Expert: Steve Tavares - 11/27/2009

Question
We have a gas fireplace that suddenly is working erratically.  When in use, the fire occasionally goes out (the pilot flame remains lit at all times) and then will come back on by itself.  Sometimes it will stay out for as long 5 inutes, sometimes just a minute or so.  If we turn it off when this happens and then turn it back on immediately, it fires right up.  Any and all suggestions greatly appreciated.

Answer
It sounds to me like the fireplace switch. I would recommend taking the switch off and touching the two wires together and let it runs for 10 minutes. If the flame doesn't turn off then you'll just need to replace the switch. If the same symptoms keep happening then I would have a service man come in and inspect the fireplace as it could be something else.

Hope this helps.