Book You Next Wildwood, MO Gas Fireplace Service or Repair With English Sweeps
If your gas fireplace in Wildwood, MO is due for a service or acting up when you need it most, don’t wait…call English Sweep. We’ve been helping local homeowners keep their gas fireplaces running safely and efficiently for years. Whether you need an annual inspection, a thorough sweeping, or a repair to restore proper function, our certified techs are here to help. Reach out soon.
How Often Should I Service My Gas Fireplace?
Who doesn’t love a gas fireplace… Clean-burning? Check. Efficient heat? Check. Low maintenance? Check. No maintenance…? Well, not quite.
Although gas fireplaces win out in many categories, this doesn’t mean they’re a set-it-and-forget-it appliance. To keep your gas fireplace operating efficiently and, most importantly, safely, it’s still important to schedule professional inspection and servicing every single year.
Even though gas systems don’t produce creosote like wood-burning units, they can still accumulate dust, debris, and even carbon buildup on the burners…all of which can affect the system’s performance and safety. Additionally, safety sensors and electrical components (like thermocouples, thermopiles, and gas valves) can wear out or malfunction over time.
During a routine service, a technician will:
- Inspect the burner assembly and clean any carbon buildup.
- Check and clean the pilot light and ignition system.
- Examine the thermocouple and thermopile, which regulate the flow of gas.
- Inspect gaskets and seals around the glass to ensure no carbon monoxide is leaking.
- Clean the glass doors, which can become cloudy from heat or residue.
Test for any gas leaks. - If vented, they’ll inspect the chimney or venting system for blockages or deterioration.
It’s best to schedule service in early fall, before the heating season begins, so your fireplace is ready when you need it. Technicians are also more available then, compared to winter when service calls spike due to emergency repairs.
Why Does My Gas Fireplace Smell Like Gas When I Turn It On?
Smelling gas near your fireplace can be unsettling – and it should definitely be taken seriously. While a brief whiff of gas at ignition can be normal, any persistent or strong gas odor is not, and taking action right away is imperative for ensuring your household stays as safe as possible.
Let’s start with what’s normal. When you turn on a gas fireplace, especially after it hasn’t been used in a while, it’s common to smell a slight gas odor for a second or two. This happens because there’s a brief moment where the gas valve opens before the burner ignites, and a small amount of unburned gas escapes. Once the flame catches, that smell should disappear quickly.
However, if the smell lingers after ignition, gets stronger over time, or is present even when the fireplace is off, you may have a gas leak, faulty connection, or ventilation issue.
In this case:
- Turn off the gas supply immediately.
- Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors.
- Avoid turning on lights or using electronics (they could create a spark).
- Leave the home if the smell is strong or accompanied by hissing sounds.
- Call a gas fireplace service technician or your utility company’s emergency gas line.
How Do I Relight the Pilot Light on My Gas Fireplace?
If your gas fireplace isn’t turning on, the most common reason is because the pilot light has gone out. This small flame ignites the main burner when you turn on the unit, and it can go out for a number of reasons – like nearby drafts, dirt buildup, or thermocouple issues.
The good news is that, if your pilot light goes out, relighting it usually isn’t a big feat.
- Turn Off the Fireplace: Make sure the fireplace is completely off and has had time to cool. Locate the gas control knob (usually behind the lower panel of the fireplace) and turn it to the “OFF” position. Wait at least 5 minutes to allow any gas to dissipate.
- Set to “Pilot” Mode: Turn the control knob to the “PILOT” setting. This prepares the system to send gas only to the pilot light.
- Press and Hold the Pilot Button: Press and hold the pilot knob (or a separate red button) to allow gas to flow to the pilot. While holding it down, move to the next step.
- Ignite the Pilot Flame: Most newer fireplaces have a piezo igniter, where you just press the igniter button a few times until you see a flame appear. If your unit doesn’t have an igniter, you’ll need to carefully use a long lighter to ignite the flame manually while holding the pilot knob.
- Hold the Pilot Button for 30 Seconds: Once the pilot flame is lit, keep holding the button for about 30 seconds, then slowly release it. This gives the thermocouple enough time to heat up and keep the gas flowing.
- Turn the Knob to “ON”: Once the pilot stays lit, turn the control knob to the “ON” position. You can now use your wall switch or remote to activate the main burner.
- Replace Any Panels or Covers: If you removed a front panel or access cover, replace it once everything is working properly.
If the pilot light won’t stay lit, there may be a deeper issue, such as a dirty thermocouple or thermopile, a faulty gas valve or igniter, or a clogged pilot orifice. If you’ve followed the steps carefully and the flame still won’t stay lit, it’s time to call a professional technician for an inspection and possibly some repair services.
Gas Fireplace Repair Near Me: Reach Out Today
Ready to enjoy peace of mind and a warm, working fireplace? Book your gas fireplace service or repair with English Sweeps today. We proudly serve the Wildwood area with experienced, honest, and prompt service. Reach out now to schedule your appointment and let us take care of everything.