Many people opt for gas fireplaces due to their convenience. Gas fireplaces require no wood burning and don’t put off any ash. They need fewer regular cleanings and in general need less maintenance.
Modern fireplaces can also be controlled remotely and start instantaneously, so homeowners who want to be able to manage their homes and enjoy fires in a short time love them. Just because they are lower maintenance than wood fireplaces does not mean they are problem-free.
They come with their own problems specific to gas-powered systems. Homeowners often report hissing noises or whistling from the fireplaces and don’t know what’s causing them.
Luckily, gas fireplaces are simple enough that most repairs can be done without having to call a repair technician. However, homeowners need to remember that if a problem persists or is concerning enough to cause worry, it’s a good idea to call a professional service to do an inspection.
Why Gas Fireplaces Make Noise – Hissing Noises are Typically No Big Deal
Noise emanating from what’s supposed to be a soothing fire can be irritating. People pay top dollar for fireplaces and get frustrated when they don’t work correctly.
One common issue reported with gas fireplaces is hissing. The good news is that this kind of noise is usually a simple repair and doesn’t require expensive replacement parts.
Here are some basic steps to take if your gas fireplace making noise:
- It may seem obvious, but of course the fireplace should be off before any maintenance is ever done. Turn the gas source off before any repairs.
- Find the pilot light inside the lighting mechanism. They are often in hard to see spots, so use a flashlight if you can’t see it easily.
- The hissing could be the result of gas not being burned off because the pilot light is too low. The pilot light should be approximately the height of the flame on a cigarette lighter. If something seems off with the gas fireplace pilot light, shut off the gas source and twist the screw next to the pilot light to either lift or lower its height. Most gas fireplaces list a recommended pilot light height you should adhere to.
- Finally, turn the gas back on to ensure the pilot light is the correct height and the hissing noise has disappeared.
Whistling Usually Result of Bad Tubing
Whistling gas fireplaces are often the result of copper or aluminum tubing that isn’t smooth on the inside. Movement through the tubing isn’t streamlined, so they put off noise.
Here are some basic steps to fix whistling:
- Again, turn of the gas before any gas fireplace repairs.
- Find the fuel line tubing. It can be located by looking for metal tubes that end near the pilot light. The tubes feed gas into the pilot light that starts the flame which feed the fireplace.
- Make sure the fittings of the fuel line are attached securely. If they are loose or not attached correctly, that could be causing the problem. If they are on nicely, then the problem is in the tubing. Twist the fittings off.
- Take out the tubing.
- Purchase similarly sized copper or aluminum tubing at a local hardware store. It’s a good idea to opt for tubing slightly larger in diameter than the old tubing. The larger tube will make it easier for gas to flow through so there’s less chance whistling will happen again.
- Turn the gas back on and make sure everything’s working great!
Obstructions in Gas Supply can also Cause Noise
Even though gas fireplaces require less maintenance than woodburning fireplaces, they still need to be serviced. Over time, dirt, dust, or any other object that obstructs any part of the fireplace can trigger annoying noises.
They can also eventually impact the fireplace’s function. Noises occur because the high-pressure flow of the gas through the tubing is disrupted. In order to avoid obstructions, make sure to keep the fireplace as clean as possible.
If the above solutions don’t work and the noise is still occurring, then the help of a professional is required. They have the experience and know-how to deal with supply obstructions.
Build Quality is a Noise Factor
Unfortunately, sometimes people pay for a gas fireplace only to have a noise pop up months after it’s installed. They can check the tubing, the pilot light, and have a service company come by for an inspection to no avail.
Certain gas fireplaces make noise because they have lower build quality. Their components and the way they are put together are not the highest available, so wear and tear come on faster than with more expensive, high-quality gas fireplaces.
Disappointment with a poor-quality fireplace is understandable. Homeowners go through a lengthy and expensive installation process, only to have to sit there and listen to a high-pitched whistling as you sip a glass of wine in front of the fire at night.
Really the only way to eliminate the issue is by upgrading the fireplace system. Homeowners sometimes have success by replacing components piece by piece in hopes that changing a certain fitting or tube will make the noise stop.
The best bet is to bite the bullet and replace the cheaper fireplace with one of better quality.
Having a gas fireplace has a great deal of benefits for home and apartment living. There’s no pile of wood sitting in the corner, and no ash spewing out onto the living room floor carpet.
Homeowners get to enjoy the warmth and atmosphere of a lovely fire without much of the legwork. With the flip of a switch, the fire is on and the mood is set.
As with any home system, gas fireplaces need maintenance and occasionally make noises that can be upsetting to owners who spent so much to have them installed.
Following these steps will take care of most hissing or whistling noises. Gas fireplaces are simple enough that repairs can be DIY, but always consult a professional if there are safety concerns or you’re uncertain where the noise is coming from.
