Fireplace Services in Des Moines & Grimes, IA

Why Choose Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. for Fireplace Installation & Service

At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., we take your comfort seriously—and that includes the aesthetics and function of your fireplace. Our certified technicians are trained to handle every aspect of fireplace care, from safe installations to advanced diagnostics and cleaning. Whether you’re upgrading your hearth or troubleshooting a faulty pilot light, we’re here to help.

We work with all major fireplace styles and brands, including gas, electric, and custom-built solutions. Plus, our commitment to safety ensures your fireplace not only looks great—but performs reliably through every season.

Full-Service Fireplace Solutions

No two homes or preferences are alike, which is why we offer a variety of customizable fireplace services:

• Gas Fireplace Installation & Conversion: Enjoy the beauty of a real flame with the push of a button. We install new gas fireplaces and can convert existing wood-burning units to clean, efficient gas systems.
• Electric Fireplace Installation: Add instant ambiance with minimal maintenance. Ideal for modern homes, apartments, or supplemental heating needs.
• Gas Log Sets & Inserts: Customize your hearth with realistic gas log sets and direct vent or vent-free inserts to improve heating performance.
• Fireplace Repairs: From pilot light failures to ignition system problems, our team can restore safe operation quickly and efficiently.
• Annual Fireplace Maintenance: Keep your fireplace safe and efficient with regular inspections, cleaning, and performance checks.

Our team delivers clean installations, fast diagnostics, and smart upgrades to fit your home’s layout and aesthetic.

Built for Comfort, Backed by Safety

We understand that your fireplace isn’t just decorative—it’s functional. Our services prioritize both beauty and safety, with every installation or repair following strict local codes and manufacturer specifications.

We test gas lines, check for carbon monoxide leaks, and ensure proper ventilation with every visit. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities, and our team is equipped with the knowledge and certifications to back that up.

Stay warm and worry-free—trust Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. for safe, stylish, and high-performing fireplaces.

Honest Advice, Transparent Service

As a family-run business, we believe in honesty and lasting customer relationships. We don’t push products you don’t need or tack on surprise charges. Instead, we provide straightforward recommendations tailored to your goals, style, and budget.

You’ll know exactly what to expect—every step of the way. Whether we’re performing a simple tune-up or helping you design a new hearth, we treat your home with the care and attention it deserves.

Let us bring warmth, beauty, and efficiency into your living space—get started with Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. today.

Common Fireplace Problems in Des Moines & Grimes Homes

Fireplaces are a timeless feature in many Iowa homes, adding beauty, comfort, and supplementary heat. But without regular maintenance and proper installation, they can also become a source of frustration or even a safety hazard. At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., we help homeowners across Des Moines and Grimes navigate common fireplace issues to keep their systems safe, efficient, and enjoyable.

One of the most frequent issues we encounter is pilot light failure in gas fireplaces. This can be caused by dirty thermocouples, faulty gas valves, or weak pilot assemblies. When the pilot light won’t stay lit, the fireplace becomes inoperable—especially frustrating during colder months.

Ignition problems are another widespread concern. Whether it’s a worn-out ignition module, dead batteries in a remote system, or a malfunctioning wall switch, these issues prevent the flame from igniting properly, making your fireplace unreliable when you need it most.

We also frequently resolve venting issues, which can affect both traditional and modern systems. Poor ventilation may lead to smoke backups, inefficient burning, or dangerous carbon monoxide buildup. In direct-vent and vent-free systems, blocked or damaged components can prevent combustion gases from exiting safely.

Soot buildup and dirty burners reduce fireplace efficiency and lead to unpleasant odors. These problems are often caused by a lack of annual maintenance or improper air-to-fuel ratios. In some cases, soot can even stain surrounding walls and mantels, requiring costly cleaning or repair.

With electric fireplaces, common issues include unresponsive controls, flickering flame displays, or failed heating elements. While these units are low maintenance compared to gas options, they still require occasional diagnostics and part replacement.

Finally, older fireplaces—especially wood-burning conversions or DIY installations—may suffer from deteriorated fireboxes, cracked flue liners, or aging components that no longer meet modern safety standards. These defects can pose serious risks if not addressed by a trained technician.

Experiencing issues with your fireplace? Book a diagnostic service with Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. and restore warmth and safety to your home.

Major Fireplace Systems & How They Work

Fireplaces may appear simple on the surface, but behind the scenes, they rely on a combination of specialized components and technologies to deliver comfort and safety. Whether you have a gas log set, electric unit, or custom-built hearth, here’s a breakdown of the major systems we inspect, install, and maintain at Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc..

Gas Fireplace Systems

• Burner Assembly: Delivers a consistent gas flame. Includes burner tray, pilot assembly, and gas line connections.
• Pilot Light & Thermocouple: Ignites the burner and confirms that the flame is present. A malfunction here often results in the system failing to stay lit.
• Ignition System: Can be manual, electronic, wall switch-based, or remote-controlled. Responsible for initiating the flame on demand.
• Gas Valve & Regulator: Controls gas flow and pressure. Worn valves or regulators can cause inconsistent flame performance or shutoffs.
• Ventilation System: Direct-vent models use a sealed pipe to exhaust combustion gases and bring in fresh air. Vent-free units circulate combustion byproducts into the home and require sensors for safety.
• Carbon Monoxide Sensors: Some models include integrated detectors or rely on external alarms to ensure indoor air quality.

Electric Fireplace Systems

• Heating Element: A metal coil or ceramic heater provides radiant or fan-forced heat.
• Flame Display Module: Simulates flickering flames using LED lights, mirrors, or holographic elements.
• Blower Fan: Distributes heated air into the room. Often connected to thermostat settings for automatic control.
• Control System: Touchscreen, remote, or wall-mounted control panel for flame settings, temperature, and timer functions.
• Circuit Board: Coordinates power and user input. Damage here can disable the entire unit.

