Your fireplace should be a comforting feature of your home, not a stressful or unsafe one. Each type of fireplace– gas, wood, or electric– has its own signs that it needs professional attention. 

When you catch problems early, you can rest easy knowing your fireplace is safe and working its best. Below, we’ll break down the warning signs to watch for based on your type of fireplace. If something doesn’t feel right with your fireplace, it might be time to call the pros. 

Signs Your Gas Fireplace Needs Professional Servicing

Gas fireplaces are known for being easy to use and low-maintenance, but they still need regular checkups. If you notice any of the signs below, it’s probably time to call in a professional for an inspection or repair.

Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

Your gas fireplace’s pilot light should stay on once it’s lit. If it keeps going out, it could be due to a few different issues.

Potential Causes:

  • Faulty thermocouple
  • Poor gas flow
  • Other mechanical issues

This deceptively small issue could point to something more serious. Don’t ignore it. When your pilot light won’t stay on, it’s best to have a technician take a look. They can figure out what’s going on and fix it safely.

Unusual Smell (Sulfur or Gas Odor)

You shouldn’t smell anything unusual coming from a gas fireplace. If you notice a sulfur-like or rotten egg smell, it could mean there’s a gas leak–a serious safety concern. Turn off the fireplace right away, leave the area, and call a professional immediately. A certified technician can safely inspect the unit and fix any leaks or damaged components. 

Black Soot or Discoloration on Glass

Gas fireplaces are designed to burn clean, so you shouldn’t see black soot or buildup on the glass or logs. If you do, it can affect your entire home.

Potential Causes:

  • Burner not working properly
  • Ventilation issue. 

This type of buildup also affects your indoor air quality. A professional cleaning and inspection can fix the problem and keep your fireplace looking and working like it should.

Strange Noises (Hissing or Whistling)

While a soft whoosh is normal when the flame starts, loud or persistent hissing, whistling, or other odd noises are not. 

Potential Causes:

  • Gas pressure problems
  • Airflow issues
  • Loose components

If your fireplace is making unusual noises, have it checked out by a technician. Fixing it early can prevent more serious damage down the road.

Fireplace Turns On and Off Randomly

Your gas fireplace should not turn on or off by itself. 

Potential Causes:

  • A faulty thermostat
  • Wiring problem
  • Glitch in the control module

A professional can test the system and find out what’s causing the problem.

Signs Your Wood Fireplace Needs Professional Servicing

Wood-burning fireplaces are cozy and classic. However, they come with more upkeep than other types. If you use yours regularly, it’s important to watch for warning signs that it needs attention. Below are some common issues that mean it’s time to call a fireplace or chimney professional.

Excessive Creosote Buildup in Chimney

Creosote is a dark, sticky substance that builds up in your chimney over time. It forms when smoke cools and condenses, especially if you burn wet or unseasoned wood. Too much creosote is a major fire hazard. It can catch fire inside your chimney, leading to serious damage or danger. If you see thick black deposits or haven’t had a chimney cleaning in a while, it’s time to schedule one.

Smoke Entering the Room Instead of Going Up the Chimney

Your fireplace should pull smoke up the chimney, not push it into your living space. If smoke is drifting into the room, something’s not working the way it should. 

Potential Causes:

  • Blocked chimney or flue
  • Broken or closed damper
  • Poor draft or air pressure issues

Using the fireplace in this condition can be dangerous. Stop using it and call a professional to find and fix the problem.

Cracks or Damage in the Fireplace or Chimney

Over time, the bricks and mortar in your firebox or chimney can crack or crumble. This kind of damage can let heat escape to areas it shouldn’t, which can increase fire risk. 

Potential Causes:

  • Freeze/thaw cycles from weather
  • Long-term exposure to moisture
  • Heat damage over time

If you see any visible cracks or notice pieces breaking off, it’s a sign your fireplace needs repair. A technician can check how serious the damage is and recommend the right fix. 

Difficulty Starting or Maintaining a Fire

If your fire keeps going out or won’t start at all, it might be more than just wet wood. 

Potential Causes:

  • Clogged flue or chimney
  • Damaged or stuck damper
  • Wet, unseasoned, or low-quality wood

Also, a fireplace needs good airflow to burn properly. If something’s interfering with that, you may need a professional to inspect the system and get things flowing again. 

Water Damage or Chimney Leaks

Water and chimneys don’t mix. If you notice rust on the damper, stains on the wall, or damp smells, there may be a leak in your chimney system. 

Potential Causes:

  • Cracked chimney crown or masonry
  • Missing or damaged chimney cap
  • Faulty flashing around the chimney

Over time, moisture can also cause serious damage to the structure and even lead to mold. A professional can spot the source of the leak and recommend waterproofing or repairs to keep things dry.

Signs Your Electric Fireplace Needs Professional Servicing

Electric fireplaces are known for being low-maintenance, but they’re still appliances. That means things can go wrong. Most problems are electrical or mechanical and should be looked at by a pro. Here are the top signs your electric fireplace might need a repair.

Fireplace Won’t Turn On or Keeps Shutting Off

Does your electric fireplace not power on or shut off randomly? 

Potential Causes:

  • Blown fuse or tripped breaker
  • Loose or damaged wiring
  • Faulty control board or thermostat

Sometimes, a reset might help, but if the problem keeps happening, it’s best to have it checked out. A professional can safely test the unit and make sure everything’s working like it should.

Burning Smell or Overheating

Electric fireplaces should never give off a burning smell. If they do, it could be from dust burning off. It could also be something more serious like overheating or a motor issue. This is a fire hazard, so it’s important to unplug the unit right away and contact a certified technician. 

