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Winston’s Chimney Gas Fireplace Services: We’re the Trusted Chimney Company Near Great Falls

If you’re searching for reliable gas fireplace service near Great Falls, VA, look no further than Winston’s Chimney Service. With decades of experience and a commitment to safety, performance, and customer satisfaction, we’re the trusted name homeowners turn to for gas fireplace inspections, cleanings, repairs, and more. Schedule with our experts today.

Do Gas Fireplaces Need Chimney Sweepings?

Yes, gas fireplaces still need regular chimney sweepings – even though they burn cleaner than wood-burning systems. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that gas fireplaces, inserts, and stoves need just as many sweepings as a wood system (at least one per year), but a lot of the same issues can occur. Things like…

  • Ventilation systems can still accumulate debris. Even with clean-burning gas, chimneys can gather dust, dirt, insects, bird nests, or even small animals that may block the flue and restrict airflow.
  • Corrosive byproducts can coat the flue. Gas combustion produces small amounts of water vapor and acidic byproducts, which can combine, condense, and lead to corrosion.
  • Blockages can cause dangerous backdrafting. A blocked or restricted flue can prevent carbon monoxide and other combustion gases from properly exiting the home.
  • Damages can escalate and become more costly to address. Because gas fireplaces don’t produce creosote in the same way as wood-burning units, issues may not be as obvious, making an annual chimney inspection and sweeping the best way to catch hidden problems before they get worse.
  • Manufacturer warranties can become invalid. Many gas fireplace manufacturers require proof of routine maintenance, like sweepings and inspections, to keep warranties valid.
Original infographic displays a question and answer against a dark blue background overlaid with a subtle white dotted pattern. The question, "Do gas fireplaces need chimney sweepings?", is presented in white text within a rounded light gray rectangle, preceded by left-pointing chevrons and the word "QUESTION" in white capital letters. Below this, the word "ANSWER" is written in white capital letters. The answer begins with "Yes - here's why:" followed by a bulleted list of five reasons explaining the necessity of chimney sweepings for gas fireplaces: the accumulation of debris in ventilation systems, the formation of corrosive byproducts, the risk of blockages causing dangerous backdrafting, the potential for escalating damages and costs, and the possible invalidation of manufacturer warranties.

In the end, a clean and well-maintained chimney system will help your gas fireplace perform more efficiently, reducing your energy costs and keeping your family safer and more comfortable. Even if you don’t see any obvious issues, that doesn’t mean your chimney is clear. Book with our experts today.

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What’s Wrong With My Gas Fireplace Pilot Light?

If your gas fireplace pilot light won’t stay lit (or won’t light at all), it can make your evening go from a relaxing evening into a frustrating long night. Here are some of the most common reasons a gas fireplace pilot light might not work:

  • The thermocouple or thermopile may be dirty or faulty. These safety components are responsible for sensing the pilot flame. If they are coated with soot or debris – or if they’re worn out – they can fail to detect the flame and shut off the gas as a precaution.
  • There may be a gas supply issue. If the gas valve is turned off, the gas line is blocked, or there’s a disruption in gas flow, the pilot light won’t ignite or stay lit. This could be due to a closed shutoff valve, a kinked flex line, or an issue with your gas utility service.
  • Air in the gas line can prevent ignition. If the fireplace hasn’t been used in a while, air can enter the gas line. This may require purging the air before the pilot will light consistently.
  • The pilot orifice may be clogged. Dust, pet hair, spider webs, or carbon deposits can clog the small opening where gas exits to ignite the pilot light. Cleaning the orifice carefully may restore normal function.
  • There could be a problem with the ignition system. If your fireplace uses an electronic ignition system instead of a standing pilot, a faulty igniter, low battery, or control board issue could be preventing operation.
  • Drafts or chimney issues can blow out the flame. If your chimney is blocked or pulling too much air, it can create a downdraft that snuffs out the pilot flame. This is especially common in windy areas or when there’s negative air pressure in the home.

If your pilot light issue persists, don’t keep trying to relight it without understanding the cause. Gas appliances are designed with built-in safety features to prevent gas leaks or explosions. It’s best to call a professional who can inspect the components, test the safety sensors, and restore proper function – without the guesswork.

How Is Carbon Monoxide Dangerous?

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be extremely damaging to the health – even deadly – when inhaled in high concentrations. It’s produced whenever fuel is burned, including in gas fireplaces, furnaces, stoves, and vehicles.

Because it’s invisible and undetectable without a specialized alarm, carbon monoxide is often called the “silent killer.”

original dark blue question/answer infographic with text that explains the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. It states that carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells more effectively than oxygen. Consequently, when carbon monoxide is inhaled, it prevents oxygen from binding to hemoglobin. This action deprives vital organs, particularly the brain and heart, of the necessary oxygen to function properly, highlighting the mechanism behind carbon monoxide's dangerous effects.

How is carbon monoxide harmful? Looking at things scientifically, carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body) more effectively than oxygen. This means that when you inhale CO, it prevents oxygen from binding to hemoglobin, depriving your vital organs – especially the brain and heart – of the oxygen they need to function.

Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and fatigue. As exposure increases, symptoms may progress to loss of coordination, unconsciousness, or even death, especially if people are asleep or unaware.

And yes – even low levels of CO can damage your health over time. People with heart disease, respiratory issues, young children, and the elderly are especially vulnerable to long-term effects.

Now, one of the most common causes of carbon monoxide buildup in homes is poor ventilation or malfunctioning appliances. Blocked chimneys, cracked flue liners, or defective gas fireplaces can allow CO to enter living spaces instead of venting outdoors. This is a major reason why keeping up with your gas fireplace servicing is so vital.

To better protect your home, schedule annual inspections for your fireplace, chimney, and any gas appliances. In addition, install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home, especially near sleeping areas.

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Great Falls Chimney Services: Trust Us for Gas Fireplace Maintenance

At Winston’s Chimney Service, we’re proud to be the chimney company Great Falls homeowners trust for dependable, high-quality gas fireplace services near you. From routine tune-ups to complex repairs, our team is here to keep your fireplace running safer and more efficiently all year long. Schedule your appointment today and discover the peace of mind that comes from working with Northern Virginia’s most experienced chimney professionals.