How do I know if my chimney is safe?

• <div><p>There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:</p><ul><li><p>Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney</p></li><li><p>Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance</p></li><li><p>Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox</p></li><li><p>Water stains in or around the fireplace</p></li><li><p>A broken or stuck damper</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Q: How much does a chimney cap cost?

• <div><p>A <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/cost-replace-cap-and-3-feet-bricks-chimney.htm">chimney cap costs</a> about <b>$300 on average</b>. The prices range from about $75 to $1,000, depending on the material, size, any repairs needed, and if your chimney cap requires custom fabrication. Chimney caps are usually made from galvanized steel, copper, or stainless steel. Additional costs may include hiring a chimney sweep to clean the chimney before a cap is installed. </p></div>

Q: How tall are chimney caps typically?

• <div><p>Ideally, your chimney cap should be at least 8 inches above the top of the flue, though it's better if it's even higher. You want it to sit that high because it won't affect the chimney's draft, which pulls the smoke up and out of your chimney and away from your home.</p></div>

Q: How long do pellet stoves last?

• <div><p>A quality pellet stove that receives proper maintenance should last you about 15 to 20 years. However, how long a pellet stove lasts depends on how well you care for it over the years and how often you call on it for heat. Proper maintenance&mdash;including cleaning the vents periodically, vacuuming the ash pan when it gets full, and refreshing the pellets when needed&mdash;can help your pellet stove last longer.</p></div>

Q: How effective are wood-burning stoves?

• <div><p>Modern wood-burning stoves are very effective, reaching around 80% efficiency. That&rsquo;s because models built after 1988 are designed to meet standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to operate more efficiently and produce less air pollution. If you have an older wood stove, it may not be as efficient.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Gas Fireplace Service pros in Houtzdale, PA

*The Angi rating for Gas Fireplace Service companies in Houtzdale, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Gas Fireplace Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Gas Fireplace Service companies in Houtzdale, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Gas Fireplace Service needs.

Last update on November 24, 2025

Reviewed in July 2025
I loved the customer service for this company. I called, their guy came the same week and got everything done in one visit. I needed to replace a couple of roof tiles. Very efficifnty
ROOFX
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Reviewed in August 2021
I needed my remote control system for the fireplace to be fixed. The technican showed up on time, was friendly and profesional. I was told that the remote control system cannot be fixed and that a new one wiykd be around $2,000. Suggested that I connect the gas line directly to the pilot...
Eco Grizzly
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Reviewed in April 2017
FOUR DAYS LATER…..I got in my car to go to work and when I stepped on the gas pedal, it felt like the car was hesitating to accelerate. I also heard a loud flapping noise. I thought maybe a belt got thrown off. I took the car back to have it checked and I’ll admit I was FURIOUS after spending...
Firestone Complete Auto Care Store
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Reviewed in December 2015
Very pleased with the prompt professional service. Brad even called back to ask if the unit was working properly.
ALLIED MECHANICAL & ELECTRICAL
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Reviewed in July 2015
I have no headaches, and I get one bill for everything. They provide great service. I have the greenest lawn on the block.
Perfect Image Pool and Lawns Service
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Reviewed in March 2015
Everything was fine. The staff was nice enough. The service was on time. You should go there coz they sell Hondas and Hondas are awesome cars.
DIX HONDA CO
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Reviewed in February 2015
I called because the gas was going off when I turned on the gas logs of the fireplace. He came within the hour on a Saturday, explained and showed what the problem was and how it would be repaired. He then returned the logs in a nice fashion and cleaned up all debris. A very satisfactory...
ALL WEATHER MECHANICAL
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Reviewed in June 2014
Excellent Very Please with the service. Did not sale parts that were not needed.
Tire Town
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Reviewed in September 2013
great mechanics and great service
Joel Confer Toyota Scion BMW
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Reviewed in July 2013
IN OCT/NOV 2008 Calvin D Pierce Heating and Cooling installed two York heat pump systems (2 ton each for heating and cooling) and fiberglass duct work (and branches) was installed. One unit takes care of the second floor, while the other takes care of the first floor and the basement. Each...
Calvin D Pierce Heating and Cooling
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Gas Fireplace Service questions, answered by experts

A chimney cap costs about $300 on average. The prices range from about $75 to $1,000, depending on the material, size, any repairs needed, and if your chimney cap requires custom fabrication. Chimney caps are usually made from galvanized steel, copper, or stainless steel. Additional costs may include hiring a chimney sweep to clean the chimney before a cap is installed.

Ideally, your chimney cap should be at least 8 inches above the top of the flue, though it's better if it's even higher. You want it to sit that high because it won't affect the chimney's draft, which pulls the smoke up and out of your chimney and away from your home.

There are a few things you can look out for to ensure your chimney is safe to use. Check for the following issues:

Cracks or missing pieces in the masonry of the chimney
Creosote buildup in the chimney, which is a black, tar-like substance
Cracks, stains, or scorch marks in the firebox
Water stains in or around the fireplace
A broken or stuck damper

A quality pellet stove that receives proper maintenance should last you about 15 to 20 years. However, how long a pellet stove lasts depends on how well you care for it over the years and how often you call on it for heat. Proper maintenance—including cleaning the vents periodically, vacuuming the ash pan when it gets full, and refreshing the pellets when needed—can help your pellet stove last longer.

Modern wood-burning stoves are very effective, reaching around 80% efficiency. That’s because models built after 1988 are designed to meet standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to operate more efficiently and produce less air pollution. If you have an older wood stove, it may not be as efficient.

The Houtzdale, PA homeowners’ guide to gas fireplace services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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