Best Way to Fix My Fireplace
Best way to fix my fireplace. Oh, no! What’s wrong with my fireplace?A fireplace is a welcome asset to any home. But, like anything else, it needs regular care and maintenance to keep it in its best shape. It’s worth noting that different types of fireplaces have different issues. Here are some of the most common problems with three types of fireplaces and possible solutions to get you up and running again.
Common Wood Fireplace Problems
Damper Closed
Before you start a fire, be sure your damper is open. If you can’t tell, shine a flashlight up the chimney to see if the damper plate is closed or open. Occasionally a damper can get stuck in a closed position due to soot or rust buildup. You can fix it with vigorous scrubbing using a wire brush. Make sure to wear safety goggles and old clothing.
Dirty or Obstructed Chimney
You will need a chimney sweep to come in and clean your chimney. A chimney sweep will also check the chimney for possible obstructions like tree branches or a bird’s nest. If your chimney cap is dirty, smoke won’t exit your chimney correctly.
Common Gas Fireplace Problems
Pilot Light is Out
If the pilot light is out, follow the instructions in your fireplace’s manual to reignite it. Pilot lights can go out easily, even from a gust of wind. However, if you find the pilot going out often, it may be the thermopile or thermocouple, and you should contact a professional.
Filmy Glass
You must clean your glass fairly regularly, or residue will build up on it. If you leave it for too long, you will not be able to remove it completely. Do not use an ammonia-based cleaner, as it will etch the glass, and you will have to replace it.
Common Electric Fireplace Problems
Unit Won’t Turn On
Make sure the unit is plugged directly into the wall socket and the power switch is on. Don’t plug an electric fireplace into an extension cord. If it is plugged into an extension cord, unplug it and replug the unit directly into a wall socket. If the fireplace still isn’t coming on,
- Check to make sure it’s not in a confined space.
- Doesn’t have any obstructions
- Components are clean
- If the unit has a remote, change the remote’s batteries and see if the unit will turn on from the remote. Also, try the power button on the unit again.
- Check for bad wiring, such as a bent or overstretched cord.
- Use another wall socket.
- Replace the fuse on the fireplace.
- Check the fuse box or breaker for any tripped switches.
Unit Won’t Heat
Make sure the unit is plugged into the wall, and the power switch is on. Next, turn on the switch or switches that operate the heater. In some cases, all switches must be on for the unit to emit heat on the highest setting.
If your unit has a thermostat, make sure it’s set to above what your room temperature is, or the heat won’t come on.
Make sure the unit’s inlet and outlet are clean. If the inlet is blocked, it won’t circulate the cooler air through the unit. If the outlet is blocked, it won’t produce heat.
Ensure the heater element inside the unit and the blower are clean. If the heating element has burned out, you will need to replace it.
The Best Fireplace Repair in Indianapolis
These are just a few of the most common things that can go wrong with a fireplace. Unfortunately, there are plenty more. If you ever have a problem you’re having difficulty diagnosing or fixing, you should always call a professional for support.
Have a question about your fireplace? Don’t hesitate to contact Brick + Ember Outfitters of Indianapolis to help you with all of your fireplace needs. Don’t wait. Call us today at 317-500-1250, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have about your fireplace and its functionality.
What to Look For in a Certified Chimney Sweep
It’s time to have your chimney inspected. Who should you hire for the job? What qualities should you look for in a certified chimney sweep?
Reliability
Look for online reviews about your chimney sweep. Chances are, an underperforming chimney sweep or one who overcharges will have a trail of reviews to prove it. On the other hand, a great chimney sweep should have glowing testimonials. Check out company websites, Yelp, and Google Reviews.
How a Chimney Flue Works
For Indianapolis homeowners with a fireplace, understanding the basic components of a chimney is important. Knowing the primary parts of your chimney will allow you to be a more responsible fireplace owner and give you a base for identifying issues.
The Process of Fireplace and Chimney Inspections
It’s about that time again, time for your annual fireplace and chimney inspection. “Really?” you say. “Wasn’t that guy just here? Was it that long ago? Why do we need an annual inspection, anyway?”
The short answer is safety. Your expert technician will investigate any problems there may be with the chimney that could be hazardous to you or your family.
The Average Lifespan of a Chimney Liner
The average lifespan of a chimney liner. To keep your chimney in great shape for many years, you’ll need a high-quality, durable chimney liner. The chimney liner, or flue liner, is installed inside of the chimney, and it helps protect your chimney walls. Whether you already have a liner or are looking for one now, you’ll want to know how long it will last.
Fireplace Installation Must-Haves
Fireplace installation must-haves. There’s nothing like a home improvement project to get you in a good mood. If you’re having a new fireplace installed, perhaps you’ve thought about the things you might need to care for it and make it unique. Here are some of the essentials you need for a new fireplace.
Wood-Burning Fireplace
If it’s cozy and traditional you’re going for, you can’t do better than a wood-burning fireplace. If you’ve invested in a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll no doubt want some of the accessories that go with it, for functional purposes or to dress up your hearth, or both. You’ve patiently endured the installation process, now comes the fun part!
Fireplace Tool Set
For a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll want a fireplace tool set. These consist of a brush, poker, log tongs, and a shovel. The brush is to sweep up ash and keep the area clean. The poker moves logs to improve the burning process. The shovel removes ashes from the fireplace, and the tongs are for moving burning logs around and adding new logs.
