When the gas fireplace is not working, it is due to several possible conditions. The most obvious is the fuel source. Is the natural gas or propane reaching the gas fireplace?
During the very cold winter periods, it is not uncommon for the natural gas pressure from the utility to drop. Large commercial users of natural gas may not cut back from their usage. This creates a lower overall pressure in the natural gas system. This results in low pressure and the ignitors for gas logs may keep the system off.
Also, if the gas fireplace not working is fed by propane, the tank levels could be low. Check the levels of the tank and if they are less than 10%, call the propane tank supplier immediately. The propane suppliers may be four to seven days backordered on delivery. Do not wait until the tank is completely gone. The supplier of propane may not be able to service your home quickly.
Another common cause of gas fireplaces not working is the ignitor. The ignitor verifies that the gas source is good before the power is applied to start the logs. Over time when a gas fireplace not working call comes in, we fine the corrosion or soot and dirt is preventing the igniter from doing its job.
Another cause of gas fireplace not working calls is the remote control. We have seen several folks with the batteries simply installed backwards. Check out the gas log remote control batteries if someone changed them recently.
Finally, the gas logs need air to work. Make sure no birds or debris have clogged the chimney piping. If you are not comfortable with this task, reach out our ClearChimney service page here.
Every homeowner (both owners and renters) should buy several fire extinguishers. According to the National Fire Protection Association, a fire breaks out every 90 seconds or so. It is too late AFTER a fire starts.
Fires will begin if embers pop out on a rug or carpet. Burning loose papers or other materials in a fireplace are dangerous to the room. We recommend every home buy several fire extinguishers. Hopefully, they are never needed.
Our trucks are stocked with fire extinguishers as a service to our customers. We are happy to provide them (and mount them if needed) for a nominal fee.
Obviously, the kitchen is where everyone thinks fire extinguishers belong. That is true, but every wood-burning stove and fireplace in your home should have an extinguisher close. They can mount on a wall beside the fireplace. They can be stored in cabinets.
Locations to buy several fire extinguishers
Kitchen for the stove
Wood-burning stoves (each one)
Fireplace (bedrooms, basement and bonus rooms)
Outdoor fireplace or fire pit
Garage for cars or rechargeable tools
Near gas or propane water heaters (if in a different area from above)
Additionally, if you have a golf cart or ATV, the charging stations will require an extinguisher as the batteries off gas at times. Don’t forget the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in these areas, also.
At ClearChimney, our main focus is keeping your family safe. Young children and grandchildren must be protected.
At the very least, have several fire extinguishers in the house. Have them in the garage. Have extinguishers in the trunk of your car.
Remember, when a fire breaks out, it is too late. Do not let others grieve because a fire extinguisher was missing.
Attention Mother Nature – PLEASE hold off Winter. My fireplace is not ready! Our busy season is rapidly approaching. Don’t risk your family’s safety. Call us to clean out that chimney and inspect it for issues. Now is the best time to clean your chimney!
