Drill hole in a ceramic log

[Steve19601960]

Have a gas firplace . Propane with ceramic logs.
On my old set I could see when the pilot light was on.
Not with a new set I got last year. Could I drill a hole or cut a log without a problem?

Thanks for any suggestions

 

[DAKSY]

You CAN, but you shouldn't have to, if the replacement log set is the correct one for your unit.

 

[Steve19601960]

Is a Empire Flint Hill set. Cant see pilot light and is designed that way. Just more comfortable if I can see the pilot light when I am in the room or walk buy.
Did read on some logs the material inside cant put out and odor or soot .

Also any suggestions on the best quality if I decide to replace these. Only 1 year old and already have to replace pilot light and valve.

 

[DAKSY]

Why did you have to replace the valve?
Not sure exactly what mean by replacing the pilot light.
This is a "ventless" or in reality, house vented log set, correct?

 

[Steve19601960]

Yes is a ventless.
Had less than a year. First problem was would only go on High flame. Could not adjust. Thought I could live with that. But then went to turn on and could hear the gas rushing out without a flame. Looked and the pilot light was out. Not suppose to that.
Called the company and they would only sent me parts. The pilot assembly . And the valve that controls flame height.
At this point actually waiting for a plumber since I have to have the parts installed. And myself dont like to mess with gas.

Only a year or less old. But still wonder if I should just replace the whole 18" log set with a better brand. Like a RH Petterson. Just hate to spend about 800.00 . When the other one only had about 6 hours use.
Thanks for any suggestions

 

[DAKSY]

Did you try to clean the Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) on the pilot nozzle?
On the back side of the tube, there is a small hole, maybe 3/32" diameter.
That hole can get blocked with dust or pet dander. It happens a LOT with
household vented units...
A can of compressed air works well for clearing. that ODS...

 

[Steve19601960]

Dont think the pilot was dirty. Think it is the thermocouple. Main concern is allowing gas to be turned on high without a flame.