Company Blog

FIREPLACE REBORN!

There are many reasons why fireplaces are decommissioned.

  • Dust and debris
  • Too hard to get wood
  • Allergies
  • Damaged chimneyFIREPLACE REBORN! - Greenville SC - Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps

 

….and then there are some folks who just believe that a fireplace is an outdated and inefficient way to get heat for your home and prefer more modern technologies and the convenience of full

house systems. While it is true that most modern built fireplace are inefficient to use as a primary heating source, many who hold these “outdated fireplace” beliefs have never really experienced the comfort and satisfaction that comes from the warm glow of a roaring fire in the hearth.

Many of us who have — are hooked! If you are among the fireplace connoisseurs of the world, there are things you need to do to get your fireplace back into service BEFORE YOU NEED IT. If you wait until the week before you want to use it or (heaven forbid) the day before a winter storm is due to hit, you may find some insurmountable obstacles impeding your frantic efforts.

  • All the good chimney service companies are booked out for 3-4 weeks.
  • ALL the chimney sweeps in the world are booked a week or more out.

In short, BEFORE IT GETS COLD is the time to get your fireplace, gas logs and chimney checked out. Here are some good steps to take NOW.

  • Have your chimney and fireplace inspected and thoroughly cleaned if it needs it. Call a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep. Lack of service is the primary cause of potentially dangerous buildup of creosote in chimneys. Chimney fires are NOT FUN and can cause costly damage to your chimney and possibly the rest of your home.
  • Make sure that your gas logs, stove fans, etc. all work well before the time comes to use them. Remember — a large part of “everyone else” will have waited till the last minute and will be vying for the same hard-to-find spots you will be looking for, if you wait.
  • Get your fuel lined up. Check your gas. Buy your wood now. Locate your pellet source.

These steps are a good idea even if you only plan to use your fireplace for special events. Remember those special times of year are pretty much the same for everybody. Let us – here at Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps and Bless Your Hearth – help you enjoy your hearth experience safely and with confidence. Schedule your fireplace, gas log and chimney services right away.

P.S. If you have an inefficient fireplace that you love and you are interested in more heat from your fireplace experience, ask us about it. There may be options for improving your hearth experience.

Why do Gas Logs and Appliances Need Annual Check-Ups?

Most folks won’t argue that wood-burning fireplaces need regular inspections and sweepings. The presence of creosote buildup exponentially increases the potential for chimney fires and other hazards. However, many folks think that having gas logs eliminates the need for having any kind of annual service. It is quite common that there isn’t any kind of appliance check until the unit causes a problem. This is not the case, as they also need regular maintenance.

Gas Fireplaces and Their Chimneys Need Attention

A properly operating gas log appliance has less potential for sooty buildup than a wood burning appliance. However, with the passage of time, as dust or/or animal dander builds up in the working parts, the appliance can become less and less efficient. With lowered efficiency, there is potential for sooting and even failure.

The following are some examples of complications that can arise from not having regular check-ups:

  • Deterioration of ceramic components
  • Leaky valves
  • Faulty thermopiles/thermocouples
  • Glass doors may need cleaning, repair, or replacement
  • Birds, squirrels or other critters may take up residence in an uncovered chimney
  • Cracked crowns, eroded mortar joints, and porous bricks may allow moisture to chronically enter the chimney and cause damage

It’s true that it is relatively easy to see when wood burning appliances require cleaning, as there can be plenty of debris visible. With gas fireplaces, the need for service may not be as immediately obvious. However, that doesn’t mean the need doesn’t exist. The necessity for service may not become apparent until your gas fireplace has problems. Proactively opting for regular inspection/service is a great way to avoid interruption of use.

What To Expect with a Gas Fireplace Inspection/Service?

When our well trained technician arrives to check out and clean your gas fireplace, you can expect a thorough inspection of every aspect of the appliance and the chimney. The following are a few of the most critical elements of a gas fireplace inspection:

  • We examine the fireplace/chimney structure to determine if it is in appropriate working condition. For example, is it in compliance with appliance manufacturer’s specifications for installation? This is determined via a courtesy fireplace/chimney inspection.
  • We check the appliance ignition system to determine if it lights correctly.
  • Some portion of the face of the unit may be taken apart to provide access to interior parts. We check the pilot, connections, thermopile/thermocouple, and other various mechanical parts.
  • We clean dust and debris from the unit. In addition, we refresh the medium around gas log burner if it is dirty beyond practicality of further use.
  • A condition report noting any remaining problems that may require attention will be provided along with recommendations for resolution of issues and prices for those resolutions, if desired.

Keep Your Home Hearth Fires Burning Brightly

You value the comfort, beauty, and enjoyment your gas fireplace provides for your family. Timely care and attention can keep your fireplace in good working order for years and years. Professional chimney sweeps like the ones at Blue Sky Chimney Sweeps | Bless Your Hearth strive to keep every aspect your home hearth fire always in tip-top condition. We can help determine overall condition, need for maintenance, issues with functionality, and even project long-term issues before they become costly problems. Regular inspections/maintenance can insure there is no interruption in your family’s enjoyment of your fireplace.