Unusual Noises (Buzzing, Clicking, or Rattling)

Electric fireplaces are usually quiet. So if yours starts making buzzing, clicking, or rattling noises, something may be loose or worn out. 

Potential Causes:

  • Loose screws or internal components
  • Worn-out fan or blower motor
  • Obstruction in the heating element

These noises might start small but can lead to bigger issues if left alone. A quick inspection by a pro can prevent the need for bigger repairs later.

Display or Heating Element Malfunctions

If the flame display looks off or the fireplace isn’t producing heat, the heating element or circuit board might be to blame. While some units come with basic troubleshooting tips, dealing with electric parts is best left to the pros. A technician can replace faulty components and get your fireplace running smoothly again. 

Dust or Soot Buildup on Heating Components

Dust buildup on the heating element or vents can block airflow and cause overheating. While light dusting is okay, heavy buildup should be handled carefully. If your unit keeps getting dirty fast or smells like it’s burning dust, it might need a deeper clean. A professional can clean it safely and check for any deeper issues.

Need Fireplace Maintenance? Contact Fireplace Solutions Today!

No matter the type, your fireplace should always be safe, reliable, and ready to use. 

If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, have a professional take a look. Fireplace Solutions is here to help with expert service, same-day appointments, and technicians you can trust.

Contact Fireplace Solutions for expert fireplace repair and maintenance today. Schedule online or give us a call. We’re ready when you are!

Fall is here, and that means the weather is turning colder. For many people, this means the fireplace in the home will start to get a lot more usage in the next few weeks or months.

At Comfort Solutions, we’re here to help you with all preparation elements for the colder season. Here are a few areas you should consider as you get things started in the fall.

Preparing for Use

Proper maintenance of the fireplace is always necessary. There are several things you can do, including keeping the chimneys clean and clear – this includes the flues, smoke chambers, dampers and vents. Ensuring this is done is the best way to make sure you’ll be ready to use the machine right away.

Professional chimney cleaners can help here, and the National Fire Protection Agency recommends that this is done annually and before you light the first fire of the season. It’s also recommended every 60 to 80 fires for people in a cold climate.

Wood Burning Tips

A wood-burning fireplace can be a very attractive feature, but it can carry risks if it’s not properly maintained. Before the first fire of the fall or winter season check for the following:

  • Creosote buildup: This is a toxic and highly flammable result of burning wood, and it should be cleared right out if discovered. Ignited creosote can become a fire that’s out of control in a hurry, and exposure to creosote smoke is dangerous to the lungs and other organs.
  • Cracks or loose bricks
  • Missing or damaged chimney cap: This piece prevents stray embers from igniting the home’s roof, and also deters birds from building nests while keeping other animals and debris out.
  • Trees: If there are tree branches blocking the chimney and sending smoke back into your home, you will need to trim these back.

Gas Burning Tips

A gas fireplace is generally easier to maintain than wood, but still does require annual maintenance. Ventilation is particularly important – carbon monoxide can enter the home if there are problems here. If you notice any of these signs, this could be an issue:

  • Dampness in the home, especially on the walls
  • Stains on the outside of the chimney, especially white stains
  • Erosion around mortar joints or crumbling bricks

Fireplace for Heating

Some homeowners rely on fireplaces for winter heating and comfort. If this is a priority, here are some tips:

  • Make sure the flue damper is in good shape to seal heat in the home.
  • Install a tempered glass door at the front of the firebox instead of a movable screen. This will seal the fireplace off more effectively.
  • For wood fireplaces, clean the inside of the firebox regularly to remove buildup and prime the area for future fires. This will allow for optimal space.

For more on prepping your fireplace for fall and winter, or for more on any of our custom fireplace options, speak to the pros at Comfort Solutions today.

You know us best for our custom fireplace services, but at Comfort Solutions, we provide numerous other heating and air services as well. One such service that’s particularly important in a warm, dry Utah summer like the one upcoming: Humidifier services.

A humidifier in the home is one of your first lines of defense against low humidity, and the accompanying dryness issues it brings with it. What are the causes and signs of low humidity in the home, and how does a whole-house humidifier help address these issues?

Low Humidity Causes

Humidity refers to water vapor suspended in the air, and in general, warmer air holds more moisture than cooler air – this is why dryness is so common during the winter. When there isn’t enough vapor in the air, the little moisture that is present will be quickly sucked into the air, including moisture that leaves your body through areas like the skin, nose and throat. In these situations, there will be limited techniques available for adding more moisture inside the home, which can become drier and drier.

Signs of Low Humidity

There are several possible signs that the humidity in your home could be too low:

  • Static shock: When you’ve been touching carper for a while, then touch a new surface and receive (or give) a shock
  • Dry or itchy skin
  • Nose bleeds, especially during winter
  • Chapped lips, often even despite chapstick or other combatants
  • Persistent coughs
  • Flare-ups or new symptoms in allergies or asthma cases
  • Gaps or warping in wood flooring
  • Cracks or molding in wood furniture

Whole-House Humidifier

The best solution to low humidity is a whole-house humidifier, which mounts directly to the furnace and requires almost no maintenance. Humidity levels can be set and adjusted based on need. Whole-house humidifiers have their own water supply, which limits any confusion. In cases where chronic low humidity is an issue, a whole-house humidifier makes much more economic and practical sense than several separate, individual humidifiers.

Want to learn more about humidifiers, or interested in a beautiful new fireplace or any of our other heating and cooling services? Speak to the experts at Comfort Solutions today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]