually inspect for a spark.
Can you manually light a patio heater?
To manually light a patio heater with a pilot ignition system, all you have to do is push and turn the control knob and then press the stick button a few times. To light up a patio heater without a pilot ignition system, you will have to factor in the gas control knob as well.
What causes a pilot light to not light?
Common Reasons Your Furnace Pilot Won’t Light There are several possible reasons why your gas furnace pilot won’t light: an ongoing draft, a faulty thermocouple, an accumulation of dirt, or an inefficient supply.
How do you light a patio heater without a pilot light?
Heaters without Pilot Light Ignition System
- Make sure heater is in the “off” position and propane tank is completely closed.
- Attach propane tank and open slowly until is in a fully open position.
- Depress gas control knob and turn to the “low” position.
- Continue to keep gas control knob depressed for 30 seconds.
How does the igniter work on a patio heater?
All patio heaters feature a control knob that is responsible for igniting the flame. However, those without a pilot ignition system feature both a control knob and ignition button. In the absence of the pilot ignition system, the control knob releases the gas to the burner and the ignitor ignites the flame.
Why won’t my outdoor patio heater pilot light stay lit?
Spider webs in the pilot tube and a faulty tilt switch can be two reasons why an outdoor patio heater pilot light won’t start or stay lit. The repair of both is discussed.
How do you fix a patio heater that won’t turn on?
There is a way to fix this problem. Making sure the patio heater is “off”, sure a pair of pliers to gently squeeze the pilot light and the thermocouple a bit closer. To squeeze the pilot light and sensor-bulb together, remove the top of the heater and the front control panel that covers the pilot light and control knob.
What to do if your water heater does not have a pilot?
If your gas water heater has a closed burner chamber or doesn’t have a pilot light, it’s much more difficult to access. To do this replacement, you most likely need a professional to fix this type of thermocouple. Water Heater Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit?
Why is my patio heater flame too low?
Patio Heater Flame Is Too Low. Sometimes the heater will stay lit but the flame is too low. This could mean that the gas pressure is too low. When the outdoor temperature is less than 40 degrees F and the tank is less than one-quarter full a low flame will result.