Why Your Gas Fireplace Sounds Like Wind & How to Fix It

Gas fireplaces can sometimes be accompanied by sounds similar to wind. As a homeowner, you might be curious or even concerned when you hear these noises. These sounds are actually due to the movement of air or gas within or around the fireplace system.

Let’s find out the exact reasons why your gas fireplace sounds like wind, what you can do about it, and when to get professional help.

Why Does My Gas Fireplace Sound Like Wind? 

There are a couple of reasons why your gas fireplace sounds like wind. Here are the most common ones.

1. Air Movement and Ventilation

Most gas fireplaces have a ventilation system that directs combustion gases outside of your house. One reason your gas fireplace sounds like the wind is the movement of air through these vents. This usually happens because the airflow is turbulent or if the vent is partially obstructed.

Additionally, if you notice unusual sounds, it could indicate that your gas fireplace needs repair to ensure it operates efficiently and safely.

Always check your gas fireplace, especially during the heating season, to ensure that the air intake and vent openings are free from debris or buildup. If you find obstructions, remove them immediately or consider hiring a professional to do it.

2. Gas Pressure Imbalance and Flow

The sound could also be due to the flow of gas through the fireplace burner. Incorrect gas pressure settings or fluctuations in the gas supply can create a hissing noise similar to wind or rushing air. This is more noticeable in fireplaces with higher BTU ratings or when the gas flow is adjusted.

Partially closed valves or obstructions in the gas line can also alter the flow of gas, causing turbulence and wind-like noises as the gas moves through the system.

You can check your gas pressure settings using a manometer, a device typically used to measure pressure in gas or liquids. However, the process requires turning on the gas line, which is dangerous, so it’s best to call a professional gas technician who can make accurate adjustments and avoid potential safety risks.

3. Flame Interaction

As the gas burns, the interaction between the flames and the air can produce a whistling sound. This is due to the rapid heating and cooling of the air, which causes it to expand and contract quickly, generating a whoosh sound similar to that of wind.

Certain fireplaces, especially those with narrower or more intricate venting systems, can be more susceptible to this issue. These designs create conditions where the airflow is more restricted, intensifying the pressure differences and amplifying the sound.

4. Expansion and Contraction

The metal components of the fireplace, including the vent pipes, expand and contract as they heat up and cool down. This expansion and contraction can create creaking or popping noises, which, although not exactly like wind, contribute to the overall sound of the fireplace.

Pay attention whenever the fireplace is in operation. If these noises coincide with the heating and cooling cycles, it’s likely the metal components are expanding and contracting. 

However, if the noise becomes excessively loud or persistent, it could mean that some components are loose or damaged. In this case, it’s best to call a professional for further assessment and maintenance.

5. Mechanical Components

Mechanical components within a gas fireplace, such as fans and blowers, can sometimes produce sounds similar to wind. This is often from the fireplace’s normal operation, where the fan and blower circulate warm air into the room or vent exhaust gases outside. However, if these components become worn, unbalanced, or obstructed, the noise can become more pronounced. 

Additionally, if you find that your fireplace switch won’t work, it could be related to these mechanical issues, necessitating a closer inspection.

Visually inspect these components, checking for signs of wear, such as frayed wires or damaged blades. If any dust or debris has accumulated in the fan blades or within the blower housing, clean it right away. 

If you notice any excessive vibrations, grinding, or scraping sounds from the fan when the fireplace is turned on, it might be time to get it checked. Similarly, if the fans or blowers fail to turn on or they operate inconsistently, these indicate mechanical issues that require professional attention. 

6. External Factors

External breezes affecting the chimney or vent can also create noises inside your fireplace. This is especially true for vented fireplaces, where a gust of wind blowing across the chimney or vent opening can influence the draft and gas flow inside the system. This is called backdrafting, which impacts your indoor air quality.

The placement of your fireplace can also amplify or modulate sounds, making operational noises more noticeable.  There could be nearby trees or buildings causing turbulent airflow.

Consider installing a wind guard or wind deflector near the vent opening to redirect or block external gusts. This will reduce their influence on the draft and gas flow inside the fireplace. 

You can also adjust the chimney cap to regulate airflow and prevent backdrafting, minimizing the entry of external air currents. 

How to Troubleshoot the Cause for a Gas Fireplace that Sounds Like Wind 

Now that you know the reasons why your gas fireplace sounds like wind, it’s time to identify the exact reason so you can address the issue appropriately. 

