Galveston, TX Gas Fireplace Service: Trust Lords Chimney
Looking for gas fireplace service near Galveston, TX? At Lords Chimney, we specialize in everything from routine maintenance and cleaning to troubleshooting and new installations. Whether your gas logs need replacing, your open hearth isn’t heating efficiently, or you just want peace of mind before the next cold front, our certified technicians are ready to help. Call today to book your spot.
Can I Convert My Wood Fireplace to Gas?
Yes, you can absolutely convert your wood-burning fireplace to gas – and there are a few different ways to do it depending on your goals, budget, and the condition of your current setup. Whether you’re tired of chopping wood, looking for a cleaner heat source, or just want the convenience of instant heat, converting your wood fireplace to gas is a very doable upgrade.
- Install a Gas Log Set: One of the most straightforward options is adding a gas log set. These are decorative ceramic logs that sit in your existing firebox and run on natural gas or propane. They’re ideal if you want the look of a wood fire without the mess or maintenance.
- Add a Gas Fireplace Insert: If you want to maximize heat output and energy efficiency, a gas insert is your best option. These are fully enclosed systems that slide into your existing firebox. They’re sealed combustion units that vent directly outside and are designed to produce consistent heat with thermostat or remote controls.
- Install a Built-In Gas Fireplace: This would be more exhaustive, but if your wood fireplace is in poor condition or you’re doing a full renovation, you might consider removing it and installing a built-in gas fireplace. This is essentially starting fresh, but provides a great way to upgrade the entire look and performance of your fireplace in on fell swoop.
In one project we tackled, a local homeowner had a 20 – 25-year-old manufactured wood-burning metal fireplace with refractory firebox panels that looked like brick. The existing refractory panels had deteriorated, making it a good time to upgrade. And the homeowner wanted to know if we could upgrade to gas logs in the process.
Here’s what our pros did:
- Replaced the old panels with new refractory panels, restoring the firebox’s safety and appearance.
- Added a gas log set, giving the homeowner the warmth and visual appeal of a fire – now with the ease of flipping a switch instead of hauling wood.
Wondering about your options? Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask us what’s possible. This example is proof that even older prefabricated fireplaces can be modernized with gas, without needing to tear everything out in the process.
What’s the Best Way to Avoid Carbon Monoxide Leaks With a Gas Fireplace?
Modern gas fireplaces are built to function as safely as possible. That said, it’s important to be aware of potential risks, as well as know how to best avoid them. Gas fireplaces product carbon monoxide (CO), which is a poisonous gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless (making it next to impossible to detect). Minimize your risk of exposure by following these guidelines:
- Have your fireplace professionally installed. When having a new gas appliance installed, always hire a certified technician. Proper venting setup is critical, as incorrect installation can trap combustion gases inside your home.
- Schedule annual inspections. Hire a professional to inspect the fireplace, chimney or venting system, and gas lines at least once a year. They’ll check for issues like cracks, blockages, soot buildup, faulty components, and more.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Place CO detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms and near the fireplace. Test the detectors monthly and replace batteries at least once a year.
- Follow manufacturer instructions when using your fireplace. In addition, never burn wood, paper, or other materials in a gas fireplace, and don’t run the fireplace continuously for long periods, especially in a tightly sealed home without proper ventilation.
- Keep your fireplace clean. Dust and debris can block vents or burners, leading to incomplete combustion and CO buildup. Have a professional clean and service the unit regularly, and do your own upkeep to keep things dust-free.
- Be aware of warning signs. If you notice soot or discoloration around the fireplace, yellow flames instead of blue, smell any type of gas, of experience common signs of CO exposure (headaches, nausea, confusion, lightheadedness, etc.) turn off the fireplace and contact a professional immediately.
Think of your gas fireplace like a vehicle: it runs safely and efficiently when maintained, but dangerous when neglected.
What Color Flames Should My Gas Fireplace Have
Your gas fireplace should always be burning blue flames.It’s normal for the blue flames to have some yellow or orange tips flickering above the blue, but it should be mostly blue. Blue flames mean the gas is burning completely with enough oxygen.
Why are yellow flames in a gas fireplace bad?
In most cases, yellow flames in your gas fireplace means there’s an issue with incomplete combustion. Yellow flames can lead to:
- Incomplete Combustion: Yellow flames occur when there isn’t enough oxygen to fully burn the gas, which can result in carbon monoxide exposure.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO) Production: CO is a colorless, odorless, and highly toxic gas that can be deadly. Incomplete combustion significantly increases the risk of CO buildup in your home.
- Soot & Residue Buildup: Yellow flames often produce soot, which is essentially unburned carbon. This can blacken the logs, the glass, and even your walls, making a mess and potentially damaging the fireplace over time.
- Reduced Efficiency: An inefficient burn means your fireplace is using more gas to produce less heat, leading to wasted energy and higher utility bills.
- Lower Heat Output: Yellow flames are generally cooler than blue flames, so your fireplace won’t be as effective at heating your space.
If you notice yellow flames in your gas fireplace, don’t ignore it – the risk of carbon monoxide exposure is serious. Instead, stop using your fireplace and call in a professional fireplace technician to take a look. At Lords Chimney, we can safely diagnose the problem, clean the unit, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure safer and more efficient operation.
Your Trusted Galveston Chimney Company: Call Today
When it comes to gas fireplace service in Galveston, trust the experienced professionals at Lords Chimney. From minor tune-ups to major repairs, we’ve got you covered for all gas fireplace services near you. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.