When Your Hearth Appliance Falters, Trust the Expert Replacement Services From Halligan’s Hearth & Home

Why Can’t I Ignite My Gas Fireplace?

It’s important to understand how your gas fireplace functions to be able to identify when it isn’t working the way it’s supposed to. Most gas fireplaces have a pilot light, a gas valve, and an ignition system. The pilot light ignites the gas, the gas valve controls the flow of gas, and the ignition system provides the spark or flame to ignite the pilot light. If one part of the system malfunctions, the fireplace can’t do its job properly. Here’s a breakdown of common reasons your gas fireplace won’t start and troubleshooting tips:

• Pilot light issues. If your pilot light has gone out, relight it immediately following the manufacturer’s specific instructions. If the pilot light appears dirty, clean it carefully using a soft brush or cloth. However, if the issue persists, it may be due to a faulty thermocouple. A damaged or misaligned thermocouple can prevent the gas valve from opening. If you suspect this is the case, reach out to us to set up an appointment.
• Gas supply problems. If your gas appliance isn’t functioning properly, check the gas valve and make sure it’s open. If the valve is open but the appliance still doesn’t work, a blocked gas line may be the culprit. In this instance, contact Halligan’s for inspection and clearing. Additionally, if you’re using a propane appliance, verify that the propane tank isn’t empty. If it is, refill the tank or switch to a full one.
• Igniter issues. If the igniter isn’t sparking, it may need to be replaced. But if your appliance uses a remote control or ignition system powered by batteries, double-check that the batteries have power left. We can replace them if necessary.
• Other common problems. Check the safety switch and reset it if necessary. If the switch continues to trip, there may be an underlying issue that requires our expert attention. To ensure proper ignition, try lighting the fireplace several times to release any trapped air. You can also try checking to see if the fireplace is connected to a functioning outlet and if the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Finally, clean the burner ports with a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any debris that might be preventing proper airflow.

Why Is My Wood-Burning Stove Producing So Much Smoke?

If your wood-burning stove is smoking more than usual, it’s a sign that something is wrong. The Halligan’s Hearth & Home team has encountered a variety of factors that can contribute to this issue many times. A blocked or partially obstructed chimney is a common culprit that can prevent smoke from venting properly.

Another common issue is firewood. The quality of the wood you’re burning plays a significant role in hearth health. Wet or poorly seasoned wood – wood that hasn’t had enough time to dry – often leads to increased smoke production due to incomplete combustion. Insufficient airflow caused by closed or clogged air vents can also contribute to this problem. Our team of skilled technicians is well-versed in diagnosing and addressing these issues. By identifying the root cause, we can ensure your appliance operates optimally, providing the warmth and safety your home requires.

To prevent excessive smoke, it’s important to maintain proper ventilation by keeping the chimney clean and obstruction-free. You should also make it a point to only use dry, seasoned wood to smoke production and creosote buildup. Regularly inspecting and cleaning your stove’s air vents can also help maintain good airflow. If you notice any signs of excessive smoke or other issues with your wood-burning stove, don’t hesitate to contact our experts for professional assistance.

What Are the Most Common Problems With Pellet Stoves?

Pellet stoves are known for their efficiency and convenience, making them a popular choice for heating homes. However, like any heating appliance, they can encounter issues. Here are some common problems: 

• Ignition problems. A faulty igniter might need cleaning or replacement. If there aren’t enough pellets in the hopper or the feed mechanism is malfunctioning, it can also prevent ignition. Power supply issues, such as the stove not being plugged in or a tripped circuit breaker, can also be the cause.
• Pellet feeding issues. A jammed auger can prevent pellets from releasing smoothly, so it’s important to clear any obstructions. The feed rate settings can also be adjusted to help match the desired heat output. If pellets are not reaching the firebox, a blockage in the feed chute may be the issue.
• Poor burn quality. For the best outcome, you should only use high-quality pellets with low ash content. Insufficient air intake can limit combustion, so try adjusting the air intake settings when there is a hiccup. Regular cleaning of the burn pot is necessary to remove clinkers and ash to prevent potential issues and soot buildup.
• Auger motor failure. If your pellet stove’s motor is overheating, it’s important to inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. Addressing underlying issues that may be causing overheating is crucial. If the motor is faulty, it may need to be replaced to get the stove back to working condition. 

Why Does My Fireplace Have a Strange Odor When It’s in Use?

When your fireplace produces an unusual smell, it can be unsettling. Unfortunately, it can be a sign that potential issues are lurking. Common causes include excessive creosote buildup – which can produce a pungent, tar-like odor when heated– and animal intrusion, such as birds nesting or rodents seeking shelter.

Draft issues can also come into play. If smoke is not venting properly, it can cause odors to be pulled back into your home. Moisture in the chimney – combined with soot – can create a musty or sour smell. Whatever the cause, you can trust that our experienced technicians are equipped to carefully check your fireplace and chimney, pinpoint the source of the odor, and offer up effective solutions.

Hearth Appliance Trouble? Call on Halligan’s Hearth & Home

When it comes to your hearth, only the best will do. At Halligan’s Hearth & Home, we take pride in delivering top-notch repair services that not only fix the problem but also enhance the safety and longevity of your appliance. Don’t let a malfunctioning fireplace or stove disrupt the warmth of your home – contact us today at 610-296-8911 to schedule your service and keep your hearth in perfect working order.