Gas Fireplace Smells Like Chemicals or Burning Plastic! How to Solve?

When you first start after installing a gas fireplace, or when you turn on a gas fireplace for the first time to protect yourself from the winter cold after spending a long time with the summer warmth, it’s very natural that you’ll get an odor. but, if the gas fireplace smells like chemicals, it may not be normal so.

It may also result from combustion, which occurs when natural gas burns with insufficient oxygen to maintain its stability without producing heat. As you install these units in your home for supplemental heating during colder months, it’s important for you to understand what you’re smelling and if this could be dangerous. The smell that you normally get is the result of not using the fireplace for a long time. Don’t worry, it’ll just go away.

Although it’s rare for gas to leak into your natural gas fireplace, it can happen. There are many reasons why you can get odors from your fireplaces. Some of these are temporary, don’t worry about them, they will just go away after a while.

But, if you find your gas fireplace smells like chemicals/ plastic or rotten eggs, you can’t and shouldn’t avoid these. Need to take quick action.

Gas Fireplace Smells Like Burning Dust!

Less used items like household furniture, especially fireplaces, collect dust over time. This is more so when your air filter system allows air to pass around the filter and when you don’t have a high-efficiency air cleaner. So when the fireplace burns for the first time, the heat exchanger that has been collecting dust for a long time will burn. Sometimes it can also emit small amounts of carbon monoxide. This odor is usually not permanent, it burns away once or twice.

Also, you can get this smell even if your fireplace or chimney is dirty. Keep the fireplace and chimney clean regularly, you can use baking soda to clean them.

One notable thing is, if there are no other problems, this odor should go away after the fireplace is lit first. If it doesn’t move, worry, be careful, and fix it quickly.

Gas Fireplace Smells Like Chemicals or Burning Plastic!

First, if you are sure that the smell of gas you get is strong, chances are it is the smell of a factory chemical or paint. It might even smell like plastic. However, the smell is deadly and toxic. It’ll take you some time to burn any of its debris. Then cool it completely before you light it again. You can keep the doors and windows open during the first few days. If you get the smell again, it’s unusual.

There are many reasons to get a chemical smell in your gas fireplace. First, you need to understand if the fireplace is running too much or if it’s not enough to keep it at a suitable temperature. Then, any leaks in the exhaust pipe should be inspected and made sure that all venting is working properly.

It should be ensured that there is no spillage from other appliances near the oil-filled radiators which can create the same kind of fog if they are in high heat.
Many times the efficiency of the type of fuel you are burning and when the fire is set at too high a temperature also produces excess carbon monoxide (CO) emissions.

One of the reasons for this smell is that the fireplace doesn’t burn for a certain period of time. You can get the smell if all the debris inside is not burnt properly. You can try this for the first time by lighting a gas fireplace for at least 12-14 hours.

The smell of some fireplaces is so strong that if you want to avoid it you have no choice but to replace it. Such as a vent-free gas fireplace. Vent-free is great for heating and at the same time harmful for asthma. In other words, it will give you more heat and more difficulty in breathing. This is especially good for patients with asthma or shortness of breath.

Never burn ventless gas logs in this situation, and open the damper of any fireplace with your chimney. It’s best to open some windows.

So, if you feel the smell coming out after burning the chemicals that they put inside the gas for the smell, the unit needs to be repaired quickly. You should contact a suitable gas service provider as soon as possible. It’s also possible that the unit has not been installed properly or that a log has moved out of place.

The presence of leakage of natural gas often spreads the smell of rotten eggs. But if it smells like something burning, it’s not natural gas, it’s probably burning some residual oil or dust residue. Pets and dust are often the cause of unusual odors.

Clean your fireplace regularly, and make sure there are no bird nests or barriers in your fireplace chimney.

Gas Fireplace Smells Like Rotten Eggs!

