Professional Fireplace Maintenance and Repair Services

Since 1968, Custom Fireside has been serving Sacramento with a dedicated team of factory trained technicians certified by the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).  We understand that our customers have made a significant investment in a new fireplace, stove, fire pit, or chimney and we are committed to servicing your product over its lifetime, including warranty work, annual service, and any necessary repairs.  We offer services to customers who bought a product from Custom Fireside and customers who did not but need our expertise.  Call or Schedule your service today! 

  • Gas Fireplace Service

    Manufacturer recommended preventative maintenance on your fireplace including comprehensive inspection of parts, glass cleaning, and ember replacement. For Custom Fireside Customers only.

    $169

  • Wood/Pellet Stove Service

    Full cleaning from chimney to bottom of the stove with inspection of stove components for ensure full efficiency and functionality.

    $210

  • Fireplace Maintenance

    If you did not buy your fireplace from Custom Fireside, do not worry we can still come and provide our 57 year expertise to your fireplace with full fireplace check up and if we can get the parts we can fix your fireplace.

    $300

1 of 3
  • Factory-Trained Expertise

    Our technicians are rigorously
    trained to factory standards.

  • NFI-Certified Specialists

    Certified in gas, wood, and pellet appliances
    by the National Fireplace Institute.

  • Comprehensive Warranty

    All products are backed by full on-site
    warranty service at no additional cost.

Fireplace Repair & Maintenance

Keeping your fireplace in top condition ensures safety, efficiency, and comfort in your home. Our expert team offers a range of repair and maintenance services, from comprehensive annual inspections to component repairs, glass cleaning, and chimney care. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your fireplace but also enhances performance, so you can enjoy worry-free warmth all season.

Need your fireplace serviced? We offer...

  • Annual Fireplace Inspections – Comprehensive assessments to identify any issues.
  • Fireplace Remote and Control Repairs – Troubleshooting and replacing remotes or control panels.
  • Fireplace Cleaning Services – Removing soot, creosote, and debris from burners, glass, and vents.
  • Fireplace Component Repairs – Fixing or replacing faulty ignition systems, pilot lights, or burners.
  • And More !! - Contact Us to find out how we can help you with your fireplace maintenance or repair.
  • Fireplace or Stove Glass Replacement and Cleaning – Replacing cracked glass or cleaning buildup

If we can get parts then we can service your fireplace.

Warranty

Custom Fireside provides on-site warranty repair service on all gas, pellet, and wood appliances sold within our service area. (Additional mileage or service charges will apply outside our service area which is over 50 miles from either of our store locations). Warranties apply to the original purchaser and vary in length based on the manufacturer and the specific components that need repair or replacement. Please call our service department if warranty service is required.

Areas we service

Custom Fireside serves Sacramento and nearby communities including Roseville, Rocklin, Citrus Heights, Carmichael, Elk Grove, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Davis, Woodland, Lodi, Stockton, Vacaville, Fairfield, Auburn, Placerville, Grass Valley, Yuba City, Nevada City, Jackson, and surrounding Northern California towns—reliable chimney & fireplace services, certified technicians, same-week service, free estimates.

Maintaining Your Fireplace or Stove

Important tasks to maintain your fireplace

Consult your manual for details. Most manufacturers require the appliance to be inspected and cleaned annually by a professionally trained and authorized service person, although customers can perform the service themselves.

Key gas appliance services tasks (consult your product manual for specific details)

  • Control compartments, burners, and circulation air passageways of the appliance must be kept clean of lint, dust, animal hair, etc. Use a vacuum to clean all components.
  • Clean the inside of the glass regularly as soon as you notice the buildup (white film). If the film is left for a long period of time, it will bake on.  (One of the by-products of the combustion process in a gas appliance is a mineral which can show up as a white film on the ceramic glass viewing door.) Use gas fireplace/stove glass cleaner which is available for purchase at Custom Fireside.
  • A periodic check of the pilot and burner flames, and the burner itself, should be made. Embers may need replacement or readjustment
  • Change batteries both in fireplace and remote
  • Replace any light bulbs if needed
  • Inspect venting

Key pellet appliance services tasks

Please note that tasks, and the frequency required, will vary by model. Consult the installation manual for your pellet stove model for details. Generally, a lack of service results in a failure of your stove or insert to light and remain burning, and/or a loss of efficiency.

Daily (every 1-2 bags of pellets)

  • Clean the burn pot, typically, after every bag of pellets. The type of fuel you are burning will dictate how often you have to clean your burn pot. Clean more frequently if you encounter heavy build-up of ash at the recommended interval or you see soot coming from the vent.

