What is the difference between a gas fireplace, a gas insert, and gas logs?

Gas Fireplace – A gas fireplace is built into the wall with framing and drywall.

Gas Insert – A gas insert is placed into an existing masonry fireplace and has venting installed into the chimney.

Gas Logs – Gas logs are installed into an existing factory built fireplace or an existing masonry fireplace

What is a “vented” gas fireplace?

A vented fireplace has a vent that allows the exhaust to exit the house.

What is a “vent free” or “unvented” fireplace?

A vent free or unvented fireplace does not have a vent. The exhaust is released into the home.

Is a vent free fireplace safe to use?

A vent free unit will produce excess water vapor, carbon monoxide, and odor into the house. This is why they are outlawed in some states. *Refer to your owner’s manual for operating procedures.

What is the difference between a wood fireplace and a wood insert?

A wood burning fireplace is open faced and most of the heat will go up the chimney.
A wood burning insert or wood burning stove is a sealed unit which will heat the house.

What is a chimney cap?

A chimney cap is used to prevent rain and animals from getting into the fireplace. It also keeps sparks from escaping the chimney.

What is a chase top?

A chase top is a metal cover on top of a wood/siding chimney chase. (A chase is the wood structure enclosing the metal pipe.)

Does a gas fireplace need to be serviced?

Yes, the manufacturers recommend annual service to be performed by a certified technician.

Does FLAME-TECH® clean chimneys?

Yes, we clean (sweep) both wood and oil chimneys.

How often does my chimney need to be cleaned?

Minimum of one time per year, or one time per cord of wood burned.

When is the best time to have my chimney cleaned?

When you have your last fire for the winter. That way it’s done and ready for the next burn season.

I have a gas appliance, does my chimney still need to be cleaned?

Not usually. However, the appliance does require service.

Does FLAME-TECH® sell and install fireplaces?

Yes, we are a dealer for all of the top brands and provide installation from start to finish.

Does FLAME-TECH® service and fix gas fireplaces?

Yes, that is our main focus, we stock most repair parts on our service trucks.

Why do I have cold air coming in through my fireplace?

With a masonry fireplace, cold air can be pulled down the chimney into the room.

With a gas fireplace, the cold air is usually due to no insulation or not enough insulation in the walls around the unit. Cold air does not come through the vent of a gas fireplace.

Does FLAME-TECH® offer a service plan?

Yes, we have three levels to choose from. Check out our service plans.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Cash, Check, MasterCard and Visa.

Do you offer financing?

Yes, our financing is offered through Enerbank. Check out the available options and get more details.

My pilot is out, does that mean that gas is leaking into my home?

No, but you can shut off the gas if you’re concerned.

I smell gas coming from my gas fireplace, what should I do?

Shut the gas off to the unit, and call for service.

Is there a charge for FLAME-TECH® to come see why my fireplace isn’t working?

Yes, we’re sending a trained technician in a stocked service truck to diagnose the fireplace.

Do you repair chimneys?

Yes, we can handle small repairs up to rebuilds.

Do you service fireplaces that you didn’t install?

Yes.

I already purchased a unit from someone else, will you install it?

Yes, we will need to come out to look at the site and the unit being installed to provide a quote. There is an estimate fee for this.

Can a blower/fan be installed into my fireplace?

Maybe, depends on what fireplace you have. While many of the fireplaces will accept a fan, there are also many that will not. A fan also requires electricity.

Birds and squirrels are getting into my chimney/fireplace, how can I prevent that?

A chimney cap or screen will prevent critters from getting into your chimney/fireplace.

Will my gas fireplace work during a power outage?

Most fireplaces installed today will work without power, excluding the blower. Some older units will not.