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Gas Fireplace Service & Repair Near You: Bryn Mawr Residents Trust Lou Curley

Is your gas fireplace not performing well? Maybe it’s not providing heat or your pilot light keeps going out? Whatever the issue, our gas fireplace services can help restore it. Whether you need an inspection, a flue sweeping, or a gas fireplace repair, the team at Lou Curley is here to help. If you’re in Bryn Mawr or somewhere nearby, give us a call or book online today.

Do I Need to Schedule Annual Inspections for My Gas Fireplace?

You own a gas fireplace, and you love it. It burns cleaner than wood systems, it lights with the flip of a switch, and best of all – no messy ash piles or wood ash to clean. All those pros must mean annual inspections aren’t a requirement, right? Especially if the unit seems to be working just fine? Well, hold on.

Gas fireplaces – all fireplaces, actually – need annual inspections. There are no exceptions.

Here’s why:

  • Improved Safety: Even though gas fireplaces burn cleaner than wood and produce fewer byproducts, they are still gas-burning appliances – and that means safety is key. An annual inspection helps catch any issues early, ensuring your system is operating safely.
  • Prevent Expensive Repairs: Catching small problems before they turn into big ones can save you money in the long run. During an inspection, a professional might find minor issues like a dirty burner, a worn thermopile, or a clogged vent. These are usually inexpensive to fix, but if ignored, they can lead to larger – and more costly – repairs down the road.
  • Improve Efficiency & Performance: A well-maintained gas fireplace will run more efficiently and produce more consistent heat. If you’ve noticed uneven flames, a weak pilot light, or longer-than-usual start-up times, it could be time for a tune-up.
  • Protect Your Warranty: Many manufacturers require proof of regular maintenance in order to honor the warranty. Skipping your annual inspection could void your coverage – meaning if something major goes wrong, you might be stuck footing the bill.
  • Peace of Mind: A gas fireplace adds comfort and charm to your home, but it’s not worth the risk if it’s not functioning properly. An annual inspection ensures that your fireplace isn’t releasing carbon monoxide, leaking gas, or posing any fire hazards. That kind of peace of mind is well worth the small cost of a yearly service appointment.
original infographic answers the question "Do gas fireplaces need annual inspections and sweepings?" with a "Yes," emphasizing the need for annual *inspections*. It highlights several advantages: enhanced safety through early issue detection, preventing expensive repairs, improved efficiency and performance, maintaining warranty validity, and ensuring peace of mind by mitigating risks like carbon monoxide leaks and fires. The visual design includes speech bubbles containing the question and answer, set against a black background with a silhouette of houses at the bottom.

Gas Fireplace Repair Near Me: Common Gas Fireplace Troubleshooting Tips

1. My gas fireplace won’t turn on.

If your gas fireplace doesn’t turn on, the issue could be as simple as a dead battery in your remote control or wall switch. Replace the batteries and try again. Also, check that the pilot light is lit – if it’s out, your fireplace won’t start. Ensure the gas valve is open and the thermostat is set higher than room temperature. If you’re using a remote control, verify that it’s paired correctly with the receiver.

2. The pilot light keeps going out.

A pilot light that refuses to stay lit is often the result of a dirty or faulty thermocouple or thermopile. These components detect heat and signal the gas valve to stay open. If they’re not functioning properly, the gas will shut off. Try cleaning them gently with a soft cloth. If that doesn’t help, they may need to be replaced.

3. I’m noticing some unusual odors and buildup.

A faint gas smell when the fireplace is first turned on can be normal, but strong or persistent odors are not. Soot buildup on the glass or walls of your fireplace may indicate incomplete combustion, possibly due to dirty burners or poor ventilation. Turn off the unit and schedule an inspection to ensure safe operation.

4. There are clicking noises or delayed ignition.

Some clicking is normal when the fireplace heats up or cools down, but constant clicking or a delay in ignition can point to a problem with the igniter or gas flow. Check the igniter for damage or dirt. If the unit takes more than a few seconds to ignite after you turn it on, call a professional – it could indicate a more serious problem.

5. The fireplace shuts off randomly.

If your fireplace turns off unexpectedly, the issue may be overheating. Most gas fireplaces have built-in safety shut-off systems. Ensure that the vents and air circulation pathways aren’t blocked. Dirty components or low gas pressure may also be culprits.

Always prioritize safety when troubleshooting a gas fireplace. If you’re unsure about what you’re doing, it’s best to call a certified technician. Annual professional maintenance can also help catch issues before they become serious, keeping your fireplace safe and efficient.

Gas Fireplace Servicing: What Should I Do If I Think I Have a Gas Leak?

A suspected gas leak is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Natural gas is flammable and dangerous when leaked into enclosed spaces, so taking quick and correct action is critical for your safety and that of your household. Here’s what you should do if you suspect a gas leak in or around your gas fireplace…

original infographic, titled "FIREPLACE Q&A," addresses the question: "What should I do if I suspect a gas leak?" The answer provides a series of safety steps in bullet points. First, it advises to avoid turning lights or appliances on or off, using cell phones, or lighting candles or matches, as any spark could ignite the gas. Second, it instructs to get everyone out of the house, leaving doors and windows open if safe. Once safely outside, the third step is to call the local gas utility provider or 911 to report the leak, noting that many utility companies have emergency lines. If the gas meter's location is known and accessible, the fourth step is to turn off the gas supply at the main shutoff valve. The fifth instruction is to wait for emergency responders or the utility provider to give the all-clear before re-entering the home. Finally, after the immediate threat has passed, the infographic recommends having the fireplace inspected by their team. The infographic features the question and answer in speech bubbles against a black background, with a silhouette of houses at the bottom.
  • Recognize the Signs of a Gas Leak: Common signs include a strong sulfur or rotten egg smell (natural gas is odorless, but a chemical called mercaptan is added for detection), hissing or whistling sounds near the gas line, visible damage to gas piping, and dead or discolored vegetation near the fireplace’s exterior vent. You may also feel dizzy, nauseous, or lightheaded – signs of potential carbon monoxide exposure.
  • Do Not Use Electrical Devices or Open Flames: Avoid turning lights or appliances on or off, using cell phones, or lighting candles or matches. Any spark could ignite the gas. Don’t even use the fireplace’s remote control or wall switch – just leave everything as it is.
  • Evacuate the Area Immediately: Get everyone out of the house, leaving doors and windows open as you go, if it’s safe to do so.
  • Call for Help from a Safe Location: Once you’re safely outside, call your local gas utility provider or 911 to report the leak. Many utility companies have emergency lines for gas leaks.
  • Shut Off the Gas Supply (If Safe To Do So): If you know where your gas meter is located and it’s safe to access, turn off the gas supply at the main shutoff valve.

Wait for emergency responders or your utility provider to give the all-clear before going back into your home. They will test the air, repair the leak, and ensure the area is safe.

Once the immediate threat has passed, have your fireplace inspected by our team. The source of the leak – whether it’s a damaged gas line, faulty valve, or defective burner – must be repaired before the fireplace can be safely used again.

Seeking a Chimney Company Near You in Media, PA? Lou Curley Can Help

If you’re looking for a reliable chimney company near Broomall, PA, Lou Curley is the name you can trust. With many years of experience under our belt and a commitment to exceptional service, our team will ensure your chimney is running safer and more efficient with every season. Don’t wait for chimney damages to get worse – contact Lou Curley for your next fireplace repair today.