by Linda Lair

Created on: October 06, 2010

Basic Remedies To Rectify A Problem On Your Gas Fireplace

Sitting in front of the fireplace may be the oldest pleasures in the world. But the innovations that technology has brought into this tradition have immensely advanced and we need to keep up with it. Now, with a gas fireplace, heating up can be as simple as turning it on or off.

 Or is it? For some people, the mechanisms of a

gas fireplace or a gas insert can be a little overwhelming; all the more if something wrong actually happens to it. And because we all have to make safety our primary concern, it’s best not to ignore a gas fireplace or a gas insert that are malfunctioning. Below are some tips on rectifying some common problems involving a gas fireplace or a gas fireplace insert.

 With a vented gas fireplace, some of the usual causes of unpleasant odors would be not getting enough ventilation. The first thing that you have to confirm is that the damper of your gas fireplace or gas insert should be open. If this does not resolve the problem, most probably it’s because there are some creosote building up on the gas fireplace flue. If this is do, have a professional check up your chimney and have it cleaned.

 If you notice that your gas insert, has some uneven flame, check the holes of the burner. Sometimes the paint used may be clogging the holes; in such cases, use anything pointed that could fit the hole to remove it. It could also be that the gas fittings of your gas insert are not fitted. To check this, take some water with soap and gently pour a small amount on the fittings, if you notice some bubbles that mean that there is a leak and it needs to be tightened. 

 If you think that a gas fireplace and a gas insert do not produce soot, well you are wrong. They do and that’s why they should be vented. If this is causing you too much trouble, especially when the soot is all over the place, your gas fireplace is telling you that it has a vent problem. Always refer to the manuals of your gas fireplace or call a professional to deal with it. However, if your gas insert is a vent free appliance, this should not produce any soot at all. If this happens, you might be having some problems with your gas insert. You can do the basic troubleshooting on the gas insert such as checking the damper for any blockage, or it could be that it’s not open. There could also be an inadequate draft on the gas fireplace.

 If you are having some difficulties in lighting the pilot of your gas fireplace, this could be an indication that your gas supply has been depleted. If this is not the cause, it could be a faulty thermocouple of the gas insert which can be repaired by a professional.

 Whatever the trouble is it is always advisable to check the user manual because they are very specific to the brand and model of the appliances. One good thing to keep in mind is that if you are not confident to do it yourself, always ask for a professional help and assistance. 

Learn more about this author, Linda Lair.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.