One of the most common issues that can cause a Fire Sense patio heater to keep shutting off is a problem with the pilot light. The pilot light is responsible for igniting the main burner and keeping the heater running. If the pilot light is not functioning properly, it can cause the heater to shut off intermittently.
One possible reason for the pilot light not working properly is that the flame has become too far away from the thermocouple. The thermocouple is a safety device that senses the presence of the pilot light flame. If the flame is not in close proximity to the thermocouple, it may not generate enough heat to keep the thermocouple engaged. As a result, the thermocouple will turn off the gas valve, thinking that the pilot light is out.
To fix this issue, you can try adjusting the position of the pilot light flame. First, make sure the gas supply to the heater is turned off. Then, locate the pilot light assembly, which is usually located near the bottom of the heater. You may need to remove a cover or access panel to reach it.
Once you have access to the pilot light assembly, you can use a long lighter or match to relight the pilot light. Hold the lighter or match near the pilot light assembly and turn the gas supply back on. Use the igniter button or knob to ignite the pilot light. Once the pilot light is lit, continue to hold the igniter button or knob for about 30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up.
After the thermocouple has had time to heat up, release the igniter button or knob. The pilot light should remain lit on its own. If the pilot light goes out when you release the igniter button or knob, it may be an indication that the flame is not close enough to the thermocouple.
To adjust the position of the pilot light flame, you can use a small screwdriver or wrench to turn the adjustment screw on the pilot light assembly. This screw is usually located near the flame. Turning the screw clockwise will move the flame closer to the thermocouple, while turning it counterclockwise will move the flame farther away. Make small adjustments and test the pilot light after each adjustment to see if it stays lit without the need to hold the igniter button or knob.
If adjusting the position of the pilot light flame does not solve the issue, there may be other underlying problems causing the heater to shut off. These could include a faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot light orifice, or a malfunctioning gas valve. In such cases, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance to diagnose and repair the heater.
If your Fire Sense patio heater keeps shutting off, the pilot light flame may be too far away from the thermocouple. Adjusting the position of the flame can help resolve the issue. However, if the problem persists, it may be necessary to consult a professional for further troubleshooting and repairs.