Do I need to relight the pilot after my propane tank runs empty or the gas is shut off for service, and is there air in the line to work through?
Yes to both in Mars Hill, and which scenario you face depends on where you live. Out in the Spring Creek and Gabriels Creek valleys, propane and wood rule, so an empty tank is common; nearer the university, easy-use gas is the norm. Either way the pilot goes out when supply's cut and needs relighting, with air in the line to purge first.
Rural Valleys Run on Propane
The rural homes up Spring Creek and Gabriels Creek lean on propane and wood, and out there a tank running empty is a real possibility every cold stretch. When it does, the relight waits: your supplier must run a leak and pressure test on the system before you light anything, because a drained tank can pull air and moisture into the lines. Only after that test does the relight happen — and even then, expect several attempts as the air still in the line purges toward the burner.
University-Area Units Light Easy
Closer to Mars Hill University, the demand runs to easy-use gas fireplaces — many on electronic ignition that light by switch. After a gas interruption there's no standing pilot; the igniter sparks on its own and may fault a few cycles against the air before catching. Reset per the control, wait, and let it clear rather than forcing it. This is one of the colder spots we serve, so a reliable relight matters more than most places.
Licensed, 30 Minutes Out
Whichever side of Mars Hill you're on, if the fireplace won't light after supply is properly restored, that's our lane. We're a licensed gas contractor 30 minutes north, pulling the permit with Madison County on line work and pressure-testing every run. Call (828) 545-0525.
Fireplace help in Mars Hill
We install and service fireplaces throughout Mars Hill and the rest of Madison County — just 30 minutes north from our Asheville-area showroom.
Related questions
- How do I light the pilot light on my gas fireplace?
- How long do I hold the pilot knob down when lighting it, and why won't it stay lit if I let go too soon?
- How long should I wait before trying again if the pilot doesn't catch on the first try?
- Is it safe to relight the pilot myself, or should a professional do it?
- How do I turn the pilot light off completely?