If your liquid propane flame in the parlor stove stops for a few seconds and then reignites with a puff, it is likely experiencing a phenomenon called "delayed ignition" or "pilot outage." This can be potentially dangerous, so it's important to address the issue promptly to ensure safe operation of your parlor stove.
Several reasons could cause this problem:
Air in the gas line: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the gas line, leading to a disruption in the fuel supply to the burner. When the air is purged and the propane finally reaches the burner, it can ignite with a puff.
Dirty or clogged burner: Dirt, debris, or carbon buildup on the burner or its components can obstruct the flow of gas and disrupt the flame's stability, leading to pilot outages.
Insufficient gas pressure: If the gas pressure is too low, the flame may not burn consistently, leading to intermittent ignition.
Faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple is a safety device that detects if the pilot light is lit. If the thermocouple is malfunctioning or not positioned correctly, it may shut off the gas supply, causing the flame to go out.
Proximity of thermocouple to the flame: If the thermocouple is located too close to the burner or flame, it may overheat and shut off the gas supply prematurely.
Issues with the regulator: Problems with the propane regulator can affect the gas flow and lead to intermittent flames.
To address this issue, follow these steps:
Turn off the gas: Shut off the gas supply to the parlor stove immediately if you experience delayed ignition. Safety should be a top priority.
Inspect and clean the burner: Check the burner and its components for any dirt, debris, or carbon buildup. If you find any, carefully clean them with a soft brush or compressed air.
Check for gas leaks: Before restarting the stove, check for gas leaks using a soapy water solution. Apply the solution to the gas connections, and if you see bubbles forming, it indicates a leak. In this case, do not attempt to use the stove until a qualified technician has fixed the issue.
Check the thermocouple: Ensure that the thermocouple is properly positioned and not too close to the burner or flame. If it's faulty, it may need to be replaced.
Ensure proper gas pressure: If you suspect low gas pressure, contact your propane supplier or a qualified technician to measure and adjust the pressure as necessary.
Ventilate the area: In case there was a significant buildup of gas during the outage, open windows and doors to ventilate the area before attempting to reignite the stove.
Call a professional: If the issue persists or you're unsure about any of the steps, it's best to contact a qualified technician or gas appliance professional to inspect and fix the parlor stove.
Remember, dealing with gas appliances can be hazardous, so if you are uncertain about any steps or if the problem is not resolved quickly, it's better to seek professional help rather than attempting to fix it yourself.