Gas Fireplace Maintenance & Repair FAQs
Gas fireplaces and gas log inserts are a clean, safe way to stay warm during Virginia’s chilly winter weather, but they still need maintenance and repairs even if they don’t burn wood or produce ash. If you’re wondering how to properly clean, maintain, and repair your gas fireplace or gas log inserts, the experienced technicians at Extreme Climates in Hampton Roads, VA can help.
We’ve included answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about gas fireplace maintenance and repairs below. You can also contact us with your specific questions, or schedule gas fireplace service in Yorktown, Williamsburg, Gloucester, and the surrounding communities.
You should have your gas fireplace or gas log insert inspected by a professional at least once a year. This annual maintenance is crucial for ensuring the unit is safe, efficient, and in good working order before each heating season.
The gas fireplace technicians at Extreme Climates will inspect gas lines, test the ignition system, and check the overall components for wear and tear. We perform a thorough cleaning and, for vented gas logs, the chimney is inspected and swept to ensure proper airflow.
Common signs that your gas fireplace needs maintenance include persistent pilot light issues, excessive soot buildup, the fireplace turning on and off randomly, or difficulty starting. Other signs include inconsistent or weak flames and strange noises.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a professional inspection to diagnose and fix the problem.
If you smell gas, or notice a rotten egg smell, this could be a dangerous sign of a gas leak. Do not operate any electrical switches or light a match. Immediately evacuate the area, and call 911 or your gas company from a safe location.
Cleaning a gas fireplace is important for safety, efficiency and an extended lifespan. Regular cleaning prevents potential hazards, such as carbon monoxide buildup, by clearing debris from the vent and burner. It also ensures the fireplace operates efficiently, providing better heating and extending its lifespan, and it helps to maintains your gas fireplace’s appearance by removing soot and dirt.
The gas fireplace technicians at Extreme Climates thoroughly vacuum and brush the interior of the unit to remove any dust or debris that can compromise safety and efficiency. We remove any soot buildup and clean the burner to ensure proper combustion, improve heat output, and guard against safety issues. We also use specialized techniques and products to clean the glass on your gas fireplace, which can develop a cloudy residue.
While gas fireplaces don’t produce the same amount of soot as wood fireplaces, any soot buildup is a sign of a problem that needs professional attention for safety and efficiency reasons. Soot buildup typically indicates an issue with incomplete combustion caused by problems like clogged burner ports, poor airflow, or incorrect log placement.
Common causes for a gas fireplace that won’t light include fuel supply problems, a bad wall switch, a faulty flame sensor, or a pilot light that is out. It could also be a tripped circuit breaker or a blocked vent.
If your gas fireplace isn’t turning on when you flip the wall switch, start by checking simple things first. Ensure that the gas valve is on, the circuit breaker hasn’t been tripped, and the exterior vent cap isn’t blocked by a nest or debris. If the pilot light is out, you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If none of these solutions resolve the problem, you may need to clean the fireplace or a contact a professional.
Gas Fireplace Maintenance & Repair Services in Yorktown, Hampton, Newport News, and Surrounding Communities
To schedule a professional gas fireplace inspection, maintenance or repairs in Hampton, Williamsburg, Gloucester, Yorktown, Newport News or anywhere in Hampton Roads, call Extreme Climates at (757) 833-0058, or send us a message.