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A well-constructed and regularly maintained brick chimney can last 50 to 100 years, potentially spanning multiple generations of homeowners. The exact lifespan depends on the quality of construction, materials, local environment, and maintenance. In contrast, a metal chimney typically lasts 15 to 20 years. While the main structure is durable, individual components have shorter lifespans and require more frequent replacement. For example, mortar may need repointing every 20 to 30 years, chimney crowns last 50 to 75 years, and liners can last anywhere from 15 to 50 years depending on the material (e.g., stainless steel vs. cast-in-place).

A quality pellet stove that receives proper maintenance can last between 15 and 20 years, while most will last at least 10 years. The exact lifespan depends on factors like frequency of use and how well the stove is cared for. Proper maintenance—such as periodically cleaning the vents, vacuuming the ash pan, and refreshing the pellets as needed—can significantly extend its life, making it a worthwhile long-term investment.

To ensure your wood stove heats the whole house, measure the square footage of your home and choose a wood stove designed to heat that amount of space. More efficient wood stoves, such as those made of soapstone or those with catalytic combustors, can more easily heat larger spaces for less money.

There are a few things you can keep an eye out for that indicate you may need to call in a gas fireplace repair tech:

• Your fireplace pilot light won’t stay on.

• You notice the smell of rotten eggs.

• You hear hissing coming from the gas fireplace.

• You notice a soot build-up.

• The fire goes out unexpectedly.

If you notice a rotten egg smell or hear hissing, you could have a gas leak, which is extremely dangerous. Call the fire department and your gas company first to shut off the gas and air out your home before calling for a repair.