Springfield, PA Gas Fireplace Service: Trust Lou Curley’s Chimney Service
Pennsylvania’s colder months can be brutal – but not when you have a well-maintained gas fireplace to keep you warm and cozy. That’s why annual gas fireplace service is such an important investment. At Lou Curley’s Chimney Service, we specialize in comprehensive gas fireplace maintenance, repair, and inspections near Springfield, PA. Our certified technicians bring years of experience, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer satisfaction to every job – reach out today.
Why Isn’t My Gas Pilot Light Working?
If your gas pilot light isn’t working, there are usually some common culprits. It could be:
- Thermocouple Issues: The thermocouple is a safety device that senses whether the pilot light is on. If it’s faulty, dirty, or misaligned, it may shut off the gas supply even if the pilot is lit. A professional will need to clean or replace the thermocouple, or adjust its position so it properly touches the pilot flame.
- Clogged Pilot Orifice: Dirt, dust, or carbon buildup can block the small opening where the gas exits to create the pilot flame. If you’re seeing a weak flame – or no flame – this could be why. Clear out the orifice carefully with a small wire or have a pro clean it.
- Gas Supply Problems: There may be an issue with your gas line or the gas valve might be partially closed. Ensure the gas valve is fully open. And if you’re unsure or if you smell gas, contact your gas provider or emergency services immediately.
- Faulty Gas Control Valve: The control valve itself could be malfunctioning and not releasing gas to the pilot light. This is often the case when the pilot won’t light at all,even after multiple tries and checks. If the valve is bad, it needs to be replaced by a licensed technician.
- Drafts or Airflow Issues: Strong drafts, particularly in fireplaces, can blow out the pilot light. If the pilot goes out shortly after lighting, especially during windy conditions, see if there are places where your chimney may be letting drafts in.
What Are the Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is extremely dangerous because it interferes with the body’s ability to transport oxygen. CO is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas, and it’s often called the “silent killer” because it’s virtually undetectable without proper detectors installed throughout the home.
What kind of damage can carbon monoxide cause?
- Oxygen deprivation for vital organs. CO binds to hemoglobin in the blood more readily than oxygen does – this prevents oxygen from being delivered to vital organs.
- Neurological damage. Short-term exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and more. And long-term exposure may result in permanent brain damage or cognitive dysfunction.
- Loss of consciousness. In high concentrations, CO exposure can quickly cause unconsciousness, making it impossible for a person to escape or call for help.
- Death. CO poisoning can be fatal within minutes at high levels. According to the CDC, over 400 people die each year in the U.S. from accidental CO poisoning.
Infants, elderly people, and individuals with heart or respiratory conditions are especially vulnerable when exposed to carbon monoxide.
How can you protect yourself from CO poisoning?
- Watch for symptoms, like headaches, nausea, fatigue, confusion, etc.
- Install CO detectors throughout your home and near bedrooms and fuel-burning appliances.
- Maintain appliances like furnaces, fireplaces, and gas stoves, investing in professional inspections on an annual basis.
- Never run a vehicle or generator in a closed garage or near windows/vents.
Can I Burn Wood Logs in My Gas Fireplace?
No, you should not burn wood logs in a gas fireplace. It may seem like using your gas fireplace would be fine – it’s obviously equipped to handle high heat, and how much more damage can wood fires cause?
Here are the issues you could face:
- Fire Hazards: Gas fireplaces aren’t built to handle the intense heat, ash, and creosote from real wood. This can cause damage or even start a fire.
- Chimney & Venting Issues: Many gas fireplaces are direct-vent or ventless, meaning they don’t have a flue system designed to exhaust wood smoke and particulates.
- Damage to Components: The gas burner, valves, and logs can be damaged or blocked by ash and embers.
- Voided Warranty or Code Violations: Burning wood in a gas-only unit may void your warranty and violate local building codes.
Instead, stick to your ceramic gas logs, and if they’re dirty or showing signs of damage, ask your chimney sweep about having them cleaned or replaced.
Trust Lou Curley With Your Gas Fireplace
Don’t leave the safety and performance of your gas fireplace to chance. Whether you need a seasonal inspection, a quick repair, or full cleaning service, the team at Lou Curley’s Chimney Service is here to help. We’re proud to serve Springfield homeowners with dependable, professional fireplace services near you. Contact us today to schedule your gas fireplace service.
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