A gas fireplace can add beauty and warmth to your home without having to gather firewood or have it delivered. While this home amenity will improve your space, you should also know how to address any issues that could arise. The guide below explains some common problems to watch for in your new gas fireplace installation.

What Issues Can Arise With a Gas Fireplace?

1. Foul Odor

Natural gas is odorless in its original state, but suppliers mix it with a gas that smells like sulfurous rotten eggs to alert homeowners of its presence. Because gas leaks can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, you should take the right precautions if you notice a rancid odor near your furnace.

The fire may not be burning all the gas supply, or there may be a leak—if there is, you may notice a hissing sound. Don’t light the stove or strike a match, as this could cause an explosion. Cut the gas supply and call a professional to inspect it.

2. Change in Glass Color

Natural gas usually burns cleanly, so you shouldn’t have to worry about the buildup of burned off debris on the fireplace glass. However, if you notice a sooty film beginning to develop on the glass, your fireplace may have inadequate ventilation.

This discoloration may also indicate imbalanced air levels or improper log placement. Regardless of the cause, discoloration typically can be resolved with small adjustments or professional repairs, and won’t require new gas fireplace installation.

3. Pilot Won’t Stay Lit

The pilot is the ignition flame that stays on all the time—whenever you turn on the fireplace, the gas passes over the area and is ignited. If the pilot is going out constantly, there could be a few factors to blame. The thermopile that shields the pilot and prevents gas leaks may be wearing out. Another possibility is that the wiring in your gas fireplace could be faulty and in need of repair. Either way, you should have a professional inspect the area to prevent further issues.

Whether you need a professional for gas fireplace installation or are having problems with your current setup, contact the experts at Muotka Mechanical in Anchorage, AK. They specialize in residential heating solutions, such as water heater repairs, furnace updates, and boiler work. For an estimate on gas fireplace installation, call (907) 344-8825. To learn more about their work, visit them online.