Common fireplace problems and how to fix them

Bringing warmth, comfort and familiarity to any property, it’s easy to see why fireplaces have always been at the heart of many homes throughout the years. But occasionally they might experience problems, especially if they are old, worn or improperly maintained. 

To make sure your fireplace isn’t out of action for too long, let’s cover the most common fireplace issues and how to fix them. 

6 common fireplace problems and solutions

Creosote buildup

When some fuels burn, they produce tar and soot. This travels up the chimney and is deposited on the walls of the flue. Over time, this flammable creosote builds up, creating a fire risk and potentially resulting in dangerous fumes entering a home. Luckily, this is easy to prevent with a regular chimney sweep service from an expert such as Enviro-Flame. It’s recommended that this is carried out twice a year.

Flue and chimney liner damage

Chimney liners are important for protecting the chimney, but over time, these liners can degrade due to the intense heat they withstand. As such, a chimney inspection can establish if the chimney liner is intact and what material it’s constructed from. Stainless steel will always be a stronger option than clay tile, for example. A damaged flue should be fixed immediately before a fireplace is used again to prevent harmful gases from entering the property.

Blockages

The tops of chimneys are exposed to the outside world, and so understandably they can become blocked from debris, leaves, and even nesting birds. These blockages can sometimes go unnoticed without a professional chimney inspection, so it’s important to book one of these at least once a year to keep on top of any developing issues.

Issues with the pilot light

In the case of gas fires, if it’s not switching on, then it could be an issue with the pilot light. Opening up the vent can reveal if the pilot light has gone out or not. Always follow manufacturer guidance for relighting a pilot light, and if in doubt, get a professional in to do it to keep yourself safe. If the pilot light does not stay lit, this could be caused by a faulty thermocouple which may require replacement or repair. 

Smoke and fumes in the home

If smoke or fumes are backing up into your home, this can be dangerous to human health. There are a few reasons why this could be happening, including chimney liner degradation but also a closed chimney damper. It’s very easy to check your chimney damper, which is usually operated by a pull chain in your fireplace. Make sure the damper remains open when a fire is lit to ensure fumes are exiting your property.

Dirty fireplace

Neglecting cleaning a gas fireplace can result in decreased function and potential harmful fumes building up. In addition to your bi-annual chimney sweep, you should also vacuum up around your fireplace, and give any exposed brick a clean too.

When in doubt

Ultimately, you’ll need a professional to diagnose a problem with any accuracy. A fireplace expert can make use of specialist CCTV cameras to gather evidence of the inner workings of your fire. This coupled with their years of expertise will enable them to quickly pick up on problems and suggest the most effective solution to get your fireplace back on its feet. 

Enviro-Flame is a leading fireplace expert for London, providing a wide range of styles and models of fireplace. We can also provide professional maintenance, cleaning and repair services to guarantee a fully functional fireplace all year round. To find out more about our services, simply get in touch today. Alternatively, book an appointment to visit our extensive showroom in Wimbledon for inspiration.