I just received my vent-free Peterson gas log unit. When I ignite the pilot I get a fairly powerful 4-5 inch flame. When I let go of the button the flame goes out immediately. I noticed that the thermocouple is not directly in line with the flame and is about 1 mm away from touching it. Two Times the flame stayed lit when I released the button and turned it to the ON position. However, the pilot flame remained 4-5 inches high. At that point I turned on the burner and it worked for about a minute at which point the pilot went out and the unit shut down. Any thoughts?

Thanks,
Steve

The thermocouple has to be locatd in the flame for proper operation. Check the manual that came with the unit. Many of those units have a oxyger depeletion sensor also and the spacing of the thermocouple could be critical.

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Originally Posted by writesds

I just received my vent-free Peterson gas log unit. When I ignite the pilot I get a fairly powerful 4-5 inch flame. When I let go of the button the flame goes out immediately. I noticed that the thermocouple is not directly in line with the flame and is about 1 mm away from touching it. Two Times the flame stayed lit when I released the button and turned it to the ON position. However, the pilot flame remained 4-5 inches high. At that point I turned on the burner and it worked for about a minute at which point the pilot went out and the unit shut down. Any thoughts?

Thanks,
Steve

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I think you're right about the position of the thermocouple, but what is the explanation of the 4 inch pilot flame? Thanks for your response.

It could be that you have a natural gas orifice instead if a propane orifice. Are you using propane?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by writesds

I just received my vent-free Peterson gas log unit. When I ignite the pilot I get a fairly powerful 4-5 inch flame. When I let go of the button the flame goes out immediately. I noticed that the thermocouple is not directly in line with the flame and is about 1 mm away from touching it. Two Times the flame stayed lit when I released the button and turned it to the ON position. However, the pilot flame remained 4-5 inches high. At that point I turned on the burner and it worked for about a minute at which point the pilot went out and the unit shut down. Any thoughts?

Thanks,
Steve

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I have natural gas and a natural gas unit--at least all of the documentation says natural gas.

In that case I would check the install manual for information concerning the pilot. If no info there check with the manufacturer. A 4/5 inch pilot is way to high in my opinion. There might be a pilot adjustment on the valve.

One other thing. Whenever we install a gas fired appliance we check the gas pressure and adjust it to the factory specs. It would be a good idea for you to do this also. You will need a gauge and adapter for this.

Most units are set close from the factory but due to shipping and different values of gas content it needs to be done as part of the install. Good luck with your project.

I will check into it. Thanks for the time.
Steve

This also sounds like the orifice may be removed from the pilot burner... but *how*?