RELATED: The Best Carbon Monoxide Detectors for Protecting Your Home. Never leave your gas fireplace unattended while its lit. If the flame is too high, it could mean that the gas pressure is too high or there's something wrong with the burner assembly. The fireplace is constructed in such a way that it does not require venting. If there is a leak, you should call a professional to come and fix it. If you have a gas fireplace, it is important to make sure that it is safe. This can be caused by a variety of things, such as a draft in the room or a dirty flame sensor. A ventless heater will give nearly 100% efficiency converting lpg into heat. In the process, the engineers took the DIN 4734-1 standard into account, defined the technical minimum standard . When burned, the gas emits a cluster of byproducts, many of which can be harmful. A: A gas fireplace is a safe and low-maintenance alternative to wood-burning fireplaces that add a cozy ambiance to the home. (Fireplace Temperature), Why Is My Fireplace Smoking & How to Get Rid of It, Fireplace Dimensions (Gas, Electric & Outdoor Fireplace). Answer, Can 58300 And 58100 Be Billed Together? Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas produced by burning gasoline . What is the Life Expectancy of a Gas Fireplace? For gas and odor removal, the air purifier should be equipped with a filter that includes activated carbon. 4. Even if you opt to clean the fireplace yourself, its still a requirement to have an inspectionyearly, at the very least. "Cars, trucks and SUVs all have one thing in common," said . If you smell gas near your fireplace, this is also a cause for concern. The industry likes the term "vent-free" when talking about gas fireplaces that keep all the exhaust gases in your home. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Learn More: 4 Common Electric Furnace Problems & Their Solutions. Its also worth noting that the glass barriers surrounding gas fireplaces get quite hot, so homeowners with small children or pets will want to stay vigilant when the fireplace is in use to keep everyone at a safe distance. Is a Gas Fireplace Less Dangerous Than a Wood Burning? This is a very common occurrence that can make the fireplace have an odor like smoke or burnt plastic. Be sure to dry the glass completely after cleaning to prevent streaks. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. If you like a roaring fire from autumn all the way through spring, you should conduct or schedule service once a year, ideally early in the summer. However, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that gas fireplaces cause sinus problems. Incomplete combustion can produce harmful chemicals, like carbon monoxide, which can harm your health. Copyright 2023 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious health problems, including death. The good news is that gas fireplaces are actually very safe, and the fumes they produce are not harmful to your health. Opting for an air purifier or changing the HVAC system filters can reduce odors in the home. Therefore, in this very article, I will try to explain how a Gas fireplace can become a real threat to your home safety and how you can prevent that situation. What Are the Dangers of Burning Osage Wood in the Fireplace? Here are some common issues that you may encounter: If your pilot light keeps going out, it could be due to a number of reasons. First and foremost, a gas fireplace should be thoroughly cleaned once or twice a year, depending on how often you use it. Why. Although tests show that gas fireplaces do not increase carbon monoxide levels in your home, its wise to have the detectors if you use any gas appliances at home, including a furnace, a stove or a fireplace. However, excessive odor or a prolonged smell may require extra attention. I think paint should never be used on a mantel for this reason. Exposure to wood-burning smoke can cause asthma attacks and bronchitis and also can aggravate heart and lung disease. In addition to the fireplace smoke that can be released inside the home, research has shown that up to 70% of smoke released via the chimney re-enters your home. Even if there is no noticeable problem, experts recommend setting up a yearly inspection to correct any safety issues and extend the life of your fireplace. Get Free of Debris: Use the hose attachment on your vacuum to clean the interior of your fireplace. If your gas fireplace stops working, there are a few potential reasons why. Either way, its best to call a professional to take a look and make any necessary adjustments. The short answer is yes, they can be. Although the internal operation or work process might vary depending on the type or category of the fireplaces, most Gas fireplaces work in a similar way of operation. By Gretchen Heber and Glenda Taylor and Bob Vila Updated Jan 10, 2022 8:29 PM. You can try cleaning or replacing the thermocouple as a potential fix. How can I tell if I have a gas leak in my fireplace? This can especially be the case with vent-free gas logs. DO leave the flue open so that excess carbon monoxide is vented. While a vented gas fireplace is the most obvious alternative to a ventless gas fireplace, the hassle and expense of a vented fireplace may be something youd like to avoid. 