For Gas Fireplace Maintenance, Edmonton Residents Can Count on Fireplaces by Weiss-Johnson
Edmonton homeowners are increasingly embracing the convenience and efficiency of gas fireplaces, transitioning away from wood-burning appliances. Whether driven by environmental concerns or ease of use, gas fireplaces are solidifying their position as a preferred heating method. However, a crucial point to remember is that even gas fireplaces require regular maintenance for optimal performance and safety.
Fireplaces by Weiss-Johnson is licensed, bonded, and services most brands of gas fireplaces. We’re fully equipped to fix your gas fireplace if it does not light, does not stay lit, has a strange flame, or does not work as well as it should. On top of that, we offer a wide range of fireplace services to ensure that your fireplace is working at peak levels all year long.
Take charge and make sure your gas fireplace is getting the care and maintenance it needs by scheduling an appointment with Fireplaces by Weiss-Johnson. You can book an appointment today by calling 780-439-2876 or reaching out to us online.
What Are the Benefits of Fueling With Gas?
Is gas really a better fueling option than wood or electricity? Truthfully, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to home heating, and what’s best actually depends on the needs and capabilities of individual households. Gas might be a terrific option for you, but your neighbor might be better off with a wood-burning fireplace.
If you are interested in making the switch to gas, here are a few benefits:
- It is easier to use. This may come as a shock, but wood-burning fireplaces require wood. If you don’t like the prospect of chopping wood or you’re short on space to store said wood, a gas fireplace is a great alternative. You can enjoy a roaring fire with the simple flip of a switch.
- More heat control. With gas, you get consistent heat that keeps your entire room nice and toasty. You don’t have to worry about fussing with the fire to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Save money on your heating bill. Gas fireplaces are very efficient at converting fuel into heat, which means you’ll get more warmth for your dollar. They often cost less to operate than traditional wood-burning fireplaces.
- A better option for the environment. Gas fireplaces burn cleaner than wood, so you’ll have fewer emissions and particulates in your home, making them a more eco-friendly choice.
- Lower fire risk. When you introduce fire to a home, it comes with a very real set of dangers. One of the biggest benefits of gas fireplaces is that they eliminate the risk of flying sparks or embers which make them a safer option for homes with children or pets.
- More options for placement. Gas fireplaces come in all sorts of styles, from traditional to modern, to complement any décor. They can even be installed in places where a wood-burning fireplace wouldn’t work, like on upper floors or in smaller rooms.
- Warmth even when the lights go out. Many gas fireplaces can function without electricity, meaning you will always have a reliable source of heat during power outages.
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Gas Fireplace?
Gas fireplace installation costs can fluctuate depending on a variety of factors. The type of fireplace itself, the complexity of putting it in, and your home’s specific needs all play a role. For instance, is this going into a new build or an existing house? Does it require venting or a new gas line? What kind of unit are you looking for – vented versus vent-free, traditional versus modern? Each of these choices can significantly impact the price tag.
In addition to that, there might be permit fees, professional installation labor, and potential modifications to your home’s structure or interior to keep in mind. While the final cost can vary greatly, a gas fireplace can definitely add to your home’s comfort and overall value.
Do Gas Fireplaces Require a Chimney?
Gas fireplaces don’t always require a traditional chimney. Unlike wood-burning fireplaces that produce smoke and require a chimney for proper venting, gas fireplaces burn much cleaner and can often be vented directly through an exterior wall or roof.
Direct vent gas fireplaces are a popular option that utilizes a double-walled pipe system. This system draws in outside air for combustion purposes while simultaneously expelling exhaust gases. This eliminates the need for a traditional chimney while maintaining safety and efficiency.
If you’re considering a gas fireplace and are unsure about venting options, the team at Fireplaces by Weiss-Johnson is happy to help. We can assess your specific situation and recommend the best venting solution for your needs. Give us a call today at 780-439-2876.
What Does Gas Fireplace Maintenance Look Like?
Having a gas fireplace adds warmth and ambiance to your home, but for it to function safely and efficiently, regular maintenance is key. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to regular maintenance:
- Yearly checkup by a professional. Schedule an annual inspection by a certified chimney technician. They’ll check for gas leaks, proper venting, and make sure the ignition system and burners are working properly.
- Do your part with cleaning. The glass door needs regular cleaning to remove soot and residue. Use a specialty fireplace glass cleaner for best results. Inside the fireplace, dust and clean the logs, rocks, and burner with a soft brush or vacuum. Don’t forget to check the venting system for any blockages that might limit airflow.
- Pay attention to the pilot light. Keep an eye on your pilot light. It should burn with a steady blue flame. If it’s yellow or flickering, there could be an issue with the gas supply or the pilot light assembly. In such cases, it’s best to call Fireplaces by Weiss-Johnson.
- Beware of carbon monoxide. Make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors installed and working properly near your fireplace. They provide an extra layer of safety by monitoring for dangerous gas emissions.
