Read this guide to learn how to fix some common problems with your fireplace or chimney.
A chimney repair service Short Hills in New Jersey (NJ) ensures that your fireplace functions properly so that it is ready whenever your friends and family want to use it. Your fireplace could experience several problems depending on the materials used to construct it, how it is used and the design of the fireplace. Here are some common fireplace problems you need to know.
The pilot light is not lighting
A gas fireplace has a small flame fueled by gas that is always lit. This flame is known as the pilot light and it ignites the main burners when you need heat. Sometimes, this pilot light goes out and your burners will not light. You can fix this by restarting the flow of gas that leads to the pilot light and light it manually. If this does not work then you should check for moisture in the gas line. In this case, the line will need draining and cleaning by a certified technician.
The buildup of creosote
Creosote can build up in your chimney and restrict the flow of air. It can also cause smoke to enter your house instead of getting outside. Creosote is highly flammable. Too much buildup of creosote can be a fire hazard. You can prevent the buildup of creosote by ensuring your chimney has a very strong draft. You should also have your chimney cleaned by a professional regularly.
The pilot light does not remain lit
Your fireplace service provider should check your pilot light and ensure it remains lit. In gas fireplaces, thermocouples keep the gas flowing to the fireplace’s pilot light as long as combustion happens there. It achieves this by sending electricity into your gas valve if it detects heat hence signaling your valve to remain open. If the pilot light stays lit for twenty to forty seconds and goes out repeatedly then there are high chances that the thermocouple is to blame. The thermocouple is sometimes not hooked up properly.
It is therefore important to ensure that all the tubing, screws and wires are properly connected to solve the problem. If they are not well-connected, you might need a new thermocouple. Do not mess with the thermocouple. You should instead get a certified professional to fix it for you.
Chimney obstructions
Animals such as birds like to build up their nests in the chimney. If there is a nest in your chimney then you will see smoke pouring into your home after starting a fire. You will need to install a chimney cap on top of your chimney to keep unwanted critters out whilst allowing smoke to escape. You should also inspect the cap regularly because debris such as branches and leaves can get caught in it.
Having a chimney that is too short
If your chimney is too short, you should have a professional chimney repair service Short Hills NJ provider redesign it. Design flaws such as chimneys that are too short can prevent a proper draft in your wood-burning fireplace. You should vent smoke reliably and properly by extending our chimney at least three feet above the roof’s peak.