8. You can hear a hissing sound near your fireplace. To clean the pilot light tube, simply remove it from the fireplace and use a paperclip or wire to clear any debris from the opening. While not in use, it is normal for your gas fireplace to accumulate dust, pet hair, dander, and any other debris. Its always a relief when our gas fireplaces are working properly again after a problem. Find Pros Now +. Copyright 2022 - https://heatarrays.com. If your gas fireplace seems out of sorts, schedule a service call as soon as possible. To prevent this, experts recommend having professional fireplace maintenance done once a year, ideally at the end of summer when your fireplace has been dormant the longest. Is Black Soot from Gas Fireplace Dangerous? The gas burner or gas logs in a vented fireplace produce carbon monoxide just like a wood burning fireplace does, so if you have an exhaust spill it could mean that undetected carbon monoxide is entering the home. Do Gas Fireplace Chimneys Need To Be Cleaned? But these fireplaces are designed to operate for only a few hours at a time, and one needs to follow all the manufacturer specs accurately. Related: 7 Best Electric Fireplaces Under $300. Empire Tahoe Deluxe Direct-Vent Fireplace, ProComs Dual Fuel Propane and Natural Gas Fireplace Insert, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). First of all, let's call it what it really is. Gas stoves generate dangerous levels of indoor air pollution and leak climate-changing methane. Both are safe as long as you follow some basic safety tips. These types of logs dont have a chimney or vent to remove the fumes produced by the fire, so the smell is typically stronger. If you have any concerns that your gas fireplace could be leaking natural gas, treat it like an emergency even if youre not sure call your utility company right away and leave the house until someone can come check it out and give the all clear.. There could be an issue with the gas line or other components that require a trained professional to fix. Here are 6 signs that propane fireplace maintenance is needed and what you can do to about each: 1. Electric ignition systems need a separate electrical supply, but some gas fireplaces have pilot flames that work with spark igniters and thermocouples/thermopiles. Yes, fumes from gas fireplaces can be harmful if they are not properly ventilated. There is, however, an alternative: the ventless fireplace. Keep your Gas fireplace turned off whenever it is not in use. Unfortunately, a smell coming from your gas fireplace could mean there is a gas leak, which can cause a house fire or even an explosion. Even though gas fireplaces are relatively low-maintenance, they still need to be cleaned and inspected on a regular basis to ensure safe and efficient operation. Carbon monoxide is the main compound in the gas fireplace fumes. Installing and keeping carbon monoxide detectors working is the number one way to stay safe. Excessive water vapor being emitted from your vent-free gas fireplace can cause your wallpaper to peel, as well as other structural damage. Modern regulators enable the gas to burn cleanly, with minimal production of harmful fumes. Is it normal for a gas fireplace to smell like gas? The Gas fireplace set up also contains faux coals or logs and a glass front to make them more realistic. Oil, propane, and natural gas fired heating systems, gas appliances and fireplaces all release carbon monoxide as they burn and can be health and fire hazards. * Be sure to install a carbon monoxide detector near any gas appliance! We take out more vent-free gas logs than any other appliance. Then when you turn the fireplace on, it smells like burning dust, burning plastic, and sometimes it even smells like burning wood. Fire feeds on oxygen, which can be intermingled with impurities in the air. Reduce wood smoke in your home If the smell persists, check for other signs of a leak. This is a relatively easy repair that you can do yourself if you have some basic handyman skills.Another possibility is that there is a blockage in the flue or chimney. my theory is that the paint which is on the mantel is latex, giving it the "warmed plastic" odor that you get if plastic is melted. Dont overload your fireplace with too much wood. To prevent this from happening, follow the safety guidelines and always be on the alert for these symptoms. Can You Roast Marshmallows On A Gas Fireplace? Ensure the gas is turned off, then try to air out the room. ET. Were able to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of the flames once again, and we dont have to worry about the potential dangers of a fire that isnt burning correctly. Electric or solar are the ways to go. There will be an external vent for waste air with direct vent and natural gas fireplaces. Answer, Why Did Elena Wear A Wig In Season 8? The main concern with gas fireplace fumes is carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Get free, no-commitment repair estimates from licensed HVAC technicians near you. Your model may indicate a specific clearance zone in its manual. Keep a working carbon monoxide detector near the floor close to the fireplace. Generally, most Gas fireplaces are equipped with dedicated gas supplies and Electric ignition systems, which require a separate electrical supply too. How do I know if my gas fireplace is safe to use? To protect your Indoor Air Quality and maintain a clean, safe gas fireplace, follow these fire safety tips: Choose the Proper Fuel Use smaller, dry pieces of wood to ensure a hotter and cleaner burning fire with less smoke. According to a May 2020 review by the Rocky Mountain Institute, homes that use gas stoves have indoor air that is 2-5 times dirtier than outdoors. In addition to the option to create or convert a built-in ventless fireplace, freestanding ventless propane fireplaces are also an option. Ventless fireplaces are more energy efficient than vented fireplaces because no heat escapes up the flue, so youll save money on gas utility bills. If you have a gas fireplace, you may be wondering if the fumes it emits are harmful. Many models have carbon monoxide and oxygen sensors to further ensure safety. Then, the gaseous byproducts are channeled to the outside of the building. A gas fireplace can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, with the average being 15 years. If smoke suddenly builds up in the room where the fireplace is installed. Gas fireplaces are widely popular as an effective way to keep your homes internal atmosphere warm & comfortable in the winter seasons. Gas fireplace on the fritz?Leave it to the pros. Gas fireplaces are easy to enjoy. Frequently, check whether there is any existing sign of dust, dirt, or other debris at your fireplace base and if there is. Gas vs. Electric Fireplace: Whats the Difference? Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. These odors shouldnt last for long one to three hours of burning should do the trick. Inspections of a gas fireplace dont take long to conduct and wont break the bank. 2. If you put ventless logs in a vented fireplace, the fire could still burn too much gas and cause excess toxic fumes without activating the warning detectors. Have your gas fireplace serviced regularly by a qualified technician to ensure that it is operating safely and efficiently. Always use glass doors when burning your fire. If there are no gas leaks, check for other indoor air contaminants such as carbon monoxide or mold.. Incompletely . It is better to have a smoke and carbon monoxide detector installed in your home because it will effectively detect and alert you during the toxic ejection of poisoning gas or smoke. If you install one where its against local codes, you may be asked to remove it and you may be fined for noncompliance with local building codes. This type of odor may occur any time of year with a newly installed unit. If anyone stays in such an atmosphere for too long, it can cause vomiting, mental uneasiness, loss of muscular coordination, unconsciousness, and even death. Best of all, the only thing you need to do to turn it on is flip a switch; there's no gathering, arranging and trying to light wood. Yes, fumes from gas fireplaces can be harmful if they are not properly ventilated. Gas leaks can be very dangerous and should always be addressed by a professional immediately. The same goes for new paint: if it is close to the fireplace, the fumes from normal off-gassing can smell a lot stronger due to the heat. The smell of burning gas can cause sensitivity, headaches, and other issues in some people. While some homeowners may have concerns about whether a ventless gas fireplace is right for their home, improved technologies have made this type of fireplace safer than ever. The carbon monitoring and the other safety precautions found in ventless fireplaces are built into the surrounding system, not the logs themselves. Are Fumes From Gas Fireplaces Harmful? Thats why its important to have it inspected by a professional on a regular basis to make sure its working correctly. 01/27/2022 . A filter like the Blueair SmokeStop is highly efficient at trapping smoke, odors, and other harmful gaseous chemicals. Many gas fireplaces do not have chimneys, but they should have a vent system that releases fumes outdoors rather than into the home. Likewise, should the carbon monoxide detector sense the gas, it will also shut off the fireplace automatically. Ventless fireplaces do not produce soot and. The cancer-causing chemicals benzo(a)pyrene and polyaromatic hydrocarbons can also . Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Most experts recommend that you run a ventless fireplace for no longer than 3 hours at a time, and some suggest running it for only up to 2 hours. Are fumes from gas fireplace harmful? More than anything, its a sign your fireplace is working the way it should. Once a year, inspect the condition of the ventless gas logs and replace any that are cracked, and clean them as recommended in your manual. If you have a gas fireplace, you may be wondering if it needs maintenance. Even gases other than carbon monoxide can cause respiratory problems if they're present in large enough quantities and/or someone in the home has sensitivity to that gas. Gas and wood fireplaces have one thing in common: People need to take proper safety precautions when using them. Yet not everyone is a fan of these newfangled fireplacesin fact, they are banned in some states. If you take these precautions, then you should be able to enjoy your gas fireplace without worry. It means that the fireplace is functioning exactly as it should. Indoor gas fireplace owners forgo the hassle of maintaining a chimney and need only to switch on the gas when they want to enjoy a warm fire. 1. This indicates that there is a problem with the gas mixture and that dangerous gases may be present. Our team of dedicated technologists, experts, and researchers is here to help you make the right decision. Heat the area of the home where you spend the most time (often the great room or basement) with a gas fireplace by turning the thermostat down and the fireplace up. Carbon monoxide is probably the most toxic gas that may be produced by a gas fireplace. The following tips will also help ensure your safety. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), even though ventless fireplaces greatly reduce toxic fumes, they will still release some small amount into the home, which increases the risk of exposure to carbon monoxide. eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. They can be very dangerous if they are the result of a gas leak before it is burned or an exhaust leak that contains carbon monoxide. Because improper ventilated or maintained gas fireplace creates incomplete combustion and produces carbon monoxide, which ultimately causes toxic Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Wood smoke can affect everyone, but the populations known to be at greater risk include: children, teenagers, older adults, people with lung disease -- including asthma and COPD, people with heart disease, outdoor workers, and people of low socioeconomic status, including those who are homeless and with limited access to medical care. 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