Safety Steps

Before you troubleshoot your gas fireplace, it’s important to prioritize safety to prevent accidents or damage. Follow these safety steps:

• Turn off the gas supply: To reduce the risk of a gas leak or accidental ignition, turn off the gas supply to the fireplace unit before inspecting or working on it.

• Let the fireplace cool down: If the fireplace was recently used, let it cool down completely before you troubleshoot. This will prevent burns and ensure that the metal components have contracted to their resting state.

• Ventilate the area: Open windows and doors to ensure the room is well-ventilated. This allows fresh air to circulate and dissipate any gas that may have leaked.

• Wear protective gear and have the proper tools: Wear protective gloves and eyewear to protect against sharp edges, dust, dirt, and potential debris. Also, make sure you have the correct tools, including:

Tools Needed

• A flashlight or headlamp – for inspecting the interior and exterior parts, especially the dimly lit areas
• Inspection mirror – for viewing hard-to-reach areas
• Multimeter – for checking the electrical components of the fireplace
• Manometer – for measuring gas pressure in the supply line
• Combustible gas detector – to help identify gas leaks in the gas line or connections
• Stethoscope – a listening device to help isolate the source of the noise
• Anemometer – for measuring wind speed 
• Tape measure – for measuring distances for proper venting and clearance according to building codes and manufacturer’s specifications
• Screwdrivers and wrenches – for removing covers, adjusting components, or tightening connections
• Leak detection solution – a soap and water solution for detecting gas leaks around fittings and connections
• Camera or smartphone – for taking photos of hard-to-see areas or for documentation when consulting with experts

Step 1. Inspect the flue 

Start by visually inspecting the flue from both the inside of the fireplace and the exterior vent. Look for any signs of blockage, damage, or wear that could affect airflow. Debris, such as bird nests, can cause blockages, which can alter airflow and create noise.

Step 2. Check the Venting System

Next, inspect the fireplace’s venting system for obstructions. Similar to the flue, this could also be blocked by leaves, debris, animals, and bird nests. Depending on the design of your gas fireplace, you may need to remove panels or go outside of your home to access the venting system. 

Carefully inspect the vent cap and look for signs of blockage. Check the vent pipes themselves for any obstructions or damage. Pay close attention to any bends or elbows in the vent pipes where blockages are most likely to occur.

If you detect any obstructions, carefully remove them using the right tools, such as a brush or vacuum cleaner attachment. Take care not to damage the venting system during this process.

Step 3. Adjust the gas valve

Listen closely to determine if the sound correlates with the gas flow. Variations in gas pressure can cause unusual sounds. If the fireplace has adjustable gas flow, try altering these settings to see if there is a change in the sound.

A manometer will be used to measure gas pressure. However, this process requires that the fireplace be turned so the device can provide an accurate reading, hence the need for professional assistance. These readings are done in small increments, and the device checks the pressure after each adjustment.

First, you’ll have to locate the control panel, which is usually near the bottom of the fireplace, either on the side or underneath. Unscrew the cover of the control panel to access the gas valve, and once it’s exposed, you can use a screwdriver to adjust it.

The gas valve usually has a knob or screw, which can be turned to increase or decrease the flow of gas. If it’s too high or too low compared to the specifications indicated by the manufacturer, you need to turn the screw on the gas valve clockwise to increase pressure or counterclockwise to decrease pressure. 

Manipulating gas appliances this way can be dangerous and should only be done by qualified professionals. You want to avoid overtightening the valve, as this can damage it and cause gas leaks. If you’re unsure about this process,  it’s best to contact a licensed technician.

Step 4. Do an exterior inspection

Check the outside of your fireplace to see if wind patterns could be contributing to the noise. Sometimes, the way the wind hits the chimney or vent can create a whistling or howling sound. 

Additionally, check the vent cap’s positioning to ensure it’s properly installed and oriented to prevent wind from blowing directly into it, which can amplify wind sounds. The cap should be installed at an angle so that its opening faces away from prevailing wind directions.

Check for signs of looseness, rust, or corrosion in the attachment points, and tighten any screws or bolts as needed. If you notice any signs of damage or wear, such as dents, cracks, or deformities, you may need to replace it.

