There’s a reason gas fireplaces are popular among homeowners – they’re efficient, can reduce heating expenses, and there’s no need to store firewood. Gas fireplaces are also much easier to maintain than traditional wood-burning setups.
All that said, though, they are still at the mercy of wear and tear, just like any other household appliance. Gas fireplaces can last around 15 years with consistent care and maintenance, but there may come a point in time when your gas fireplace needs to be repaired or replaced.
So, which option is cheaper? That depends on a variety of things. The best way to determine which option is right for you is to schedule an appointment for an inspection with Ozark Stove and Chimney. Our crew of Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified technicians will examine your gas fireplace and help you choose the best course of action for your home and your budget.
Common Problem With Gas Fireplaces
Issues can pop up unexpectedly at times, but there’s a good chance we’ve dealt with your gas fireplace concerns before. What are the most common problems we’ve encountered?
Pilot Light Issues: Most gas fireplaces have a pilot light. You may be able to see it as a small blue flame beneath the logs. The pilot light is responsible for igniting the fire, so if it goes out, your fireplace will not work. If you notice that the pilot light goes out a lot, it could be a sign that there is something wrong with the damper, thermocouple, or gas supply.- Odd Sounds: Gas fireplaces should be silent or operate on a low hum if it has a blower. When there is mechanical or equipment damage, your fireplace may produce banging, screeching, or grinding sounds.
- Soot Buildup: Gas fireplaces don’t produce as much soot as wood-burning fireplaces. If you see a strangely large amount of soot, it could be pointing to a problem with your firebox, burner, chimney, or ventilation system. Soot is combustible, so you should schedule an inspection and cleaning as soon as possible.
- Bad Odors: Any time a fireplace smells, it is an indication that something is wrong. A dirty fireplace is the usual culprit of unpleasant smells. If the smell reminds you of rotten eggs, it might be a gas leak. This is an emergency situation and you should call 911 for help immediately.
- Faulty Thermostat: If your gas fireplace has a thermostat to control the temperature, it may start to malfunction over time. Issues could include unresponsiveness, incorrect temperature readings, or the inability to reach the desired temperature.
So… Should I Repair or Replace?
Whether to repair or replace your gas fireplace depends on several factors. Ask yourself the following questions when choosing the repair route or before considering completely replacing your fireplace:
- How old is the fireplace? Gas fireplaces can last a long time, but if your fireplace is 15 to 20 years old, it’s likely reaching the end of its lifespan. At this point, a replacement may be a better option than investing money into a fireplace that may not last much longer.
- Is this the first issue you’ve had? Minor mechanical problems or broken parts happen from time to time. But if you have had to do a lot of repairs on your gas fireplace and it’s relatively new, replacing it may be the answer for you.
- Does your fireplace still fit your home aesthetically? If you are happy with your gas fireplace and it fits your home’s decor, repair work can be the right choice for you. But if you’d prefer an upgrade or a completely new look, think about replacing it.
Save Money – Be Proactive
Whether you have a gas fireplace or wood-burning fireplace, the CSIA recommends having it inspected at least once per year or more if you use your fireplace often. Annual gas fireplace inspections and regular servicing can help you get out in front of any issues before they blow up. Problems that go undetected for a long time only lead to more damage and more expensive repairs.
Ozark Stove & Chimney Is the Right Team for You
We understand that choosing a chimney service company can be a hard decision. Ozark Stove and Chimney is a local company and we are proud to serve residents in Green County, Christian County, Stone County, Dallas County, Benton County, Marion County, or nearby. For fireplace installations, chimney repairs, regular maintenance, and more, we’re the team to trust in for it all.
We are members of and hold certifications through the following organizations:
- Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certified
- Saver Systems/HeatShield Factory Trained
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) Accredited
- National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Members
Call Ozark for a Gas Fireplace Inspection Now
Are you experiencing issues with your gas fireplace? Give us a call today and let us get your fireplace back up and in working order. You can reach a member of our customer service team by phone at 417-201-6585 or schedule an appointment online.