Whether you have just installed a new gas fireplace or have noticed that your home’s natural gas consumption is higher than normal, you can increase your gas fireplace efficiency by following some basic tips. Once you’ve implemented these suggestions, look at your monthly gas bill to determine if they’ve been effective.
Request a Gas Fireplace Inspection
Before you make any changes to your gas fireplace, the first order of business involves requesting a gas fireplace inspection from a handyman company in Seattle that offers these services. This inspection allows you to identify problems that might be causing the fireplace to have poor efficiency.
During this process, professionals search for visible signs of damage, which include everything from loose fittings to cracks. These issues must be addressed immediately to keep efficiency high and prevent additional problems. The inspector will also evaluate the condition of the pilot light, ventilation system, burner, and all other components that play a role in efficiency.
During an inspection, professionals also measure the system’s heat output. If the fireplace isn’t properly warming the surrounding area, it could be losing efficiency. Inspecting your fireplace before improving its efficiency makes it possible for you to find and fix all underlying problems. Once you’ve addressed these issues, you can focus on optimizing the system’s performance.
Regulate Airflow with Dampers
You can also enhance fireplace efficiency by installing dampers, which are capable of regulating airflow. These items are metal plates that have a simple installation process. There are two options available to you. For example, you could select a damper to place inside your chimney. The other option involves a top-mounted damper that’s attached to your chimney cap. Dampers are designed to mitigate heat loss.
Regularly Clean and Maintain Fireplace
If you’ve noticed that your system’s efficiency is getting worse, this may be the result of a buildup of debris, soot, and dust in your fireplace. When these substances accumulate, they can obstruct the airflow and make your system less efficient. There are several things you can do to clean and maintain your fireplace.
Consider cleaning the burners and control area, which can be done by removing the logs and burner set from your fireplace. A vacuum cleaner or brush should be enough to get rid of any dirt or dust within this compartment. Make sure any nearby gas ports are free from harmful obstructions.
It’s also a good idea to clean the chimney and vents. These areas can experience a buildup of debris and soot. Doing this work on your own can be dangerous, which is why you should consider hiring a professional handyman company in Seattle that knows how to sweep chimneys.
The glass doors or front of your fireplace should be removed and cleaned as well to enhance the system’s heat transfer capabilities. Some gas fireplaces are equipped with air filters, which should also be cleaned or replaced regularly. If these filters are dirty, they can limit airflow and worsen efficiency.
Add Sealant or Insulation
An additional method you might consider to optimize the efficiency of your fireplace is to add sealing and insulation wherever possible. By eliminating potential air leaks, you can prevent heat loss. You may want to hire a professional to handle this for you.
Numerous areas in a fireplace can benefit from insulation and sealant. For example, insulating the hearth and nearby walls can reduce heat loss considerably. Adding a sealant to the area can help with efficiency as well.
If you hire a professional, they’ll inspect the entire fireplace and chimney system to search for cracks or gaps that require sealing. These gaps can be sealed with heat-resistant caulk. Cracks commonly form along the fireplace walls. However, they can also appear in vents. If your chimney flue isn’t sealed properly, it may be the main reason why the system’s efficiency is getting worse.
You can seal a flue with a chimney balloon or flue sealer, which will keep warm air from getting out of your home. Make sure that the seal is removed before you start a fire. By keeping the heat produced by your gas fireplace inside your home, you’ll reduce energy waste and maximize efficiency.
Gas fireplaces are highly efficient alternatives to wood-burning fireplaces that can help you save money and keep your home warm when the temperatures start to drop. While these systems are designed to maximize efficiency, there are numerous issues that can impact how efficient they are. With these tips in mind, you should be able to improve your gas fireplace efficiency. Call Teamwork Home Services today if you’d like us to inspect your fireplace.
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