Improper Combistion?

[Jon mackay]

This gas fireplace insert appeared top have some issues. It was very very dirty at the underside so I was thinking that it may not be getting enough combustion air.
There is black soot on the glass and at the chimney area.

[Bruce Breedlove]

The deposits on the inside of the glass are an indication of improper venting. If left on the glass they will permanently etch the glass. The soot deposits at the top of the chimney may also be an indication of improper venting. I would recommend the FP and chimney be serviced (cleaned and inspected) by a qualified chimney sweep. I would also recommend that the chimney sweep check the FP and chimney for proper venting and make any needed improvements.

[Bob Harper]

The deposits on the inside of the glass are an indication of improper venting. If left on the glass they will permanently etch the glass. The soot deposits at the top of the chimney may also be an indication of improper venting. I would recommend the FP and chimney be serviced (cleaned and inspected) by a qualified chimney sweep. I would also recommend that the chimney sweep check the FP and chimney for proper venting and make any needed improvements.

Bruce, from what I'm seeing there appears to be some white film on the inside of the glass and possibly some soot. Neither of which are soley related to venting issues. The film is normal with all gas fireplaces. Sooting can be caused by a lot of issues such as improper log placement, low inlet gas pressure, high manifold gas pressure, too many embers, low primary air, too much secondary air, clogged burner ports, cracked burner, mislaligned burner mixer tube, etc., etc.

Normally, chimney sweeps are not trained or qualified to service gas hearth appliances. However, you may find one who is NFI Certified in Gas and possibly certified by a mfr. There are a growing number of service companies who specialize in gas hearth appliance service and would probably be your best choice.

Regardless, the appliance mfr. and model need to be determined to reference the correct manual in order to determine if the venting is correct. I am not familiar with this vent termination or model so I cannot comment on specifics as none of us should without further info.

Yes, referral to a qualified technician (which probably is not a chimney sweep).

Bob

[Rick Hurst]

Nice looking car in the drive next door.