Venting & Exhaust Systems

• Chimneys & Flues: Essential in traditional wood-burning or converted gas fireplaces. Cracked or blocked flues reduce draft and increase smoke risk.
• Direct-Vent Pipes: Feature dual chambers—one for intake, one for exhaust—used in modern gas units. Faults here lead to performance and safety problems.
• Vent-Free Configurations: Must meet indoor air quality guidelines and use oxygen depletion sensors (ODS) to shut off gas if oxygen drops too low.

Controls & Automation

• Wall Switches & Thermostats: Enable users to adjust heat and flame with convenience. Wall switches can wear out, and thermostats may drift out of calibration.
• Remote Controls: Offer advanced options like timer settings, dimmable flames, and sleep modes. Battery failures or signal loss are common service issues.
• Smart Fireplace Integration: Newer units can be tied into home automation systems, requiring Wi-Fi modules, app syncing, and firmware updates.

Aesthetic & Safety Components

• Gas Log Sets: Designed to mimic the look of burning wood. Must be properly placed and compatible with your burner for optimal flame.
• Glass Doors & Safety Screens: Prevent accidental burns and protect small children and pets. Must be sealed properly to contain radiant heat.
• Surrounds, Mantels & Finishes: From stone to wood trim, these components complete the look of your hearth while providing heat protection.

Need help with any of these systems? Our experienced technicians at Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. are ready to keep your fireplace working safely and beautifully.

Why System Integration & Maintenance Matter

Your fireplace is part of a larger indoor comfort system. Its performance can affect room temperature, humidity levels, and even indoor air quality. For example, a malfunctioning direct-vent system can reduce airflow to your HVAC, while a soot-producing burner can aggravate allergies and reduce efficiency.

At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., we don’t just address individual parts—we evaluate how your fireplace fits into the overall safety and comfort of your home. Our comprehensive inspections include gas pressure checks, ventilation diagnostics, safety sensor testing, and visual inspections of all finishes and seals.

Whether you’re installing a new unit or servicing an older one, regular maintenance and professional support ensure maximum performance with minimal risk.

Keep your fireplace performing beautifully—schedule your full-system inspection or upgrade consultation with Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. today.

Comprehensive Fireplace Services Overview

At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., we take pride in offering a complete range of fireplace services to homeowners across Des Moines and Grimes. Whether you’re looking to install a brand-new unit, maintain an existing one, or troubleshoot a performance issue, our experienced technicians are here to help you create a warm, safe, and stylish space.

This section outlines each of our fireplace services in detail—including when to consider them, why they matter, and what’s included.

Gas Fireplace Installation & Conversion

When to Consider: You’re upgrading from a wood-burning fireplace, remodeling your home, or seeking the ambiance of a real flame without the mess of traditional logs.

Why Important: Gas fireplaces are energy-efficient, easy to use, and cleaner than wood-burning options. Converting to gas increases heating control and eliminates the need for storing and hauling firewood.

What’s Included:

• Inspection of existing fireplace/chimney structure
• Gas line installation or modification
• Direct-vent or vent-free unit setup
• Custom log set selection and placement
• Safety testing and code compliance verification

Electric Fireplace Installation

When to Consider: Ideal for modern homes, apartments, or rooms without chimneys—especially if you want ambiance with minimal maintenance.

Why Important: Electric fireplaces provide supplemental heat and visual appeal, with low installation and operational costs. They’re also a safe option for homes with children or pets.

What’s Included:

• Electrical circuit review and dedicated line setup (if needed)
• Mounting or insert fitting for wall or cabinet
• Wiring and control configuration
• Flame and heat setting calibration

Fireplace Repairs

When to Consider: Your fireplace isn’t igniting, produces strange odors, or flames are uneven and inconsistent.

Why Important: Repairs restore functionality and safety. Unresolved issues like faulty ignition or gas leaks can create fire hazards or air quality problems.

What’s Included:

• Diagnosis of gas, ignition, electrical, or mechanical failures
• Cleaning or replacement of burners, valves, or pilot assemblies
• Control system repairs (wall switch, remote, or smart interface)
• Safety inspection of flue or vent (if applicable)

Fireplace Maintenance

When to Consider: Once per year, preferably before peak winter usage. Also after any long periods of disuse.

Why Important: Regular maintenance improves efficiency, extends system life, and prevents carbon monoxide issues, soot buildup, or ignition failure.

What’s Included:

• Inspection of burners, logs, and venting systems
• Cleaning of burners and glass doors
• Pilot and thermocouple testing
• Adjustment of flame height and control settings

Gas Log Sets & Inserts

When to Consider: You want to refresh an existing fireplace or boost heat output while maintaining a realistic look.

Why Important: Upgrading log sets or inserts increases heat efficiency and aesthetics without major structural changes. Direct-vent and vent-free inserts can dramatically improve zone heating.

What’s Included:

• Selection of log style and burner system
• Insert sizing and fit assessment
• Installation and gas line connection
• Venting updates or sealing, if required

Smart Fireplace Controls & Upgrades

When to Consider: If you’re looking for remote control convenience, scheduling features, or full smart home integration.

Why Important: Modern control upgrades increase comfort and flexibility while offering energy savings. Smart controls also improve accessibility for seniors or mobility-limited users.

What’s Included:

• Thermostat or smart controller installation
• System integration with Wi-Fi or home automation platforms
• Programming guidance and mobile app walkthrough
• Safety verification and testing

At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., we combine technical expertise, aesthetic understanding, and code-compliant safety practices to help you get the most from your fireplace. Whether you’re heating a room or transforming your living space’s focal point, we deliver comfort you can see and feel.