Gas fire appliances are some of the most popular among homeowners, property managers, and realtors today. Even hotels are catching on to the popularity and convenience of gas fireplaces. Gas fireplaces are easy to light, operate, extinguish, and clean. The homeowner hardly has to lift a finger compared to a traditional wood fireplace. However, this popular “low maintenance” fireplace should not be confused with “no maintenance”. Your gas fireplace needs to be serviced, and here’s why…Gas Fireplace Service - Amarillo TX - West Texas Chimney and Venting

Gas Fireplaces and Moisture

Because of the way newer, more efficient gas fireplaces are designed, there is less heat going up the chimney. This means that the draft that vents the chimney is tenuous, and if the air isn’t warm enough, the byproducts of the fire will stall in the chimney, oftentimes coating the flue walls. Because gas fires produce water vapors, this can cause condensation on the flue walls, which can lead to damage and deterioration of the flue lining system. The average gas furnace produces 1.5 gallons of water per hour! Your gas fireplace will not produce that much water, but it does produce enough to affect the chimney and the chimney’s draft. This isn’t your regular drinking water either. The water vapors produced by your gas fireplace are highly corrosive and acidic.

Gas Fireplaces and Incomplete Combustion

Also caused by less heat going up the chimney, your gas fire may not vent completely. If water vapors are cooling and staying in the chimney, then other toxic gases may also be staying in the chimney, and even falling out into the rooms where you live and breathe. The only way to prevent such an occurrence is by making sure your gas fireplace is maintained and functioning properly.

Gas Fireplace Maintenance

You can clean your gas fireplace on a regular basis. Do not hesitate to follow your owner’s manual for cleaning and maintenance instructions. Take time monthly to clean the glass, check the hinges on the doors, wipe down the ceramic logs so that the burners are clear of dust and debris. Sweep the fireplace clean of anything that may be combustible, or that is simply an eyesore. Your fireplace should be easy to maintain when it is professionally installed, but it should also be professionally serviced annually. Not only will it keep your fireplace working and venting properly, but it may also be a stipulation of your homeowner’s insurance and product warranty. Make sure you keep your family safe by calling a professional chimney sweep in to clean and inspect your gas fireplace annually.

Call West Texas Chimney and Venting Solutions for your gas fireplace solutions. Dial 806-358-0817 to speak with a fireplace expert today.