A fireplace is a thing of beauty, but it also takes a lot of maintenance, especially in winter months with daily usage. If you are considering a gas fireplace then you may be pleasantly surprised at how they differ from wood burning fireplaces. Gas fireplaces require significantly less daily upkeep, eliminating the need to clean out ashes and soot. Additionally, gas fireplaces can be turned on and off with the simple flip of a switch, providing instant warmth and ambiance. They also offer a cleaner burn, reducing the buildup of creosote and the risk of chimney fires.
Low Maintenance
The good news is that gas fireplaces have a well-earned reputation of being easy to maintain when compared with wood burning fireplaces. However, that doesn’t mean you can ignore your investment year after year. There are a few things that should be considered.
Gas fireplaces do not produce soot, making daily maintenance as easy as it gets. No bending over the fireplace removing ash and debris after each use. You get the warm glow of a fireplace with none of the mess. However, a yearly inspection should be a priority.
A technician will perform a safety check which will include cleaning, checking for proper ventilation and gas leaks such as carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is an odorless/colorless gas that causes illness and in the worst cases death. Having an annual inspection ensures that your fireplace is working correctly and that these hidden dangers aren’t cropping up in your home.
When to call a professional
Although gas fireplaces are low maintenance that doesn’t mean they are “no maintenance.” Every fireplace should be inspected regularly and there are specific times when the best decision for you and for your chimney, is to call a professional.
- If there is visible dirt or debris build up - as time goes by it is common for pet hair, dirt, and other debris to build up inside your fireplace, when this happens the best course of action is to call for a professional cleaning and inspection.
- If you notice broken parts - This can happen during the normal wear and tear of use, but getting it taken care of as soon as possible is a necessary step to keeping you and your family safe. Paying close attention to any broken or missing parts can prevent a small issue from becoming a hazard.
- If you suspect a blockage – Smoke pouring into the house instead of up the chimney is a sure sign that there could be a blockage in your chimney. Dead leaves, sticks and debris can get stuck in your chimney over time also animals like birds, squirrels and bats seem to think that chimneys are a great place to build their nests. Unfortunately, this can become a hazard for you and your family as poor ventilation can cause the build-up of harmful gases.
Gas fireplaces are beautiful and easy to maintain, but that doesn’t mean they can be neglected. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure they operate efficiently and safely.
A yearly inspection will guarantee that your fireplace and chimney serve your family for many years to come. During these inspections, potential issues can be identified and resolved before they become major problems, ensuring peace of mind.
Call Hudson Valley Chimney Inc. at (845) 471-1071 if you have any questions about the service or use of your fireplace/chimney, or contact us here for inspections, masonry work, repairs, and any other needs you may have. Our team of experienced professionals is ready to help you maintain the beauty and functionality of your gas fireplace.
