Seeking Chimney Repair Near You? Winston’s Chimney Service Is Here for Great Falls, VA
We’re the Great Fall’s area go-to chimney service provider. For chimney and fireplace repair services near you, we’re the team to hire. Give us a call to book your next masonry repair, chimney relining job, leaky chimney repair service, and more.
Do Gas Fireplaces Require the Same Maintenance as Wood-Burning Fireplaces?
Yes and no – overall, gas fireplaces are lower maintenance, in that they don’t require the homeowner to store wood, scoop ash, maintain a fire, etc.
That said, gas fireplaces still need regular professional care – including annual chimney inspections – to ensure they run as safely and efficiently as possible.
- Relighting or replacing a faulty pilot light. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, it may need to be relit or replaced due to issues with the thermocouple, gas flow, or debris buildup.
- Thermocouple/thermopile replacement. A worn-out or malfunctioning thermocouple or thermopile can prevent the fireplace from igniting properly and may need to be replaced.
- Ensuring proper ignition and flame sensing. If the fireplace is struggling to ignite or the flame keeps going out, the ignition system and flame sensor may need adjustment or replacement.
- Fixing electronic or spark igniters. Faulty electronic or spark igniters can prevent the fireplace from lighting, requiring troubleshooting or replacement of the ignition components.
- Gas valve replacement. If the gas valve is malfunctioning or leaking, it may need to be replaced to ensure proper gas flow.
- Addressing gas flow issues. Problems with gas flow can result from clogged lines, faulty regulators, or leaks.
- Burner cleaning or replacement. A dirty or damaged burner can cause uneven flames, poor heating performance, or soot buildup.
- Log and ember replacement. Over time, gas logs and embers can deteriorate, affecting both the appearance and efficiency of the fireplace.
- Removing blockages for proper ventilation. Debris, animal nests, or soot buildup can obstruct vents and flues, leading to poor combustion and dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.
- Glass door cleaning and seal replacement. Dirty or damaged glass doors can hinder visibility and efficiency, while worn-out seals can lead to heat loss and safety concerns.
- Fixing or replacing the fan. If the blower fan is noisy or not functioning, it may need to be repaired or replaced to improve heat distribution.
- Carbon monoxide and gas leak detection. Regular inspections and testing for gas leaks or carbon monoxide can prevent dangerous leaks and ensure safer fireplace operation.
Book your appointment with our team today.
McLean Chimney Repair Services: Why Is Smoke Coming Into My Home?
If smoke is entering your home instead of venting through the chimney, it’s likely due to poor airflow, blockages, or structural issues with your chimney system.
First and foremost, though, check your damper. One of the most common causes of smoke in your space is a closed or partially closed damper, and this is a very easy fix. The damper must be fully open when using the fireplace to allow smoke to escape properly.
Back to bigger common issues, another frequent problem is negative air pressure inside the house. Modern homes are often tightly sealed for energy efficiency, which can create a vacuum effect that prevents proper chimney draft. Running exhaust fans, HVAC systems, or range hoods while using the fireplace can contribute even further to this problem. A simple solution is to open a nearby window slightly to balance indoor air pressure.
Chimney blockages can also force smoke back into your home. Creosote buildup, animal nests, leaves, or debris will obstruct the chimney flue, preventing proper ventilation. Regular chimney sweeping helps remove these obstructions and ensures an open passage for smoke.
Is it windy out? Weather conditions can also play a role. Strong winds and cold air inversion can interfere with proper drafting. And if your chimney is too short compared to surrounding structures, it may struggle to create enough draw to pull the smoke up and out. In such cases, adding a chimney cap or extending the flue may help.
If you’re not sure what’s causing your smoky fireplace issues, it’s best to have a professional chimney inspection completed as soon as possible. Our techs can assess structural problems, improper flue sizing, or liner damage that may be affecting the draft, and then address it, ensuring your fireplace operates as safely and efficiently as possible
Why Does My Fireplace Smell Bad, Even When It’s Not in Use?
A lingering odor from your fireplace, even when it’s not in use, is usually caused by creosote buildup, moisture issues, or negative air pressure in your home.
- Creosote and soot left inside the chimney absorb odors, which can become stronger in warm, humid weather. If the chimney hasn’t been cleaned recently, a professional sweeping can help eliminate these smells.
- Moisture intrusion is another common culprit. If rain or snow enters the chimney, it can mix with soot and create a musty or damp smell. A damaged chimney cap, missing crown, or deteriorating masonry can allow water to seep in, so ensuring your chimney is properly sealed and waterproofed to help prevent moisture-related odors.
- Negative air pressure inside your home can also pull chimney odors into living spaces. This often happens when exhaust fans, HVAC systems, or kitchen vents create suction, drawing air down through the chimney instead of allowing it to vent naturally. Installing a glass fireplace door or a top-sealing damper can help prevent this issue.
- If the smell resembles rotting food or animals, a bird or small animal may have become trapped and died inside the chimney. This requires immediate removal and possibly the installation of a chimney cap to prevent future intrusions.
- Gas fireplaces can develop odors due to dust accumulation on burners or logs. If you notice a chemical or burning smell, turning off the fireplace and having it professionally serviced is recommended.
Routine cleaning, moisture control, and proper ventilation can help minimize odors and keep your fireplace smelling fresher year-round.
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For Quality Chimney Repair Services Near Great Falls, VA, Reach Out
For quality chimney repair services near Great Falls, VA, trust our experienced team to keep your fireplace and chimney in top condition. Whether you need routine maintenance, masonry repairs, or a full inspection, we are committed to providing reliable, professional service to ensure your home stays safer and warmer.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference of expert chimney care near you.
