Winter is on the horizon–that means curling up in front of the fireplace on a chilly evening. A roaring fire adds beauty and charm to your home during the winter season, and it’s important to make sure you are properly prepared before enjoying those winter fires. Many people believe that gas fireplaces are far more convenient than the traditional wood-burning options–they create far less mess, which means less maintenance, right? Not exactly. Even though they create a less noticeable mess, it is still incredibly important to have your gas fireplace maintained annually every fall. There are many factors that could create a dangerous situation for you and your family if not caught in a timely manner. Take a look at some of the potential risks of not having your gas fireplace properly maintained:
1. Blockages. Dust, dirt, insects, rodent nests, deteriorating ceramic logs–all of these can cause major clogs. Don’t be fooled into thinking that your chimney doesn’t need inspecting because there is no creosote buildup from a gas fireplace. These other clogs can cause your fireplace to burn inefficiently and put you at risk for dangerous ventilation problems that can result in exposure to carbon monoxide.
2. Moisture. Moisture can enter the chimney system through cracks, and this can cause serious damage to the flue. Flue tiles can become warped and break off, falling into the hearth. This indicates the need to repair or replace the flue lining.
3. Malfunctions. There is a whole host of equipment in your gas fireplace that needs to be functioning properly in order for the entire system to work safely and efficiently. Wire connections get loose, gaskets erode, and thermopile and thermocouple wear down and get dirty. Leaks can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, and explosions.
Metro Garage Door – Contact us for your Fireplacement Maintenance in Douglasville, GA
A gas fireplace is a beautiful addition to your home, and it certainly does burn cleaner than a wood-burning option. However, it is imperative to remember to schedule annual fall maintenance for your gas fireplace every year. This will ensure that your family is safe and your fireplace is working efficiently throughout the winter. Please feel free to contact us to learn more about keeping your gas fireplace in ideal working order.