We often ask ourselves is my gas log ignitor working when we try to turn on the fireplace logs. There are several critical areas to check if the gas log ignitor is not working correctly.
There are 2 different ways gas ignitors work. The first way is a standing pilot. Gas is constantly burning a tiny flame that on the side of the burner. When you want to turn on the gas logs, this pilot light keeps the thermocouple (safety for the gas valve) energized. If the flame is working, the gas valve will open. The gas will go across the flame and ignite.
The second type of ignitor uses an ignition voltage spark that will light the gas and provide the safety when you call for heating in the logs. This is a more modern way and uses less gas as there is no standing pilot light burning 24/7.
Don't forget the simple cleaning part of gas logs
Another often overlooked issue with gas logs not working is sand, dirt or debris clogging up the orifice or smothering the flame area. We have said this many times, do not burn other materials in the gas log fireplace. They put off ashes and soot that will clog up the small hole for the pilot light.
This is the main reason gas log manufacturers design in oxygen sensors (O2) for the safety side. If the right amount of oxygen is not available for the blue combustion flame, the system will not operate. It might light for a few moments but the safety will trip it off shortly.
If you are not completely comfortable with working on gas lines and ignitors, stop and call a honest reliable chimney services company. They know exactly what to look for and will most likely have the parts in their vehicles. You can be back up to working gas logs within an hour or so.
When a winter storm warning is issued, it is too late to clean and inspect the fireplace and chimney for safety issues. Your family relies on the heat and safety of your fire place and chimney. Don’t wait until the harsh winter weather is here.
We get a lot of service calls in the coldest weather. Snow, ice and freezing rain create an urgency in folks to prep for an upcoming storm. Unfortunately, even the best chimney service requests struggle to fill the needs of their customers during a winter storm warning.
Chimney sweep company in action
If a winter storm warning is issued, what do I do?
If you have concerns about your fireplace and chimney, call your chimney company anyway. They want to help people even in the most trying times. We have worked customers into an appointment after dinner to keep their heating working. Don’t be shy but also be respectful. Demanding and shouting about service when the temperatures are in the teens is not going to get you fast service.
A safety tip – if smoke or fumes are entering your room or home, put out the fire immediately. Carbon monoxide can build up and it is extremely toxic. Call us for service. Even if it is after hours, our system will take your message and forward it. Just do not use the fireplace until we have checked it out.
One of the most frequently asked questions is how expensive is the wood stove to install. Many different factors will determine how expensive is the wood stove to install now. Let’s go over the various parts of determining the wood stove cost.
First, a honest and reliable chimney service company is key. Not every company is experienced in converting a fireplace into a wood stove or installing a wood stove from scratch. These units are heavy. An experienced chimney company has lifts and tools for taking stoves up stairs or other hard to reach areas.
Also, the manufacturer of the stove is critical. We only use around 4 suppliers. These companies make their stoves in the USA. They are decades old companies with quality materials and craftmanship. You can see the various vendors and stove by following our stove store page here.
Vermont Castings Stove Is Our Favorite Wood Stove to Install
So how expensive is the wood stove to install?
Wood stove cost for the unit only range from $400 up to $3,000. There is definitely a difference in quality for the price. Less expensive stoves use thinner metal that can warp and not withstand the high heat over time. Inside, the fire brick is very critical. This brick absorbs and keeps the heat inside. A cheaper brick will not hold up. It will chip and need replacing as soon as a year. Don’t cut corners on the price of the stove. View it as an investment.
These units are a work of art as well as a heating source. High gloss outside coatings and the overall design make them a center piece in your room. When you look over our stove store page, you will see various units that fit into your space in a beautiful fashion.
For an average installation with no major structural issues or support work, the total installation of a wood stove cost will be around $5,000 for a budget figure. Like we pointed out earlier, the type and quality of the stove is the main determining factor.
Reach out of us on our request service page to discuss the options for your wood stove installation.
