While gas fireplaces require far less maintenance than the wood-burning type, annual inspection is critical to the safe operation of your gas fireplace. You should always schedule a yearly inspection of your gas fireplace to ensure everything is running properly.
Your technician will make sure your gas fireplace is venting properly. If it is not or it malfunctions, you run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, fire and/or an explosion.
You also want to be on the lookout for gas leaks and any blockages in the chimney or venting system. Animal nests, twigs, leaves and yard detritus can combine to create blockages. The internal works that produce the fire also need a good look to make there are no clogged ports, loose connections, or worn or corroded burners.
A gas fireplace offers so many of the advantages of wood-burners but without all the work and cleanup. It’s not only a wonderful source of heat but a great accent to any room at any time of the year. Flickering flames set a wonderful mood.
Remember that your gas fireplace needs some TLC once a year and that time is coming. So think of this as your summer warning to plan ahead for the cooler days to come. Schedule an inspection towards the middle of the fall season – fall begins Sept. 22 – to make sure you’re good to go when it’s time to light the fire. If you make heavy use of the fireplace year-round, you might want to set up that appointment just a bit sooner.