Fireplace Doors
Fireplace doors are a good safety measure for wood-burning fireplaces because they contain the fire’s sparks and embers. They are also useful in boosting the fire’s efficiency and limiting heat loss.
Fireplace Blower
A fireplace blower accelerates the heating process using convection to draw cooler air into and blow hot air out of the fire box. A blower can significantly enhance your fireplace’s heating ability.
Gas Fireplace
You won’t need a fireplace tool set for your gas fireplace, but there are still plenty of nifty accouterments you can purchase to enhance the functionality and ambience of your new addition. Here are just a few of the most essential.
Remote Controls
Remote controls are excellent for convenience. You can tend to your fire without even getting up. Some are wall-mountable and Bluetooth enabled.
Decorative Liners
Just the thing to spruce up your firebox, you can get decorative liners in metal, ceramic, refractory cement, porcelain, and brick.
Trim Kits and Facades
Add trim to your fireplace to frame it and make it stand out. When it comes to facades, there are many materials you can choose from, such as brick, stone, ceramic tiles, marble, or slate. It all depends on your personal preferences and the style of the rest of your house.
Electric Fireplace
Electric fireplaces are fantastic in their versatility. You can move them from room to room, and they work beautifully in small homes and apartments. They are the lowest maintenance of the three types of fireplaces described here. Can you still buy accessories for your electric fireplace? Absolutely!
Remote Controls
Remotes have pretty much the same benefits for an electric fireplace as they do for a gas fireplace. You can control your fire from wherever you are. Sometimes remote controls are included with your fireplace.
Glass Media
Glass media is made from crushed ceramic glass. You can get it in all different shapes, colors, and styles for a contemporary look.
Fronts
Fronts are overlays to enhance the outside of your fireplace. Like with facades, you have plenty of options, from wood to ceramic, brick to marble. Time to get creative!
Your Indianapolis Fireplace Installation Experts
A fireplace is an asset to your home, no matter the type. If you’re thinking about having a fireplace installed, choose Brick + Ember Outfitters of Indianapolis to answer any questions you may have about the process. Our installation and design teams will work together with you to build the fireplace you’ve always dreamed of. Give us a call at 317-500-1250 or make an appointment directly on our website.
Sales Position
Working at Brick + Ember Outfitters, means working for the leading fireplace and masonry company in our industry within the Indianapolis area. We pride ourselves in “exceeding expectations at all costs.” We are looking to hire a Sales Representative to join the Brick + Ember Outfitters team. If you're serious about your next job, Brick + Ember Outfitters is an ideal company for you. Apply today!
Responsibilities for Sales Representative
- Adhere to B+E’s mission, vision, and core values
- Follow a proven sales process and methodology
- Listen actively to customer needs and provide appropriate solutions
- Track all sales activities in company CRM system and keep current by updating accounts regularly
- Collaborate with production and operations teams to ensure customer receives the best experience possible
- Meet regularly with Sales Manager to review performance
- Maintain a well-developed pipeline of prospects
- Develop strong, ongoing relationships with prospects and customers
- Meet and/or exceed monthly and yearly sales goals
- Obtain and maintain Certified Chimney Sweep and applicable Gas Technician Certifications
- Manage 10-20 sales leads per week
- 3-6 Months of on the job Training
- Depending on Season, be responsible for a mix of both sales and service appointments. During sweep/burn season the sales outfitter will be responsible for both sales and service technician appointments (2-3 days of each).
Qualifications for Sales Representative
- Bachelor's degree in either sales, marketing, or business is preferred but not required
- Sales Experience preferred but not required
- Comfortable in both blue collar and white collar settings
- Must be a person of high integrity/character
- Excellent interpersonal skills required
- Highly self-motivated
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Proficient in use of iOS and other Apple Products
- Working knowledge of or quick study in Service Titan CRM
- Comfortable navigating roofs of all pitches and heights
- Valid Driver’s License
- Pass Background Check
Salary & Benefits
- Strong Incentive Based Pay Structure
- iPad and iPhone provided by company
- Truck/Van provided by company with fuel card
- 6 Paid Holidays and generous PTO allotment
If you want to apply for this position, please send your resume to nate@cmoutfitters.com.
We Are the Certified Chimney Sweep
We are the certified chimney sweep. The Indianapolis burning season is right around the corner, which means you need your annual chimney sweep and inspection if you haven’t already gotten it. Your chimney sweep and inspection will clear your chimney from debris and creosote buildup, making sure it runs efficiently and reducing the chances of a chimney fire.
Preparing for Winter with Fireplace Repair
Preparing for winter with fireplace repair. Indianapolis winter is fast approaching, and that means it’s time to prepare your home. While you’re making your winter checklist, you must think about your fireplace. If you’re fortunate enough to have a fireplace in your Indianapolis home, then you’ll certainly want to enjoy its warmth and comfort during the chilly winter months. That’s why fireplace repair should be on the top of your list for preparing for this winter.
Purchasing a Gas to Wood Fireplace
Purchasing a gas to wood fireplace. You have a gas fireplace in your home. But what if you yearn for more? Let’s face it. There’s nothing like the warm glow of a roaring wood fire.
So, is it possible to convert a gas fireplace to a wood fireplace? The short answer is yes, but you have to have the appropriate setup.