Fireplace Services
Gas & Wood Burning
Gas fireplace repair, wood burning fireplace service, and everything in between. Licensed WA gas technicians. Free estimates on all work.
Our Fireplace Services
Whether you have a gas insert, a ventless unit, or a traditional wood-burning fireplace, we service it correctly and safely.
Gas Fireplace Repair & Service
Pilot lights, ignition systems, thermocouples, blowers, gas valves, and annual tune-ups. All major brands — Napoleon, Heat & Glo, Heatilator, Valor, Montigo and more.
- Pilot light repair & replacement
- Ignition system diagnosis
- Thermocouple replacement
- Blower & fan repair
- Annual safety tune-up
Wood Burning Fireplace Service
Firebox repair, insert installation, damper service, and brick refacing. We keep wood-burning systems safe and efficient for Seattle homeowners.
- Firebox repair & rebuilding
- Insert installation
- Damper repair & replacement
- Brick & surround refacing
Gas vs. Wood Burning: What Your Fireplace Needs
Gas and wood-burning fireplaces share a living room wall but have almost nothing in common from a service standpoint. Here's what each system requires.
Gas Fireplace Service
Gas fireplaces contain mechanical and electrical components — pilot assemblies, thermocouple and thermopile sensors, gas valves, ignition modules, and blower systems — that need annual inspection by a licensed WA gas technician. The venting system (whether direct-vent, B-vent, or ventless) needs to be checked for obstruction, corrosion, and proper termination.
Carbon monoxide testing on every service visit is standard practice. CO is colorless and odorless — a properly maintained and vented gas appliance is safe; an unmaintained one carries real risk.
- Annual tune-up ($295 flat rate)
- Pilot, thermocouple & ignition service
- Gas valve & pressure check
- CO level testing
- Venting termination inspection
- Controls, remote & thermostat test
Wood Burning Fireplace Service
Wood-burning fireplaces require annual chimney sweeping to remove creosote — the combustible tar-like byproduct of wood combustion that accumulates in the flue. Creosote at Stage 2 or Stage 3 density is a direct chimney fire risk. The NFPA 211 standard calls for annual inspection of all wood-burning chimneys.
Beyond cleaning, wood fireplace service includes inspecting the firebox, damper, smoke chamber, crown, cap, and flashing for deterioration — all of which are accelerated by Seattle's persistent rainfall and freeze-thaw cycles.
- Annual chimney sweep & cleaning
- Level 1, 2, or 3 inspection
- Firebox & damper inspection
- Crown & cap condition check
- Flashing & waterproofing inspection
- Flue liner assessment
Signs Your Fireplace Needs Service
These warning signs apply to both gas and wood-burning fireplaces. Any one of them warrants an inspection before your next use.
Smoke or soot in the room
Smoke should never enter the room during normal operation. If it does, something is wrong — blocked flue, closed damper, downdraft issue, or a structural problem. Don't use the fireplace until it's inspected.
Unusual smell when running
A musty or burning smell from a gas fireplace often indicates dust on the burner (burns off after first use) or a more serious issue. A gas smell requires immediate professional attention. Wood-burning odors between seasons usually indicate creosote buildup.
Gas fireplace won't light
Pilot failure, thermocouple wear, ignition module failure, or a gas supply issue. Most causes are diagnosable and repairable in a single visit.
Visible cracks in the firebox or surround
Refractory mortar cracks, firebox brick separation, or surround damage affect the structural containment of your fireplace. Small cracks grow with heat cycles — address them early.
Water stains near the fireplace
Water staining on ceilings or walls near the chimney typically means flashing failure, a cracked crown, or a missing or damaged chimney cap. Left unaddressed, water infiltration causes significant interior damage.
It's been more than a year
Even without visible symptoms, annual service is the standard recommended by the NFPA for both gas and wood-burning fireplaces. Pre-season inspection before the first use of the year is the right approach.
NFPA 211 Standard
The National Standard for Fireplaces & Chimneys
NFPA 211 — the standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents, and solid fuel-burning appliances — calls for annual inspection of all fireplaces and venting systems. Our inspections follow these standards, and Genesis Home Services is a registered member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG). For home sales, insurance requirements, or peace of mind, we provide written inspection reports.
Fireplace Services FAQ
Common questions about gas and wood-burning fireplace service in Seattle
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Free estimates on all fireplace work. Licensed WA gas technicians. No pressure, no hidden fees.