If the fireplace uses a direct vent system, make sure the intake and exhaust pipes are correctly spaced according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Measure the distance between them using a tape measure or ruler. 

Do this by measuring from the center of one pipe to the center of the other pipe and comparing the measurement against the manufacturer’s recommendations. If it doesn’t match, you may need to make adjustments.

Step 5. Damaged or Loose Components

A loose vent pipe or an improperly sealed connection can allow air to escape or enter the fireplace’s airway regularly, creating audible disturbances as the flow of air or gas becomes turbulent. Similarly, damaged gaskets or seals around the fireplace doors or within the venting system can lead to air infiltration, contributing to wind-like noises. The noise level can increase when the fireplace is operating.

If you notice any of these damaged or loose components, you’ll need to tighten or replace worn seals to maintain an efficient working fireplace. Make sure the fireplace is turned off and completely cooled down to avoid burns or injuries as you’re making the adjustments. 

Step 6. Pilot Light and Burner Issues

Pilot light and burner issues often sound like roaring or wind-like noises in your gas fireplace. This is because of irregular gas flow or incomplete combustion. 

If the pilot light is weak or frequently goes out, or if the burner produces an uneven or fluttering flame, fluctuations in the combustion process can mimic a whooshing sound. 

A healthy pilot light and flame will have the following characteristics:

Healthy pilot light:

• It should be a steady blue flame that envelopes the thermocouple or flame sensor
• Burns consistently without flickering or fluttering
• The flame should be strong enough to reliably ignite the burner when called upon

Healthy burner flame:

• Steady blue flame with a well-defined shape
• The flame is evenly distributed across the burner ports, providing uniform heating
• Minimal or no soot or yellow tipping on the flame

On the other hand, problematic pilot light and flame characteristics may include:

Weak or Flickering Pilot Light:

• A weak or flickering pilot light could indicate issues with gas pressure, dirty or obstructed pilot assembly, or a malfunctioning thermocouple or flame sensor.
• Frequent extinguishing indicates problems with the gas supply, thermocouple, or pilot assembly.

Uneven or Fluttering Main Burner Flame:

• An uneven or fluttering main burner flame may indicate issues with gas pressure, improper air mixture, or debris blocking the burner ports.
• Excessive soot or yellow tipping on the flame indicates incomplete combustion, potentially due to a lack of oxygen or a dirty burner assembly.

Carefully inspect the pilot assembly and burner for irregularities. Look for dust, dirt, or debris buildup, as well as signs of corrosion or damage.  Clean the pilot assembly and burner with a soft brush. Do not use abrasive materials, as this could damage the components. 

Also, pay attention to uneven or discolored flame patterns, which indicate incomplete combustion. Unpleasant odors or unusual noises during operation can accompany this.

Then, check the gas pressure, making sure there is no air trapped in the gas lines. You may have irregular gas flow if you experience a weak or inconsistent pilot flame, delayed ignition on the main burner, or fluttering or lifting of the flame. 

If you’re not confident in your ability to diagnose the problem safely, it’s best to contact experienced professionals. They have the tools and expertise to troubleshoot any issues and perform repairs that require immediate attention.

Professional Help and Maintenance

Hiring an experienced professional means you get a multifaceted approach to diagnosing and resolving your gas fireplace issue. They have specialized tools and knowledge to conduct thorough inspections and identify the root cause of the noise. If you have questions about other issues with your fireplace, they can answer them.

A professional can ensure that your vent pipe is properly installed and your gas pressure is within the manufacturer’s specified range. They will also check the integrity of the regulator, seals, and gaskets. Aside from the initial diagnostics, they can work on quality upgrades that can prevent the same issue from happening in the future.

A technician’s meticulous inspection can help pinpoint blockages, leaks, or damage that could be causing wind-like sounds. It’s generally recommended that the gas fireplace be inspected and maintained by a professional at least once a year. Their service can ensure that the fireplace operates efficiently and safely and continues to perform well over time.

Conclusion

Gas fireplaces can produce wind-like sounds for various operational and structural reasons. These could include airflow through the ventilation system, the movement and combustion of gas within the burner, the interactions between the flame and the ambient air, or even wind coming through the chimney or vent. 

Addressing these through regular maintenance not only minimizes such noises but also enhances your fireplace’s lifespan and ensures household safety. 

Prioritize your fireplace’s care to safeguard and enjoy the warmth of your home with peace of mind.