Modern gas fireplaces can emit a variety of odors. There are various reasons for this. Some odors are normal, or slight, which is nothing to worry about. Natural gas is naturally odorless in itself, but it sometimes smells like rotten eggs.

To detect the presence of gas or leaks in the house, a chemical called mercaptan is added to the gas. It basically smells unusual but isn’t harmful. If you think the smell is intense and smells like rotten eggs,  it can be very dangerous. You should leave your place immediately and contact your local utility service. It’s important to take proper precautions.

The smell of rotten eggs can be an indicator of a serious problem at home. The two most common sources of this odor are arrows, one of which is a natural gas leak, the other of which comes out of the sewage gas. 

If you detect a foul odor in rotten eggs, you’ll find toxic substances in them, including hydrogen sulfide and methane. You need to find the source. If you can’t find the exact source, call a home inspector or plumber. This could be due to any potential gas leakage.

You should check the draft in the chimney. If you have a backdraft problem or any obstruction, you may get unexpected combustion gases at home. But it only stinks since it’s a gas log. Can be quickly tested with a small newspaper in a tin. This gives you an idea of ​​how much to draw the unit. In this case, the simple fix is ​​to open a window.

FAQs

Why does my gas fireplace smell when first turned on?

When you first turn on your gas fireplace, you may notice a smell. This is often due to dust and other particles that have accumulated in the fireplace burning off. It’s usually not a cause for concern unless the smell persists.

What can cause my gas fireplace to smell like chemicals?

If your gas fireplace smells like chemicals, it could be due to the combustion of gas or the burning off of factory finishes. If the smell persists, it could indicate a problem with the venting or a gas leak, which should be addressed immediately.

How can I make my gas fireplace smell better?

To make your gas fireplace smell better, ensure it is clean and well-maintained. Regularly remove dust and debris, and consider using a fireplace deodorizer. If the smell persists, it may be worth having a professional inspect it.

Is it normal to get a headache from the odor of a gas fireplace?

No, it’s not normal to get a headache from the odor of a gas fireplace. If you’re experiencing this, it could indicate a problem such as a gas leak or improper venting. Seek professional help immediately.

Why can I smell gas from my fireplace when it’s off?

If you can smell gas from your fireplace when it’s off, it could indicate a gas leak. This is a serious issue that needs immediate attention. Turn off the gas supply, evacuate the premises, and contact a professional.

Why does my gas fireplace smell like kerosene?

If your gas fireplace smells like kerosene, it could be due to the type of gas being used or a problem with the fireplace itself. It’s best to have a professional inspect it to ensure there’s no risk of a gas leak or other issues.

Can a gas fireplace smell like burning wood?

Yes, a gas fireplace can sometimes smell like burning wood, especially if it’s a gas log fireplace designed to mimic a wood-burning one. However, if the smell is strong or unusual, it’s best to have it checked by a professional.

Summary

So, if your gas fireplace emits an unusual odor, it’s essential to identify the cause and address it. Various reasons can lead to distinct smells emanating from your fireplace.

When you first turn on your gas fireplace, it might emit a smell resembling burning plastic. This can be due to particles of dust and other debris that have accumulated in your fireplace, which burn off when the fireplace is lit. If your gas fireplace smells like burning wood, it might be intensifying odors already present in the air. Air quality issues are often the root cause of strong gas fireplace odors.

Some homeowners notice a musty smell, which can arise if the fireplace hasn’t been cleaned for a while or if it’s new. Ventless gas fireplaces, in particular, can give off a sulfur-like odor under these conditions. Detecting a chemical or metallic odor could indicate the presence of dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide. It’s worth noting that the smell associated with some gas appliances isn’t natural. It’s added to the gas to make leaks easier to detect.

If your fireplace smells like propane or gas when burning, it’s vital to ensure there are no leaks. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help reduce unwanted odors and ensure your fireplace operates safely and efficiently. If ever in doubt, consulting a professional is always a wise decision.

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