How Do You Repair a Gas Fireplace? What do You need to Know?
Gas fireplaces are a great way to add warmth and comfort to your home without the mess of wood. They’re also very convenient and easy to use. However, like any home appliance, a gas fireplace is subject to wear and tear from regular use. If your gas fireplace is no longer working as it should, it’s time for some repairs.
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Repairing a Gas Fireplace: What You Need to Know
When your fireplace won’t stay on or it flickers off when you try to turn it on, there are a few things you can do before calling a service professional. These tips are designed to help you identify problems and point your gas fireplace technician in the right direction so they can get your unit up and running quickly.
First, check your breaker box for any tripped breakers that may be causing the problem. If you find one that’s tripped, turn it off and reset it again to see if it resolves the issue.
Next, check your thermostat settings to make sure they’re set properly. If your heater is turning on and off, adjust the temperature setting a little higher than your current room temperature to see if that solves the problem.
Another problem that may cause your fireplace to switch on and off is a lack of proper gas pressure. This can occur if the burners are clogged with dirt or if there’s too much moisture in the pipes. You can clean the burners or replace them to restore proper gas flow.
Finally, if the flame in your fireplace flickers on and off, this could be due to a malfunction of the thermocouple or thermopile. These metal safety sensors control gas flow and open the fireplace’s gas valve.
The pilot light, a blue flame that stays ablaze when the fireplace is turned on, is another major culprit. If it goes out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it and secure the vent cap to stop drafts from putting it out.
Foul Odors: If your gas fireplace is emitting a rotten egg odor, this could indicate a gas leak. If the odor is persistent and you can’t seem to get your fireplace to work, it’s best to call a professional for an inspection and to fix the problem as soon as possible.
Soot: If your gas fireplace’s soot is white, it’s a sign that it needs to be cleaned. Soot is a result of normal combustion and can be caused by a number of factors, including a lack of maintenance and excessive use.
It can also be a sign of water damage, which should be fixed immediately. This could be caused by a leaking pipe, and it can pose a serious health hazard for your family.
Other common issues that require professional attention include a defective pilot light, a loose connection, or a bad module in an electric ignition unit. These repairs can cost you anywhere from $100 to $150 on average, so it’s worth calling a fireplace service professional for help.