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Napoleon · Gas fireplace troubleshooting

Delayed ignition of main burner

What is going on

Main burner lights late or with a roll-out/puff.

Likely causes

  • Pilot too small/mispositioned
  • Low supply pressure
  • Blocked or wrong-size burner orifice
  • Venturi (air shutter) out of adjustment
  • Venturi access door leaking (direct vent)
  • Burner not level
  • Logs out of place
  • Embers clogging ports
  • Vent or door seal leaks (direct vent)

Check in this order

  1. Warning: delayed ignition can be hazardous - correct before returning to service.
  2. Check pilot size and position so it reaches the ignition ports.
  3. Test inline supply pressure.
  4. Check burner and orifice for blockage and confirm orifice size is to spec.
  5. Check and adjust the venturi/air shutter to improve ignition time.
  6. Direct vent make sure the venturi access door is tightly sealed and its gasket intact.
  7. Level the burner (direct vent / vent-free).
  8. Check log position and make sure charcoal/glowing embers are not clogging the ports.
  9. Direct vent check vent seals and the main door seal for air leaks.

Applies to: Napoleon gas fireplaces - direct vent, natural vent and vent-free (general service manual)

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Source: Napoleon (Wolf Steel) Service Manual W415-0118, Part 1-3 Troubleshooting, Main Burner Delayed Ignition Flowcharts, p.5 / p.14 / p.23. Written in our own words; check the manual for your exact model.

For licensed technicians. Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a qualified, licensed person. Shut off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the exact model; it and local codes always take priority. HVACopedia is not affiliated with any manufacturer; brand and model names only identify the equipment.