How to Restart Gas Heaters
Gas heaters are found in a number of homes and serve as an economical way to keep the space warm and cozy during cold weather. Restarting gas heaters after being shut down for several months is easy, but needs to be done with care. By following a couple of basic steps, it is possible to restart the flame on gas heaters and be ready for even the coldest of days and nights.
- Have the gas lines and fittings to the heater checked by a gas company technician. Many will provide this service for free once per calendar year. The goal is to make sure everything is in working order before attempting to light the pilot and use the heater.
- Inspect the power connections. Some gas heaters make use of electric starters to light the pilot. Make sure that the connections are secure. For battery operated starters, check the batteries and make sure they are charged before proceeding.
- Turn on the gas supply to the heater. This is normally done by turning a valve located on the back of the unit or top of the line connection, at the point where the line from the heater connects with the home’s gas line. Unless usage instructions on the heater indicate otherwise, turning the valve clockwise will open the flow of gas to the heater.
- Light the pilot light. After allowing a couple of minutes for the flow of gas to come through the pipes and into the heater, set the heater controls to the pilot position. Depress the electric pilot control to create the spark that allows the pilot to ignite. Hold for a moment to make sure the pilot remains functional.
- Adjust the controls to start the heater. For single room units, this will be apparent when the flames spread from the pilot across the bricks or grid section of the heater, generating warmth for the room. Allow the flames to burn for awhile to make sure any dust or other contaminants that may have settled in the heater during the summer months is consumed.
- Set the temperature controls. Most gas heaters today come with safety features that include temperature control. Essentially, when the room temperature reaches a certain level, the heater will cut back on the flame and remain in that state until more heat is needed to keep the space comfortable.