Weekly (every 5 bags or more depending upon build-up)

  • Ash pan cleaning depends upon ash build-up
  • Clean inside of window as needed

Monthly

  • Clean igniter chamber as needed. (5-20 bags)

Seasonally (or more depending upon use and fuel quality)

  • Clean heat exchange and combustion exhaust fan after every one ton of fuel or annually
  • Clean circulating/room fan
  • Use a brush to clean the flue

Instructional Videos

Vent Free Fireplaces Sacramento

Wood Stove Maintenance Sacramento

Re-gasketing Wood Stove Sacramento

Placing A TV Above Your Fireplace Sacramento

Cleaning Gas Fireplace Glass

Hearth Sacramento

Wood Stove Venting

Gas Logs, Fire Glass & Beads

Replacing Wood Fireplace Brick Panels

FAQ

What is a gas fireplace service and why do I need it?

A professional gas fireplace service is a comprehensive cleaning, inspection, and tune-up of your gas fireplace system. Over time, gas fireplaces accumulate dust, debris, and residue that can affect performance, efficiency, and safety. Annual gas fireplace servicing ensures your unit is operating correctly, venting properly, and burning cleanly — protecting your home and family throughout the heating season.

How often should a gas fireplace be serviced?

Gas fireplaces should be professionally serviced at least once a year, ideally before the heating season begins. Even if your gas fireplace appears to be working fine, internal components like the burner, pilot assembly, thermocouple, and venting system should be inspected annually by a certified technician to catch potential issues before they become costly repairs or safety hazards.

Is a gas fireplace safer than a wood-burning fireplace?

Gas fireplaces are generally considered safer than wood-burning fireplaces because they produce no creosote, require no wood storage, and can be turned on and off with a switch or remote. However, gas fireplaces still carry risks including carbon monoxide exposure, gas leaks, and venting issues — which is why annual professional inspection and servicing is just as important for gas units as it is for wood-burning fireplaces.

What does a gas fireplace service include?

Our comprehensive gas fireplace service includes cleaning the burner, logs, and glass, inspecting and testing the pilot assembly and thermocouple, checking the ignition system, inspecting the venting system for blockages or damage, testing for gas leaks, and evaluating the overall condition of the unit. After the service, we provide a full report on the condition of your gas fireplace and any recommended repairs.

How long does a gas fireplace service take?

A standard gas fireplace service appointment typically takes 1 to 2 hours depending on the type and condition of the unit. If repairs or parts replacement are needed, additional time may be required. Our technicians work efficiently and thoroughly to minimize disruption to your home.

How do I know if my gas fireplace needs servicing?

Signs that your gas fireplace needs professional attention include a yellow or orange flame instead of blue, difficulty lighting or keeping the pilot lit, unusual odors when the fireplace is running, soot or black residue on the glass or logs, reduced heat output, strange sounds during operation, or a fireplace that shuts off unexpectedly. If you notice any of these issues, schedule a gas fireplace service appointment as soon as possible.

Collapsible row

Can you service all brands of gas fireplaces?

Yes. Our certified technicians are trained to service all major gas fireplace brands including Heat & Glo, Majestic, Napoleon, Regency, Lennox, Heatilator, and more. Whether you have a gas fireplace insert, a freestanding gas stove, or a built-in gas fireplace, we have the expertise and parts to service your unit properly.

Do you service gas fireplace inserts?


Yes. Gas fireplace inserts require the same level of annual maintenance as traditional gas fireplaces. Our technicians are experienced in servicing all types of gas inserts and can also inspect the surrounding masonry and venting connections to ensure everything is safe and functioning correctly.

What are the most common gas fireplace repairs?

The most common gas fireplace repairs we perform include thermocouple and thermopile replacement, igniter repair or replacement, gas valve repair, burner cleaning and adjustment, venting correction, glass gasket replacement, and remote control or wall switch troubleshooting. Many of these repairs can be completed during a single service appointment.



My pilot light won't stay lit — what's wrong?

A pilot light that won't stay lit is most commonly caused by a faulty thermocouple or thermopile — small components that sense the pilot flame and signal the gas valve to stay open. Dust buildup, a weak flame, or a worn-out part can all cause this issue. Our technicians can diagnose and replace these components quickly during a gas fireplace service visit.

How do I clean my gas logs?

If desired, soot may be removed by lightly brushing the logs with a soft-bristled paint brush. We do not recommend removing the logs from the fireplace for cleaning, as this may cause breakage. Do not scrub the logs with water or abrasive cleansers, as this will remove the coloring and chip off the bark texture, and will void your warranty. Do not attempt to clean your logs while the log set is hot!

Is it normal to have black soot build up on gas logs?

Soot build-up on vented gas logs is a normal part of the combustion process, and usually adds to the realism of your log set. Natural gas log sets generally produce less soot than liquid propane log sets. Sooting is not normal on a vent-free gas log set, and if soot is present, the set should be inspected by a hearth professional to verify it is operating properly.

