Do I need to shut the gas off to my fireplace before I replace the wall switch?
-
Welcome. More information about your fireplace and the switch will get you more accurate and reliable answers. The question is quite vague as it is. Please take the tour to learn how this site works.– isherwoodDec 29, 2020 at 13:49
Add a comment
|
2 Answers
Generally speaking it's not necessary.
Disconnecting the switch is no different than turning the switch off. Both can create tiny sparks and both leave the fireplace without power. Of course, if you turn off the breaker as you should, sparks are less likely.
Either you have an electronic gas valve, in which case it'll remain closed, or you have a pilot flame, in which case it'll continue burning. Both are safe conditions.
answered Dec 29, 2020 at 13:47
-
1With millivolt gas valves being the most common and then 24v I normally just replace the switch or thermostat. I do check to verify it is not a 120v connection because sometimes you can get a surprise, so I agree if low / finger safe voltages, but would test just to be sure.– Ed BealDec 29, 2020 at 14:25
This is like "do i need to turn off the engine while pumping gas?".
The answer is always YES. Because you need to prepare precaution.
The leaking gas can be smelled but our nose could be blocked by cold or flu and change the sense of smell, making it hard to smell the leaking gas.
If the gas starts to leaks while you replacing the wall switch you could panic and making the decision while panic is never ended well.
Unless the gas line is far away from your wall switch you don't need to shut off the gas.
-
Since the elimination of mercury switches a standard snap switch has the same flash hazard as removing a low voltage connection. If the switch is 120v it is advisable to turn off the breaker.– Ed BealDec 29, 2020 at 14:28