Skip the plumbers. Call a fireplace company ask for a cleaning service and mention you also want an inspection while you're at it. It'll be around $100 or so per unit and take about 30 min. They're all gas line certified. Normally they don't inspect the gas lines but they will if you ask.
If you notice an electrical burning smell or an odor of burning gas, turn off your fireplace, open the doors and windows and call for emergency repairs.
The average cost to inspect a gas fireplace is $125, but depending on your location and the fireplace's age and condition, it can range from $75 to $250. There's nothing better than lighting a toasty fire in the middle of winter in your home's fireplace.
One of the most common problems faced by homeowners with gas fireplaces is the pilot light going out or not staying lit. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner, which produces the heat for your fireplace — if the pilot light goes out, your fireplace won't work.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
For safety reasons, every home should have at least one CO detector located in rooms near gas appliances, including fireplaces. On a related note, your home should also have smoke detectors. Be sure to check and replace the batteries or they won't work!
Gas Fireplaces and Costs
However, because of the vent, you will need an annual inspection which costs around $75-$100. If you want a thorough cleaning at the same time the cost could be closer to $150-$175. Also consider the price of propane gas and LP with this option.
With a gas fireplace comes regular maintenance, part of which is regular inspections. It is generally recommended that your gas fireplace be inspected by a professional once per year, preferably before the start of the heating season, and you can inspect it yourself in between to keep an eye out for potential issues.
Call a professional chimney sweep to inspect your drafty fireplace and give you peace of mind it is safe to use.
The initial and foremost guideline of any gas fireplace system is to have it inspected every year. With professional chimney companies, you can usually have your annual chimney cleaning and gas inspection scheduled at the same time. Matter of fact, your whole system should be inspected annually, top to bottom.
Many homeowners are already aware of the fact that gas fireplaces are a safer home heating option than their wood-burning counterparts. While gas fireplaces do not produce smoke, sparks, or soot, there are still some basic precautions every homeowner should take to protect their family.
Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) build-up.
An open window can help to vent the gas, and this is especially important in newer homes that were likely built with airtight construction techniques. This means that gases have no way to escape, including CO.
Having a carbon monoxide detector near your gas fireplace lets you quickly detect leaks and take appropriate action to prevent harm.
Yes, gas fireplaces are one potential cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. While there are many potential sources of such exposure—including certain appliances and devices, motor vehicles, and wood stoves—gas fireplaces are a common culprit.
But in general, an efficiently running modern gas fire kept clear of dust and debris should hit or exceed that 10 to 15-year mark before showing signs of wear. Older or cheaper models may start to struggle after 7–8 years. Regular servicing and maintenance will be essential to maximising lifespan potential.
First, try raising the temperature setting to see if your fireplace ignites. If it still doesn't ignite, the thermocouple may need to be tightened or readjusted. Make sure it is screwed on tight and in the proper position.
Yes, plumbers can help you with anything related to propane or gas. They may specialize in drains or anything related to water, but they often are both qualified and experienced enough to install and repair gas fireplaces professionally.
It is dangerous to use your fireplace without first getting a chimney inspection, especially for that first time in winter. Every year there are thousands of home fires that occur as a direct result of lighting a fire when there is an unseen blockage in the chimney.