5 Common Reasons Your Gas Fireplace Stops Working and How to Fix Them
A gas fireplace is a cozy addition to any home, especially during the colder months and during the holiday season. However, like any appliance, it can sometimes stop working, leaving you scratching your head in confusion (and sometimes shivering, too).
If you’ve recently found yourself staring at a non-functioning gas fireplace, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll go over five common reasons a gas fireplace stops working and how to fix it.
Plus, we’ll discuss:
- Why it’s better to repair your fireplace than to ignore the problem.
- The importance of annual fireplace maintenance.
- Why you should find an NFI Certified Pro
5 Common Reasons Your Gas Fireplace Stops Working
- Pilot Light Issues
Problem: The pilot light is the small flame that ignites the burners in your gas fireplace. If it goes out, your fireplace won’t light.
Suggested Repair: Re-lighting the pilot light is often a simple task you can do yourself by following the manufacturer’s instructions. However, if the pilot light won’t stay lit, the thermocouple or thermopile may be the culprit. A thermocouple is a safety component that shuts off gas flow when the pilot light goes out.
Check out our DIY articles discussing how to light your pilot light and how to clean a dirty thermopile.
- Dirty or Clogged Burner
Problem: Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris can clog the burners of your gas fireplace, preventing it from igniting. You may also experience lazy or uneven flames. This issue can lead to serious safety concerns and should not be ignored!
Suggested Repair: A professional cleaning of the burners and the firebox will usually solve the problem. It’s not just about vacuuming; the technician will inspect the orifices and clear any obstructions and clean/inspect all the components of your gas fireplace. Remember your gas fireplace is safe when properly maintained and not neglected. Never go more than a year without scheduling gas fireplace cleaning and maintenance.
- Malfunctioning Gas Valve or Control Module
Problem: The gas valve controls the flow of gas to your fireplace. If it’s faulty or if the control module that manages the ignition sequence fails, your fireplace won’t operate.
Suggested Repair: Replacing the gas valve or the control module is necessary. This is a job for a professional due to the risks involved in working with gas components. Never attempt to repair or replace a gas valve or control module without proper training and experience.
- Faulty Ignition System
Problem: Many modern gas fireplaces use an electronic ignition system rather than a standing pilot light. If the ignition system is faulty, the fireplace won’t start.
Suggested Repair: Repairs might include replacing the ignition module, cleaning the ignition components, or addressing wiring issues. Professional diagnosis is required for safety reasons.
- Blocked Venting or Flue
Problem: A blocked flue can prevent your gas fireplace from working correctly, as it disrupts the airflow needed for combustion. This can also pose a safety hazard by causing carbon monoxide to back up into your home. Carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless, and can be deadly. A professional fireplace technician has the tools to test carbon monoxide levels in your home.
Suggested Repair: A professional fireplace technician should inspect and clean the venting system to remove any blockages.
The Importance of Annual Inspections, Cleaning, and Maintenance
Gas fireplaces stop working when they’ve been neglected too long. Regular maintenance of your gas fireplace is crucial to ensure it operates safely and efficiently. Just like your car needs oil changes and tune-ups, your gas fireplace needs annual inspections, cleaning, and maintenance to keep it running safely. Here’s why you should never neglect fireplace maintenance:
- Safety First: Gas fireplaces can accumulate soot, debris, and even pests in the venting system. This debris can become a fire hazard or obstruct proper venting, potentially leading to carbon monoxide buildup in your home.
- Prevent Costly Repairs: Routine maintenance can catch small issues before they become big, expensive problems. For example, a slightly dirty burner can be cleaned easily and is inexpensive to have done. However, if ignored, it might lead to more significant damage that requires extensive repairs.
- Optimal Performance: Regular cleaning and tune-ups ensure your fireplace burns efficiently, providing maximum heat output with minimal gas consumption. A well-maintained fireplace will also have more even and aesthetically pleasing flames.
- Extend the Lifespan: Just as regular maintenance can keep your car running longer, it can also extend the life of your gas fireplace. Regular care helps all the components work together smoothly, reducing wear and tear.
- Maintain Warranty Coverage: Many manufacturers require annual maintenance to keep the warranty valid. Neglecting maintenance could void your warranty, leaving you to cover repair costs out of pocket.
Annual Gas Fireplace Inspection Checklist:
- Inspect and Clean the Burner and Firebox: Remove dust and debris to ensure clean burning.
- Check the Ignition System: Test the ignition and pilot light system to ensure reliable starts.
- Inspect the Gas Line: Look for leaks or corrosion.
- Check the Venting System: Ensure proper airflow and remove any blockages.
- Test Safety Components: Make sure safety shut-offs, thermocouples, and thermopiles are functioning correctly.
- Much More: A well-trained fireplace technician will test, inspect, and clean dozens of components (components vary by fireplace). For example, the average experience level of our fireplace technicians is 25 years. That’s 25 years of seeing every type of fireplace issue there is – and knowing what to do about it!
The Importance of Working with an NFI Certified Technician
When dealing with gas fireplaces, safety is paramount. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a company that provides ongoing training and employs National Fireplace Institute (NFI) Certified technicians. NFI Certified technicians are trained and tested to ensure they meet high standards for knowledge and skill in fireplace installation, maintenance, repair and even design.
At The Fire Place by Magic Touch, our fireplace technicians receive ongoing training from NFI, HPBA, HPC, and various manufactures. In fact, we employ fireplace designers, installers, and technicians that hold certifications no other company in Phoenix does!
Benefits of Working with an NFI Certified Technician:
- Expertise and Training: NFI training and certification ensures that the technician has undergone rigorous training and testing of gas fireplace safety and functionality.
- Up-to-Date Knowledge: NFI trained and certified professionals stay current with the latest safety standards, technology, and installation practices. This ensures your fireplace is handled with the most up-to-date methods.
- Safety Assurance: Working with a well-trained technician reduces the risk of improper repairs that could lead to dangerous situations, such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning.
How to Find an NFI Certified Technician:
To find an NFI Certified technician in your area, you can visit the NFI website and use their search tool. Simply enter your location to get a list of certified professionals near you. This ensures that you are entrusting your fireplace to someone who is not only knowledgeable but also committed to the highest safety standards.
Of course, if you live in or near Mesa, AZ you can just contact The Fire Place by Magic Touch and know you’re working with the best! We provide gas fireplace repair, replacement, installation and maintenance throughout the Phoenix area.
Why You Should Repair Your Non-Working Gas Fireplace
Ignoring a non-working gas fireplace might seem like an easy solution, especially if you think you can live without it. However, there are several reasons why repairing it is a better choice:
- Safety Concerns: A malfunctioning gas fireplace can pose significant safety risks, including gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs ensure that your fireplace operates safely.
- Home Value: A working gas fireplace is a desirable feature that can increase your home’s value and appeal. This is especially true in the Phoenix area, where the chilly winter nights make a fireplace a valued comfort.
- Energy Efficiency: A functional gas fireplace is a highly efficient heating option, allowing you to zone-heat specific areas of your home. This can reduce your overall heating costs, as you won’t need to rely solely on your central heating system.
- Comfort and Aesthetic Appeal: There’s nothing quite like the warm glow of a gas fireplace to set the mood in your home. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a quiet night in, the ambiance of a fireplace is irreplaceable.
- Cost-Effective in the Long Run: Ignoring minor issues can lead to more significant problems down the road, which can be much more costly to fix. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are more budget-friendly and help extend the lifespan of your fireplace.
Need help getting your gas fireplace back in working order? Our NFI Trained & Certified Techs are ready to tackle any fireplace repair. CALL NOW to schedule a service! Or BOOK ONLINE:
