IF YOUR CHIMNEY IS CRYING OUT FOR HELP, CALL US!
TN / 931-967-3595 • AL / 256-285-4895
If you have a gas fireplace, you have a most delightful winter convenience. But does your gas fireplace need annual maintenance? Yes, safety experts say the national standard is for all fireplaces, chimneys, and vents to be inspected at least once a year. Granted, there aren’t the problems created by creosote, which only wood fires produce. But checking for soundness and checking clearances can protect your family from potential harm. The following are just a few of the things that can go wrong with gas powered fireplaces.
Issues such as breakdowns are common with gas fireplaces and gas logs. A certified professional chimney sweep can identify impending problems with your gas fireplace and make repairs. Annual maintenance helps ensure continuous use of your fireplace until the arrival of warmer weather in spring.
If your gas fireplace uses a chimney, the fireplace sucks in air that has hair in it—especially if you have pets. Animal dander, hair, and debris are pulled into the burner, often causing it to fail. In the meantime, when the hair is burned in a burner, it could aggravate the respiratory system of anyone with allergies.
Even seldom-used and never-used masonry chimneys should be inspected yearly. Chimneys are highly vulnerable to moisture. The upkeep of chimneys is less expensive overall if you get annual inspections. Otherwise, eventually, a neglected chimney will begin to lean and will no doubt need a full masonry rebuild someday. In addition, it is not unusual for various creatures to get into a chimney and create an obstruction. If the blockage isn’t removed, it could mean dangerous carbon monoxide exposure in the home.
Why does your gas fireplace need annual maintenance? There is always the possibility of a gas leak when you have a gas fireplace and gas logs. A gas leak in a house could potentially cause a house fire, and inhaling gas can cause potentially deadly carbon monoxide poisoning. The leak could be in the fireplace or in the connection to the wall. Always call the gas company if you smell raw gas. They will shut off the gas, and your trusted chimney sweep company can do gas line repairs.
If something should fall on your gas fireplace or gas logs set, it could break. As a result, large amounts of carbon monoxide may be released into your home. Carbon monoxide is known as The Silent Killer because it is odorless, tasteless, symptomless, and invisible.
If you have a vent-free gas fireplace, you could experience the discomfort that comes with the smell of burning gas. Headaches are just one of the issues that arise when people start smelling burning gas. Vent-free gas logs have no venting to remove the fumes produced by fires. As a result, the smell is usually stronger.
Chimney sweeps are often called upon to remove vent-free gas logs—certainly more than any other appliance. We recommend a direct-vent fireplace, which is a great option. It directly vents outside, usually through a nearby wall, and the source of air for the fireplace is brought in from the out-of-doors.
Don’t allow the convenience of a gas fireplace to be accompanied by complacency. Does your gas fireplace need annual maintenance? All signs point to yes. For safety’s sake and for peace of mind, call A-1 Chimney Specialist at 931-967-3595 (TN) or 256-285-4895 (AL) to schedule a chimney inspection today or you can fill out our online contact form.