There’s nothing quite like a cozy room heated by a gas fireplace on a cold winter evening. Turning on your gas fireplace is perhaps the best way to make a room warm and cozy when it’s chilly outside. You get to enjoy the comfort and reliable warmth of a gas fireplace that can start up with the click of a button or flip of a switch.
One key to enjoying the warmth of a fireplace or stove is keeping up with maintenance and ensuring the parts are in good order. Gas fireplace maintenance in Washington is so necessary as the chill of winter sets in.
How Often Should You Have Your Gas Fireplace Serviced?
Gas fireplaces should undergo professional fireplace maintenance in Washington at least once a year. It’s best to inspect the fireplace in the summer to make sure it’s ready to use when the weather cools down come fall. If you use your gas fireplace year-round, consider scheduling the service twice a year.
Of course, your fireplace may develop issues even if it’s not yet due for maintenance. Knowing the warning signs of fireplace problems can help you know when to call for a Washington fireplace repair service before the matter worsens.
Signs Your Fireplace Needs Servicing
Contact a trusted Washington fireplace maintenance professional if you notice any of these issues with your gas fireplace:
1. Condensation Around the Chimney
Seeing some condensation around the chimney is normal, as the vapor inside the firebox evaporates when you start the fireplace. However, an improperly vented fire can lead to a lack of airflow, making the ceiling and walls around the chimney wet.
2. The CO Detector Is Going Off
If your home’s carbon monoxide (CO) detector goes off, your gas fireplace may be the culprit. CO can form without enough oxygen to complete the combustion process. A lack of oxygen can occur because of restricted airflow in the fireplace, often in response to a blockage.
Some gas fireplace models have oxygen depletion sensors to prevent a buildup of CO. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly, so be sure to call emergency services and vacate your home until the problem is resolved.
3. Hissing Noises and Strange Smells
If you hear hissing when you start the fireplace, that’s likely the sound of a gas leak. You may also notice a strange smell when there’s a leak, as the gas used in some fireplaces contains an odorant for faster detection. A burning smell may occur if the fireplace has faulty wiring.
4. The Pilot Light Is Out
The pilot light is the small flame responsible for lighting up the gas in the fireplace. It could stop working for various reasons. For example, the flame will go out if there’s not enough air in the fireplace or the pilot light’s parts are too dirty. Another possibility is that a broken valve or a line leak prevents it from receiving the gas required for combustion.
Why Fireplace and Stove Maintenance Is Important
Stove and gas fireplace maintenance keep your unit working correctly, ensuring you can keep Washington’s winter cold at bay. Having key parts and the entire system checked periodically means you can enjoy that reliable comfort every day or night.
While today’s stoves and fireplaces are engineered to be as durable as they are warm and beautiful, critical system components need to be inspected regularly. From making sure the vent and pilot light are operating perfectly to cleaning the glass and firebox, simple regular maintenance is essential.
What Happens When a Fireplace Isn’t Maintained Regularly?
If you don’t care for your gas fireplace, it could leak or get dirty, causing the components to malfunction or break down prematurely. Not only can these issues prevent the fireplace from starting up properly, but they can lead to more dangerous consequences.
As mentioned, the risk of carbon monoxide fumes is concerning. Gas leaks can also lead to buildups that cause the fireplace to explode from a spark.
General Fireplace Maintenance Tips
You can also take some steps to care for your gas fireplace on your own. Clean the glass regularly to avoid the buildup of harmful chemicals and contaminants. Wait at least 30 minutes after cleaning to turn on the fireplace to ensure the evaporation of the cleaner.
Using your vacuum’s wand attachment, you can clean debris and dust from the fireplace’s interior. If you notice a buildup of soot or dust on the logs, use a soft-bristled brush to remove it.
Key Parts and Services of a Gas Fireplace
- Gas valve: The gas valve controls the flow of gas to the system and must be able to open and completely close.
- Pilot light: The pilot light must remain on and be able to be turned off and relit whenever needed.
- Glass assembly: The glass assembly should be regularly cleaned and remain sealed.
- Firebox: The firebox should be cleaned regularly to remove unwanted dirt and debris.
- Burner ignition: The control knob and ignition button are used to light your fireplace when the gas is turned on. They should be checked for proper function.
- Vent and Fan: The vent and fan deliver warmth from your fireplace to the surrounding living space and should be regularly cleaned and checked for proper function.
- Chimney: The chimney should also be checked for dirt buildup that could obstruct airflow. Meanwhile, check the nearby ceiling and walls for signs of condensation, such as peeling paint or mold. Aqua Rec’s does not do chimney sweeps, but we can recommend some great companies in the area.
As the trusted experts in fireplace maintenance in Washington, Aqua Rec’s will conduct these maintenance services to ensure your gas fireplace stays in shape for the colder months ahead.
Get the Parts and Services for Your Stove or Fireplace Today
Aqua Rec’s is the place to find the best gas fireplaces. Make sure you have yours cleaned and checked regularly as part of your gas fireplace and maintenance. Washington’s stove and fireplace leader is here to help at Aqua Rec’s, so contact us today!