Gas fireplaces have become quite the popular home feature due to their high efficiency levels and easy operations. And it doesn’t hurt that they also look great and add value to your home too.

With a gas fireplace you get all the warmth and glow that you would from a traditional wood fireplace but without the mess and need for cutting and storing wood. There’s no denying the advantages of having a gas fireplace are many. …but just like any home appliance, issues can arise. Addressing these issues is important because if left unchecked they can become costly and dangerous.

At Dunrite Chimney we are experts in troubleshooting and repairing chimney and fireplace problems. Our team is highly experienced and highly trained to handle whatever problems your chimney throws at you. Give us a call (or reach out online) with your chimney and fireplace issues today. We’re here to help.

Gas Fireplace Problem: Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

The pilot light is a necessary little flame that needs to constantly be lit so that when you want your fireplace on, it can ignite the gas and send those beautiful flames into your fireplace. Sometimes, however, this little light can go out. If you are having problems lighting your fireplace the first thing to do is check your pilot light and make sure it is burning.

What’s the solution?

blue flames on a black backgroundFirst, check for any drafts in and around the fireplace and pilot light that may be blowing the flame out. Once you have detected the source of the draft, make sure that doors, windows, or airways are not pushing air directly toward your pilot light.

Once you have determined that drafts are no longer an issue check the thermocouple and make sure that it is secure and cleaned. This component acts as a safety valve for your gas supply. It reads temperatures and determines whether or not things are safe for a gas supply and flame. If it malfunctions or isn’t able to maintain an accurate reading it will not allow the gas to flow to the flame.

If you do both of these things and the problem persists, it may be time to replace your thermocouple. Our techs at Dunrite Chimney are the best when it comes to figuring out the best components for your particular fireplace and then getting them installed for you.

Gas Fireplace Problem: Flames Are Weak or Discolored

Weak flames mean that gas is not fueling the fire at the rate that it should. A discolored flame means that something other than gas is burning. If you notice either of these things there are some easy things you can do.

What’s the solution?

The easiest place to start is to simply clean the burner ports with a soft brush or compressed air. This removes any debris that might have built up and is blocking the gas from supplying the flames. 

After the burner ports are clean, check and make sure the air intake is unobstructed. If you find that, after cleaning and removing obstructions, the flames remain weak, irregular, or discolored, give us a call. We will inspect the gas pressure and regulator, then make sure that your fireplace gets back to working well.

Gas Fireplace Problem: The Remote Isn’t Working

Many gas fireplaces are controlled with a remote control. This makes it easy to light a fire without having to physically be at the fireplace. If your remote control malfunctions, don’t simply count this convenience as lost. You may be able to save it with next to no effort or cost.

What’s the solution?

Begin by replacing the batteries in the remote control. You would be shocked with how many times our techs have arrived at someone’s home to provide our superior professional help – only to immediately realize that all that was needed was new batteries in the remote control.

If you know the batteries are new and good and the remote still doesn’t work, check the receiver and transmitter for loose connections, damaged wiring, or obstructions that would keep it from communicating. If you’re unable to identify and fix the issue, contact a Dunrite Chimney technician and we will get things working like they should.

Gas Fireplace Problem: You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Exposure

a round white carbon monoxide detectorThis problem is a little different. As the gas in your fireplace burns, carbon monoxide is produced. This colorless, odorless gas can be deadly in high concentrations. Each year in the United States more than 100,000 people visit the hospital because of exposure to this gas. Of those 100,000 people at least 400 people will die.

What’s the solution?

When your fireplace malfunctions, it runs the risk of not venting out the carbon monoxide. Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector in the room so that you can be alerted should this gas rise to dangerous levels.

In addition, regular maintenance and yearly chimney inspections go a long way to keeping carbon monoxide from becoming an issue. Our techs at Dunrite Chimney are able to identify possible problems before they become dangerous. 

Ready to Request Your Appointment?

Problems are most easily dealt with in their early stages. Regular inspections, cleaning, and maintenance are key to keeping everything working as it should. Call us at Dunrite Chimney today to schedule. One of our techs would be happy to take care of your fireplace and chimney, so you can enjoy all your fireplace has to offer.

Dial 631-353-0004 or book online with us now.