You went to turn on your convenient and efficient gas fireplace, only to be left with no flames…or a pilot light that keeps going off…or a general lack of heat. If you’re wondering why your gas fireplace isn’t working, the answer might be a simple fix or a more involved gas fireplace repair.
The good news for those in Wynnewood, Wayne, Springfield, Haverford, and the Main Line area is that we can assist with all of your fireplace and chimney repair needs. Reach out by phone or book your appointment online today.
Why Isn’t My Gas Fireplace Turning On?
First things first, check the batteries in your gas fireplace remote. Sometimes the fix is as simple as a quick replacement. If that’s definitely not the problem, you could be experiencing one of the following issues:
- There’s an issue with your gas supply. The gas supply valve might be turned off, restricting gas flow to the fireplace, or a blockage in the gas line could be preventing the proper flow of gas. A leak or faulty regulator might also trigger safety mechanisms that shut off the gas supply. Or maybe this issue lies with the gas company itself.
- There’s an electrical issue. The ignition system may not have power due to a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse, or it could be that faulty wiring or loose electrical connections are causing problems.
- Some components are loose or faulty. The thermocouple, which detects heat and keeps the gas valve open, may be worn or malfunctioning. In addition, the pilot light assembly might be clogged with dirt or debris, preventing it from staying lit.
- Your room is too drafty. Downdrafts or poor ventilation near the fireplace could blow out the pilot light, keeping you from getting a fire going.
- The safety mechanisms are engaged. Many modern gas fireplaces have safety features, like oxygen depletion sensors or flame sensors, that shut down the system if they detect unsafe conditions. It could be your fireplace is warning you of something, or maybe the sensor is simply clogged or malfunctioning.
If you’ve done some basic troubleshooting and checks, and your system still won’t perform, it’s time to give us a call. When it comes to gas fireplace repair and maintenance, there really isn’t too much you should attempt to handle yourself. Mistakes and mishaps can lead to further breakdowns, inefficiency, or – worse – gas or carbon monoxide leaks.
Call us from the start for the peace of mind you deserve.
Why Isn’t My Gas Fireplace Giving Off Much Heat?
One of the biggest draws of a gas fireplace is how efficiently it can heat your space, so if yours isn’t doing that, it can invite some frustration. There are many possible reasons behind this. It could be something simple, like a setting issue, or it could be something more complex, like a faulty pilot assembly or a clogged up flue.
Whatever the case, it can be hard to know where the issue lies until we have a good look at the system. Call us out for a chimney inspection, so we can find the issue, then get it promptly addressed.
What Should I Do if My Gas Fireplace Smells?
First things first, what kind of smell are we talking about? Because any type of sulfur or rotten egg smell should put you on full alert, as this is indicative of a gas leak. Immediately turn off the gas, leave the area, then call in emergency services, as well as notify your gas company.
If the smell is more of a burnt plastic smell, there’s probably less need to worry. In these cases, it’s usually dust or debris burning off logs that haven’t been used in awhile. It should go away quickly, but if it doesn’t, your logs may need a more thorough cleaning or even a replacement.
Have you scheduled a sweeping yet? It could be that gases are building up and triggering smells because your flue is blocked. In addition, you could have animals, wet leaves, or outside debris lodged in the venting system, all of which can invite pests and odors.
Whatever the case, oftentimes gas fireplace odors indicate something is wrong, so don’t ignore them. If you need further help, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts.
Call Today for Quality Chimney & Fireplace Services
Whatever your fireplace needs are, Lou Curley and his team are here to help. Reach out online or give us a call today.