QA

Quick Answer: How A Gas Fireplace Works

A vented gas fireplace functions using a combustion and exhaust system that creates highly safe, efficient heating. The unit is a sealed chamber that brings in fresh air from the outside for use in the combustion process and then channels gaseous byproducts back out to the exterior of the building.

How does a gas fireplace turn on?

Using a Wall Switch to Turn On a Gas Fireplace Many gas fireplaces come equipped with a wall switch control panel for activating the unit and adjusting the level of the flame. Simply push the “On” button and the pilot should ignite.

How does a vented gas fireplace work?

When the gas fireplace starts up, exhaust passes through the inner pipe to the outdoors, while the outer pipe brings in fresh air for combustion, transmitting it directly to the bottom of the sealed firebox, where it ignites the unit.

Is it safe to run a gas fireplace all day?

In general, you should not run an unvented fireplace for more than three hours at a time. If you are using natural gas, you can usually run your fireplace for up to four hours before needing to refuel. If you are using propane, the limit is typically two hours.

Do you leave the gas on in a gas fireplace?

Generally speaking, gas fireplaces that are fully vented (aka direct vent) and have a sealed glass front can be left on for many hours. But models that are vent-free and have front doors that can be opened should only be left on for a maximum of 2 hours at a time.

Do gas fireplaces work without power?

Gas & wood fireplaces will continue to work safely during a power outage. These fireplaces do not require electricity for venting and can be used safely during a power outage.

Should I turn off the pilot light on my gas fireplace in the summer?

Your Utility Bill Perhaps the most important reason to turn off gas fireplace pilot light in summer is because of the money and energy you will be saving. If you leave the pilot light on during the summer it is simply sitting there burning gas, which is wasting gas and contributing to an exorbitant energy bill.

Do you need a chimney with a gas fireplace?

Ventless fireplaces fueled by gas or propane rely on indoor air for combustion, and they exhaust a low level of their combustion gases into the room in which they’re located. A chimney or flue isn’t necessary. In fact, ventless fireplaces generally are just for aesthetics and supplemental space heating.

Do you have to open vent for gas fireplace?

Our research shows that the flue on a gas fireplace should remain open during use or when the pilot light is lit. If the flue is closed in either instance, you risk a greater chance of carbon monoxide poisoning or a spark induced structure fire due to a buildup of toxins emitted by propane or natural gas burners.

How can I tell if my gas fireplace is vented?

Turn on the fireplace. If the flames reach above the gas logs and the look like a wood burning fireplace, then the logs must be vented. If the flames are small, an have a blue cast, the fireplace is vent-free.

Can I sleep with my gas fireplace on?

An overall rule for safe gas fireplace usage is to not let your fireplace—no matter which style—operate throughout the night. Unmonitored gas fireplaces can lead to dangerous, often fatal, outcomes. The two most concerning outcomes of leaving a gas fireplace on for too long are a house fire or a gas leak.

Do gas fireplaces have an automatic shut off?

Nearly every new gas fireplace comes equipped with safety features such as a 100% fail-safe shut-off valve. If the pilot flame goes out, the gas flow will automatically turn off. This device automatically shuts the gas off if the temperature in the fireplace gets too cold or if too much carbon monoxide builds up.

Can gas fireplaces explode?

Although convenient, these home gas fireplaces pose significant risk of explosions and house fires if they are improperly installed or maintained. Gas Fireplace leaks can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, but can also result in explosions that can level an entire neighborhood block.

Do gas fireplaces produce carbon monoxide?

Yes, gas fireplaces are one potential cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. An improperly maintained or ventilated gas fireplace can create incomplete combustion, creating carbon monoxide, and causing this toxic gas to linger—putting those inside at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Can I light my gas fireplace with a lighter?

Flame-Lit Pilot Light Turn on the supply line to the gas fireplace. Light a match or butane candle lighter and hold it near the burner in the fireplace. Turn the gas key to release gas to the burner. Pull the match or light away when the burner lights.

Will gas leak if pilot light is off?

Although this is an area of concern for many people, the reality is that boilers are built so that the gas supply to the pilot light is shut off if the flame goes out. Whilst the cause of pilot light failure needs to be investigated, extinguished pilot lights aren’t going to cause a gas leak.

Why does my gas fireplace make a banging noise after turning off?

Yes, a gas log system that makes a clicking or ticking sound when the burner is lit or turned off is typically caused by the metal shell around the gas logs contracting as it cools down. If the noise is excessive, then you will want to contact a qualified service technician.

How do I keep spiders out of my gas fireplace?

Gas fireplaces may attract spiders, too. Try to keep the pilot light on, as it keeps spiders away.

How long do gas fireplaces last?

How Long Can a Gas Fireplace Last? Generally speaking, you can get a good ten to fifteen years of use before you need to replace your gas fireplace.

What do you put inside a gas fireplace?

Supplies Needed To Freshen Up Your Gas Fireplace Silica Sand (not needed for a propane fireplace) Vermiculite (optional for natural gas fireplace) Rock Wool. Platinum Embers (optional for more dimension) Lava Rock.

Where does a gas fireplace vent?

Most direct vent gas fireplaces are vented to the outdoors horizontally (through the wall), but they can also be routed vertically (through the roof).

Do you open the damper on a gas fireplace?

The damper in a gas fireplace should remain open all the time. The glass between the firebox and your home prevents cold or heat from coming down the chimney and by leaving the damper open at all times, you eliminate the risk of having gas build up or backdraft into your home.

Should the damper be open or closed on a gas fireplace?

always fully open the damper. If you’re burning wood, keep it fully open until all the burning embers are completely burned out. If it’s a gas log set, turn off the flames before the closing the damper as far as possible.