Some homeowners experience a gas fireplace odor that gives them a headache. The first place to check is the vent free gas logs installed. [Disclaimer: we are not medical professionals and this is for information only. Please check with your doctor for symptoms related to gas fireplace odor & headache.] Let’s talk about the ways that the gas can cause issues.
Most of the time, it is related to unburned natural gas or propane escaping from the firebox or burner. The connections to the supply are not tight is the first cause. Use a bubble mixture and spray on the connections to see if any gas is escaping. Bubbles show up here for a leak.
Secondly, incomplete combustion from a gas log set can cause this smell. Check the orifices on the burner system for clogs and obstructions. The openings get stopped up and not enough gas comes out to burn but does escape into the air.
Vent free gas logs not set up correctly can cause odor resulting in headaches. Monessen Stony Creek Vent Free Logs shown here for an example.
When searching for gas fireplace installation near me, ask about the complete combustion test. The orifices are checked for clogs, the logs are properly set and the connections are check for leaks. Therefore, a gas fireplace odor giving a headache is not something to avoid. Our body tells us when it is not happy. This is the way we are created.
Finally, it is a good idea to install a carbon monoxide detector when using a fireplace of any type. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas. It is also heavier than air and will settle low to the ground. Therefore, install the sensor about 2 to 3 feet up from the floor.
Installing black pipe for gas logs is a precision operation. It is also dangerous if not trained in the proper threading and sealing operation needed to maintain a safe operation. This article will cover the reasons why black pipe is critical to successful gas log installations.
Black pipe is the workhorse for heating systems
The installation of this material is so critical, many organizations like the Tennessee Gas Association establish codes and regulations. The pressure delivered in this pipe is large. The gas is flammable. Small leaks can spell big troubles. You do not want to trust just any handy man to install this pipe.
It is expensive, too. The pipe alone is easily over $500 for a typical installation with a meter that is close by. The true cost is in the installation. The pipe goes together in a reverse thread operation. If any changes are needed, most of the pipe has to be unscrewed and redone for the upgrade. Also, unless the length of pipe is exactly in 10 foot sections and nipples or 90 degrees are used, most pipe must be cut to scale. Black pipe for gas logs require special pipe cutters and expertise by the chimney company.
Run away from this type of proposal for gas work...
If a company or individual is willing to install gas lines with flexible connections all over the site or can not provide references with pictures of the work, stop and find another contractor. If it were easy and safe, gas line would be installed using a garden hose. Remember, this is your house and family’s safety here. Only allow qualified companies like Clear Chimney to install, maintain and service your natural gas or propane gas lines. Finally, when your gas fireplace is not working, call us for service.
Depending on the type of burner and logs, the propane gas that a fireplace will use is around a gallon per 100,000 BTUs. Many folks will install a 50,000 BTU burner with logs so therefore, it will equal 1 gallon for every 2 hours of use.
The typical outside propane tank of most homes is 500 gallons. Propane is used for stoves, clothes dryers and hot water on top of the fireplace. This means the tank will last around 6 to 7 months with average use.
How much propane gas does a fireplace use?
Propane does not have as much energy as natural gas. Therefore, it takes different orifices to burn propane. When you buy a stove or instantaneous water heater, be sure to specify propane. The two different gases do not use the same orifices.
Another common service issue we see is the size of the gas line from the propane tank. Often, changes over time will have different pipe sizes inside the house. This can starve the gas leading to the fireplace. The amount of heat a propane fireplace provides depends on the right amount of gas.
We will provide a free estimate on the installation of the log set. If you do not have a propane tank or natural gas, we will help coordinate the installation from the suppliers. Clear Chimney is able to install the black pipe necessary to get the gas logs working quickly.
