Ohio Gas Fireplace Operation and General Questions
What are the warning signs that my unit needs to be serviced?
The most common noticeable warning signs that your gas fireplace, gas insert or gas log set is in need service are:
- Soot build-up
- Foul or suspicious odor coming from unit
- Film, discoloration or etching on glass
- Slow or no ignition when unit is turned on
- Unit shuts itself off
- Unit has no history of service preformed
How do I find a knowledgeable hearth professional?
As with other trades, an excellent indication of competence is an individual's training and certification testing. In the hearth products industry, the Chimney Safety Institute of America is an independent, nonprofit certification agency that provides professional training materials and conducts nationwide testing of technical knowledge and skills.
How often do I have to clean the gas fireplace and vent?
Gas fireplace service and maintenance will depend upon the use and type of installation. Most all manufacture warranties require a qualified service technician to perform an annual inspection and service.
I have an odor while burning my gas fireplace. Is that a problem?
Gas fireplaces that are not brand new may have a build up of dust and debris; try cleaning behind the upper and lower louvers. Another source of odor can be the type of unit you have, vent free fireplaces burn the off gases in your home causing an unpleasant odor. A third source of odor can be from the adhesives used when the unit was installed. If these suggested sources don’t correctly identify the odor, call us to have your unit serviced and inspected.
How can I find the model number?
Gas burning fireplaces and inserts have a serial/model/rating plate or sticker in the lower cavity control area. Gas stoves have a serial/model/rating plate attached to the back of the stove or inside the pedestal base. Gas log sets have a plate chained to the grate or stamped information on the grate.
Can I change the look of my fireplace?
In many cases a gas fireplace has several facing and trim options. We can offer new face fronts that will work with just about every manufacturer of gas fireplaces or inserts. Ask to see our color samples and styles available.
Can I shut the pilot off in the summer?
Yes, you can turn the pilot off when you won’t be using your appliance for an extended period of time. NOTE: It’s not recommended in climates that are high in humidity due to condensation and oxidation.
Will my gas unit still burn if I lose electricity?
If your model has a standing pilot light or a patented IPI System, which works on a battery back up of 2 D cell batteries, it will work in the event of a power outage. You may need to install batteries for operation. If you have a fan option, it will not work without power, but the appliance itself will burn and provide heat. If you have a remote control, you may need to operate the appliance with the ON/Off switch in the control area of the appliance.
Why am I feeling a cold draft from my fireplace?
There are several possible causes of feeling cold air from a gas fireplace.
- Check around the area where the gas line enters your fireplace.
- Check to make sure that your glass is clamped on tightly by all clamps or screws. You may need to remove the front of the fireplace to see all of the fasteners. (Make sure you hold the glass in with one hand while examining and checking the clamps with the other.)
- If the fireplace is mounted on cement versus plywood, that can also transfer cold into your home.
- If the chase area or "doghouse" is not insulated and sealed correctly, cold air will conduct directly into your home. Refer to our service page for more detailed information on how we can remedy this problem for you.
Why is the glass on my fireplace unusually hot?
The glass on a gas fireplace WILL reach very high temperatures. USE CAUTION: Carefully SUPERVISE children in the same room as your appliance; alert everyone to the hazards of high temperatures; DO NOT operate with protective barriers removed; keep clothing, furniture, draperies and other combustibles away. Barriers such as screens over the glass will reduce the risk of burn from touching the glass. Decorative screen fronts are available, ask the technician to show you color samples and styles while we are out servicing your unit.
Can I install a blower or fan kit on my fireplace after the fireplace has been installed?
Many gas fireplace models that have louvers or grills on the front can have a fan kit added. You will want to make sure that electricity is run to the junction box underneath the fireplace first, before ordering & installing a fan kit. Most gas fireplaces are remote ready, check the owners manual for options available for your unit. Fan kits and remote controls can be purchased and installed by our service technicians.
Why is my gas appliance collecting black soot?
Soot build-up is a result of flame impingement caused by incomplete combustion, i.e. flames coming in contact with a surface, cooling the flame, and preventing combustion, this can be caused by blocked burner tubes or improperly placed logs. Should you notice a build-up of soot, turn the unit off and call for an appointment. WARNING: vent-free gas logs should never have soot build-up.
To have a certified technician come and look at your gas fireplace, call us at (513) 662-4600 or schedule an appointment online today.
Service Areas
Amazing Flame of Cincinnati provides Gas Fireplace Services and Repair in the greater Cincinnati area including:
- Covington
- Newport
- Mt. Healthy
- Blue Ash
- Montgomery
- Loveland
- Cherry Grove
- White Oak
- Mason
- Anderson
- Milford
- Maineville
Dealer Opportunities
Consider becoming part of Amazing-Flame growing independent national gas fireplace service network. Dealership associations are still available with training, for qualified individuals in some select cities. Contact us for more information.
Need Other Chimney Related Services?
Visit our other site at American Chimney where we offer a variety of services including chimney cleaning, inspections, masonry work and more.