We’ve Got the Know-How to Service & Sweep Your Gas Appliance
If you’ve ever owned a wood-burning appliance (or know someone who has), then you’re likely aware that they need sweepings and service from time to time. Wood creates a lot of harmful byproducts that break down chimney components and lead to other hazards, like creosote buildup. So, the need for regular inspections and service is kind of a no-brainer.
But when it comes to gas appliances, many homeowners don’t realize the importance of maintenance. These systems are known for their heightened efficiency, ease of use, and mess-free functioning, so many figure that professional care isn’t required.
Even if homeowners do suspect that gas appliances need service, many don’t know what type of services they need, how often they need them, and just why professional care is such a necessity.
If you fall into the unsure category, we’re here to help. Here’s what you need to know about keeping your gas appliance serviced and working as safely and efficiently as possible…
Why Gas Appliances Need to Be Serviced
Gas systems don’t burn wood, so you’re not going to see that visible soot or creosote that you see in systems that burn wood. That said, dust buildup can cause problems and you’re still relying on a chimney to vent out harmful, corrosive substances.
There’s also the possibility of acidic condensation forming and causing water damage inside your flue pipe. Routine chimney cleaning and maintenance services can take care of these issues for you.
English Sweep – Gas Appliance Services
Additionally, if you neglect your system and things start to break down, your chances of being exposed to carbon monoxide will go up considerably.
Carbon monoxide is both colorless and odorless, so you won’t see the gas in your space and you won’t notice that rotten egg smell that’s typically associated with gas leaks. What you can do is keep an eye out for the symptoms of exposure.
If carbon monoxide is in your home, you or others in your home may experience nausea, light-headedness, dizziness, chest pain, and other symptoms that can be described as similar to the flu.
Prolonged exposure can lead to unconsciousness and even death. Because of this, we strongly urge our customers to invest in carbon monoxide detectors for their home. Nowadays, there are models that serve as both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, ensuring you’re covered for any threats that may be present!
If you do discover carbon monoxide in your living space, your first move should be to leave the home and get out into the open air. Next, call the fire department for further assistance. If your gas appliance is indeed the issue, give our emergency number a call. We pride ourselves on keeping St. Louis families as safe as possible, and we’re here to help you out.
Other issues to look out for that could indicate an issue with your gas appliance? Watch out for damp patches on your walls, any blistered paint or peeling wallpaper, stains on the ceiling near the chimney, efflorescence (white stains) on your masonry, deterioration throughout your mortar joints, and crumbling brickwork. All of these things indicate it’s time for professional care!
The trouble is, not all issues and threats related to gas-burning systems are obvious. Sometimes even minor damage can lead to major problems, so regular inspections and maintenance services are important.
How Often Should I Invest in Gas Services?
So here’s the big question many end up asking: How often do I need to schedule inspections for my gas appliances?
And our simple answer is this: every year! Any stove, insert, fireplace, or other heating device you own should have an annual inspection completed – no matter the fuel type – to keep it functioning both safely and efficiently throughout those colder months.
Always play it safe by hiring a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)-certified sweep to look things over before putting the system to use for the season. We have multiple techs that hold this certification (the most in the area, in fact), so when you rely on us, you can be confident your system will be thoroughly evaluated and prepped for use.
What’s Included With Gas Appliance Maintenance?
When providing gas appliance maintenance and gas fireplace repair, we do all of the following:
- Inspect gasket and assembly for leaks or breaks in the seal
- Check the burner
- Clean the firebox and logs, removing any dust or dirt
- Inspect the firebox for damage
- Clean and check the pilot light and pilot light assembly
- Clean the outside of the firebox
- Inspect the entire unit in accordance with NFPA guidelines and manufacturer guidelines
- Check the chimney or vent for damage, debris, and blockages
- Clean the glass with approved cleaners and check for scratches and breaks
- Reassemble the fireplace
If we detect any issues with the system or notice any areas in need of repair or replacement, we’ll let you know during the service appointment, so you can take next steps.
Call Today & Book an Appointment for Your Gas Appliance Service
We’ve been resolving issues with leaky, smelly, ugly chimney systems and making gas appliance maintenance simple for homeowners in the St. Louis area for decades. When you need reliable service, give us a call. Our team has more CSIA-certified sweeps than any company in the area, and the team is led by the only CSIA Master Chimney Sweep in Missouri. You can count on us to do the job right.
For service that’s dependable and high-quality, reach out to our team at 636-225-3340. Prefer to reach out online? Book your appointment right here!
If chimney repairs end up on your list of things to check into, call us to provide this skilled, professional service today.