When dealing with a patio heater that fails to lights start with the simplest cause and work through the list
. The most common error is misdiagnosing a blocked pilot and drilling a hole to make it bigger and fix the problem!! Do Not drill the pilot light, once a hole has been drilled the whole burner will become a flame thrower and is a total write-off!
Begin by checking the LPG gas tank has fuel and is in the on position. Sometimes it can be difficult to calculate how much LPG is in the tank. Remove the LPG hose from the regulator and switch the gas on for a few seconds only outdoors keeping it away from any naked flame and do not smoke when making adjustments and repairs. If you can hear and smell LPG gas the tank will have fuel.
To see if the ignitor is working just push the red button and put your thumb on the other end. You should hear it click and feel a sharp sting, if not then the ignitor needs changing. Very simple to replace and repair, just pull the ignitor lead off the back and unscrew to take off. Fit a new ignitor.
The thermocouple is the first consumable part to wear out, this part can last anywhere between 12 months if you are unlucky and up to 7 years depending on the constant use of the patio heater, storage and make. Changing a thermocouple will fix 80% of all lighting issues. An quick and simple way to work out what the thermocouple looks like and see how to fix them is to view a patio heater sparesto see a match to your type of patio heater.
Second on the consumables list is the electromagnetic valve. If fitting a new thermocouple did not fix the lighting problem take a look at the electromagnetic valve. This is fitted inside the gas valve and can be accessed by unbolting the back section that holds the electromagnetic valve in place. Always use plumbers tape to reseal joints and test for leaks before firing up. A leakage test can be done by using a solution of soap with one part liquid detergent (washing-up liquid) and one part water. This soapy solution is applied to joints using a clean paint brush or spray bottle. Turn the LPG gas supply on but do not light the burner. Ensure the safety control valve on the burner is in the OFF position. If a leak is present, turn off the LPG gas supply. Tighten any fittings and re-test. Continue checking until all leaks and connections are tighten according the manufacturer's instructions.
Third consumable part that may need changing is the tilt switch. This part can cause similar firing problems on patio heaters. Very easy to change on all types of patio heaters, they are attached via two leads that push on to the tilt switch. Unclip the leads and swap for a new tilt switch. On some patio heaters these are soldered on, if so just adjust accordingly.
Should all the above components work OK on your patio heater then you'll need more specialist help. The cheap and cheerful tin plated patio heater burners are non repairable.