How Often Should I Service My Gas Fireplace?
To keep your home safe and toasty all year long, it’s a good idea to get your gas fireplace serviced by a professional at least once a year. Think of it like taking your car in for an oil change – it’s preventive care that keeps things running smoothly.
This annual maintenance is more than just a dusting as the technician will give your fireplace a thorough once-over to check for leaks, remove any soot or gunk that could cause problems, and make sure everything is venting correctly. Regular maintenance helps catch small issues before they turn into bigger and more expensive ones, so you can enjoy worry-free fires all season.
What Are the Signs That My Gas Fireplace Needs Maintenance?
Regular maintenance of your gas fireplace is important but if you notice any of the following in between your yearly appointments, give us a call right away:
- Unusual odors. A sulfur or rotten egg smell could signify a potential gas leak, which demands immediate action. Evacuate the area and call 911 or your local gas company. While less critical, a burning odor might indicate a dust or debris buildup within the system. Your regular scheduled maintenance should address this issue.
- Odd noises. Grinding or squealing sounds could point to issues with the blower or fan, while popping or rumbling may suggest problems with the burner or other components.
- Soot or black stains. Notice dark streaks on the glass or surrounding area? It’s likely soot which indicates incomplete combustion or burner malfunctions.
- Not warming as effectively. This could be due to blockages, burner issues, or other problems affecting efficiency.
- The flames aren’t the right color. Healthy flames should be blue. Yellow or orange flames suggest incomplete combustion and you should call us for an inspection to make sure everything is in working order.
- Delayed ignition or failure to ignite. This could be caused by problems with the pilot light, igniter, or gas supply.
- The carbon monoxide alarm is going off. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas that can be fatal so this is a serious situation and requires immediate professional attention. Evacuate your home and call emergency services.
How Often Should I Replace the Batteries in My Gas Fireplace Remote Control?
To ensure your gas fireplace remote control functions smoothly whenever you need it, consider replacing the batteries once a year, or more frequently if you use the fireplace often. Most remotes use standard batteries like AA or AAA. Keeping fresh batteries in the remote allows for reliable ignition and adjustment of the fireplace flames whenever you need them.
For the most up-to-date information on battery type and replacement intervals specific to your remote, always consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
What Should I Do if My Gas Fireplace Won’t Ignite?
We’ve all been there: you reach for the remote to turn on your cozy gas fireplace, but nothing happens. It can be incredibly frustrating! Before calling a professional, there are a few quick troubleshooting steps you can try to get your fireplace back up and running:
First, check the basics: is your gas supply turned on? Is the gas valve at the fireplace open? If so, look for the pilot light – a small flame that should be burning continuously. If it’s out, consult your fireplace’s manual for relighting instructions.
Next, try igniting the fireplace with the remote or wall switch. Listen for a clicking sound – that’s the igniter trying to spark the pilot light. If there’s no sound, the igniter might be faulty and may require replacement. The thermocouple or thermopile is crucial – it senses the pilot light’s heat and sends a signal to open the gas valve. If this component is dirty or damaged, it may need cleaning or replacing.
Finally, make sure the fireplace’s burner area is clear of any debris that could block the gas flow. Also, ensure the remote or switch has fresh batteries. Some fireplaces have a reset button for the control module – try that if the above steps don’t work.
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting tips and your gas fireplace remains stubborn, don’t hesitate to contact Fireplaces by Weiss-Johnson. Our certified chimney technicians can diagnose the problem safely and get your fireplace glowing again in no time.
What Should I Do if I Smell Gas Near My Fireplace?
Your safety is our top priority. If you ever suspect a gas leak near your fireplace, here’s what to do:
First, stay calm but act quickly. Eliminate any flames or sources of ignition like stovetops and lighters. Don’t use electronics, or appliances, or even turn on light switches, as a spark could ignite the gas. Quickly create airflow by opening all windows and doors to let the gas escape.
Evacuate everyone from the house and once you’re safely outside, call your local gas company’s emergency number, or dial 911 to report the leak. The most important thing is to get everyone out and call for professional help. Do not go back inside until a qualified technician has inspected the fireplace and gas lines, and declared it safe to re-enter.
After the emergency has been handled, remember the importance of preventive measures and schedule your annual appointment. Regular maintenance and a yearly inspection of your fireplace and gas lines can help prevent gas leaks and other potential hazards before they happen.
Keep Your Home Safe – Don’t Forget Your Annual Gas Fireplace Maintenance
Don’t let a minor issue with your gas fireplace turn into a major inconvenience. For safe, efficient, and enjoyable use of your fireplace all year round, schedule a professional gas fireplace maintenance appointment with Fireplaces by Weiss-Johnson today. We’ll ensure your fireplace is operating at its peak performance, ready to keep you warm and comfortable for years to come. Give us a call now at 780-439-2876 or get in touch with our team online.
Being in business as long as we have means we can handle every fireplace, stove, and insert installation – you can always count on our services to be ptofessional and thorough.