Winter is just around the corner, and now’s a good time to start thinking about fireplace maintenance. If you have a gas fireplace, you might wonder if you should get a chimney. After all, gas is odorless and produces very little soot, so what’s the purpose of the chimney?
The most important thing to remember about chimneys is that they’re designed to eliminate unwanted byproducts of the wood burning in your fireplace. Hence, regardless of your fireplace type, they all need a chimney.
A chimney is also used as a vent for your fireplace, so that warm air doesn’t escape from inside your home.
Let’s take a closer look at why qualified chimney professionals suggest installing a chimney system if you have a gas fireplace.
1. To Prevent Deadly Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large quantities. A gas fireplace not adequately ventilated can release large amounts of carbon monoxide into the home, putting the occupants at risk of poisoning. A chimney for your gas fireplace can allow the carbon monoxide to escape into the atmosphere.
2. To Prevent Fires
Another reason why gas fireplaces need chimneys is to prevent fires. If a gas fireplace is not properly vented, the build-up of gases can cause a fire. A chimney provides a safe way for these gases to escape, preventing a fire from occurring. The adequate airflow also ensures minimum creosote buildup inside the fireplace. You’ll still need a yearly chimney inspection, but the risk of potential fires will significantly reduce when you install a chimney.
3. To Improve Indoor Air Quality
Another benefit of having a chimney on a gas fireplace is that it can help improve indoor air quality. The combustion of gases can release harmful pollutants into the air. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis. A chimney releases these pollutants outdoors, where they will not harm indoor air quality.
4. To Reduce Energy Costs
When a fireplace is not properly ventilated, heat can escape through the cracks and crevices around the fireplace. This wasted heat results in higher energy bills for the homeowner. By installing a chimney, you can minimize heat loss and lower energy costs.
In addition, this helps the HVAC system installed in the house works efficiently.
Image text: living-room-interior
Alt image text: A fireplace installed in a living room
5. To Reduce Noise Pollution
Another benefit of having a chimney on a gas fireplace is that it can help reduce noise pollution. Because of improper ventilation, the combustion of gases has an unsteady rate of expansion inside the gas fireplace, which consequently ends up making loud noises
These noises can be disruptive to both the occupants of the home and the neighbors. The noise level is reduced by having a chimney which will ensure proper airflow, making it more peaceful for everyone involved.
6. To Vent Carbon Dioxide Out
Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of burning natural gas and greenhouse gas. It can become toxic in high concentrations and pose health risks to your family. Carbon dioxide also needs to be vented out of the room through the chimney so that it does not accumulate inside your home and harm you or your family’s health over time.
7. To Increase Curb Appeal
A well-designed and well-maintained chimney adds visual interest to a home and makes it more attractive to potential buyers. Therefore, in addition to protecting you from safety hazards, a beautifully designed chimney will add value to your house and increase curb appeal.
8. To Comply With Building Codes
In many areas, building codes require that gas fireplaces have chimneys. These codes are in place to protect both the occupants of the home and the surrounding community from the dangers posed by improperly ventilated gas fireplaces.
If your current fireplace does not appeal to you, it’s time you get in touch with Creative Masonry & Chimney. They’ve been offering fireplace remodeling services in CT. Whether you’re looking for veneer, or brick fireplaces, they’ve got everything.
They also have a chimney sweep division, one of the finest in Connecticut. With services such as chimney repair and chimney sweep and cleaning. They’ll ensure keeping your chimney in excellent condition.