How do I clean the glass on my gas fireplace?

Gas fireplace glass should only be cleaned with a cleaner specifically formulated for ceramic gas fireplace glass. Never use standard household glass cleaners, as they can damage the glass or leave a residue that burns off and creates fumes. For a thorough and safe cleaning, we recommend having the glass professionally cleaned as part of your annual gas fireplace service.



Can you convert my wood-burning fireplace to gas?

Yes. Converting a wood-burning fireplace to gas is one of our most popular services. A gas fireplace insert can be installed into your existing firebox, giving you the warmth and ambiance of a fire with the convenience of gas — no wood, no ash, no creosote. Contact us to schedule a consultation for wood-to-gas fireplace conversion in Sacramento.



What is the difference between a wood stove and a pellet stove?

A wood stove burns natural firewood logs and operates entirely without electricity, making it a reliable heat source even during power outages. A pellet stove burns compressed wood pellets and uses an electric auger system to automatically feed fuel into the burn pot, offering more convenience and precise temperature control. Both types require regular professional maintenance to operate safely and efficiently throughout the heating season.

How often should a wood stove be serviced?

A wood stove should be professionally inspected and serviced at least once a year, ideally before the heating season begins in the fall. Annual wood stove maintenance includes inspecting the flue pipe and chimney connector, checking door gaskets and glass seals, examining the firebox and baffle system, and cleaning out ash and creosote buildup. Regular servicing extends the life of your stove and ensures it operates safely all winter long.

How do I know if my wood stove needs maintenance?

Signs that your wood stove needs professional maintenance include difficulty getting fires started or keeping them burning, smoke entering your living space, a visible gap or crack in the door gasket, cracked or damaged glass, excessive smoke coming from the flue, unusual odors during operation, or visible rust or damage to the stove body or firebox. If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule a wood stove inspection as soon as possible.

What does a professional wood stove service include?

Our professional wood stove service includes a thorough inspection of the flue pipe, chimney connector, and venting system, cleaning of the firebox and flue, inspection and replacement of door gaskets if needed, glass inspection and cleaning, baffle and combustion air system check, catalytic combustor inspection (if applicable), and an overall assessment of the stove's structural condition. We provide a full written report after every service.

How do I maintain my wood stove between professional services?

Between annual professional services, you can maintain your wood stove by regularly removing ash buildup from the firebox — leaving about an inch of ash on the floor as an insulating bed — cleaning the glass with a ceramic-safe cleaner, inspecting the door gasket for wear, burning only properly seasoned hardwood, and visually checking the flue pipe for any signs of damage or separation. Avoid burning trash, treated wood, or green wood, as these produce excess creosote and harmful emissions.

How often should a pellet stove be serviced?

Pellet stoves should be professionally serviced once a year, and many manufacturers recommend additional cleaning every one to two tons of pellets burned. Because pellet stoves have mechanical and electrical components — including auger motors, combustion fans, and circuit boards — they require more frequent attention than wood stoves. Annual professional pellet stove maintenance keeps your unit running efficiently and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during the heating season.

What does a professional pellet stove service include?

Our comprehensive pellet stove service includes cleaning the burn pot, ash pan, heat exchanger, and exhaust venting, inspecting and lubricating the auger motor and feed system, testing the igniter and combustion blower, checking the convection fan and motor, inspecting all gaskets and seals, examining the control board and electrical components, and performing a full operational test to confirm the stove is functioning correctly. We provide a detailed service report after every appointment.

How do I know if my pellet stove needs servicing?

Common signs that your pellet stove needs professional maintenance include difficulty starting or staying lit, excessive ash buildup in the burn pot, unusual noise from the auger or fans, error codes on the control panel, reduced heat output, pellets not feeding properly, a glass door that fogs up quickly, or a strong burning smell during operation. If your pellet stove is showing any of these symptoms, contact us to schedule a pellet stove service appointment.

How do I maintain my pellet stove between professional services?

To keep your pellet stove running smoothly between annual service visits, clean the burn pot and remove ash from the ash pan after every 1–3 days of use, vacuum out the firebox and heat exchange tubes weekly during heavy use, wipe down the glass with a ceramic-safe cleaner, inspect the exhaust venting for blockages, and use only premium-grade pellets with low ash content. Consistent routine cleaning dramatically reduces the chance of mid-season breakdowns and extends the life of your pellet stove.

Why does my pellet stove keep going out or failing to ignite?

A pellet stove that repeatedly fails to ignite or shuts off unexpectedly is most commonly caused by a dirty or clogged burn pot, a failing igniter, an obstructed exhaust vent, a faulty pressure switch or vacuum sensor, or low-quality pellets with high ash content. These issues are typically identified and resolved during a professional pellet stove service. If your stove is shutting down mid-cycle, schedule a service appointment before the problem worsens.