Smell gas? Don't use the fireplace or any switches. Leave the house and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. This form is not for emergencies.
Common gas fireplace problems
- Pilot won't light or won't stay lit. This is often a dirty pilot assembly or a worn thermocouple or thermopile.
- Fireplace won't turn on from the switch or remote: batteries, wiring, the valve or the ignition module.
- Lazy, tall yellow or smoky flames, or soot on the logs or glass, can point to log placement, burner or air-mixture problems.
- White or cloudy film on the glass is a common byproduct that needs the right cleaner.
- Odd smells beyond the normal first-burn-of-the-season smell.
- Venting problems: blocked or damaged vent pipes or caps on direct-vent units.
What an annual gas fireplace service usually covers
- Cleaning the burner, pilot assembly and logs, and setting the logs in the correct position for your model.
- Checking the ignition, valve and safety components.
- Inspecting the vent and termination cap and checking for leaks.
- Cleaning the glass and checking the gasket seal on sealed units.
Follow your manufacturer's service schedule; most recommend regular professional service. Some chimney companies service gas units, and some gas fireplaces are handled by hearth or HVAC companies. Tell us your brand or model if you know it, and we'll try to match you with someone who works on that type.
Vented vs. vent-free gas logs
Vented gas logs sit in a working fireplace and send combustion gases up the chimney, so the chimney and damper still need checks. Vent-free logs and inserts are designed differently and have their own safety rules. A pro can tell you which you have.
Related: chimney inspection, cost & FAQ.
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