For Chimney Sweep Services Near You in Waxhaw, Trust Owens Chimney Systems
If your gas fireplace isn’t working like it used to, or if you’re due for a chimney inspection, call on Owens Chimney Systems. We offer expert gas fireplace service and repair services to homeowners near Waxhaw, NC and the surrounding areas. From routine maintenance and safety inspections to fireplace repairs and troubleshooting, our certified technicians are trained to handle it all. Call or book online today.
Do Gas Fireplaces Need Chimney Sweepings?
Yes – even though gas fireplaces burn cleaner than wood-burning ones, they still require annual inspections and cleanings to ensure both optimal performance and heightened safety.
What can happens if you skip this maintenance?
- You could experience blockages in the vent. Gas fireplaces often use direct vent or B-vent systems, which can become partially blocked by dust, pet hair, bird nests, outside debris, etc. A blocked vent can lead to poor drafting or, worse, carbon monoxide backing up into your home.
- Soot and harmful residue could build up. While gas produces less soot than wood, it’s not completely residue-free. Yellow flames or improper combustion can result in the buildup of carbon and debris in the firebox or flue…which can ultimately lead to poor performance and damage.
- Components can experience wear and tear. A full service includes checking thermopile and thermocouple sensors, pilot light and ignition systems, glass conditions, gaskets and seals and more. Neglected parts can cause ignition problems, overheating, or efficiency loss.
- You could be at risk for gas leaks or carbon monoxide exposure. A qualified technician can check for gas leaks or improper venting, both of which pose serious safety hazards if unnoticed.
- You may void your warranty or cause issues with home insurance coverage. Many manufacturers require annual servicing by a professional to maintain warranty coverage. Likewise, your homeowner’s insurance is less likely to cover damage if there isn’t proof of regular maintenance.
Can I Burn Wood Logs in My Gas Fireplace?
Definitely not. While it might seem like a convenient idea, you should only burn the fuel designed for your system – whether that’s wood, gas, pellets, etc. Burning real wood in a gas fireplace is extremely dangerous and can cause serious damage to your system.
What’s the big deal? Gas fireplaces are designed specifically for gas logs or burners. The firebox, venting system, and chimney (if there is one) are not built to withstand the intense heat, ash, or creosote that comes from burning wood. You’d end up experiencing lots of damage, making your system unsafe for use until a professional gets in and checks things out. You may also void your warranty.
Why Won’t My Gas Fireplace Pilot Light Stay On?
If your gas fireplace pilot light won’t stay lit, it usually points to a problem with one or more key components in the ignition system. Here are the most likely reasons why:
- Faulty Thermocouple or Thermopile: These safety components detect heat from the pilot flame and keep the gas valve open.
- Dirty Pilot Orifice: Dust, spider webs, or soot can block the small opening where gas exits to feed the pilot flame.
- Drafts or Poor Venting: Strong air drafts, downdrafts from the chimney, or improperly installed venting can blow out the pilot light or prevent the flame from stabilizing.
- Faulty Gas Valve: The gas control valve might be defective and unable to keep the flow of gas steady to the pilot.
- Low Gas Pressure or Gas Supply Issues: If your gas line has low pressure or there’s an issue with the supply (especially after maintenance or utility work), your pilot flame may be too weak to stay lit.
If your pilot light keeps going out, it’s usually a safety feature doing its job—signaling that something needs attention. An annual fireplace inspection and cleaning can help prevent this issue and keep your system running reliably.