Evacuate your home immediately if you smell gas—that distinctive rotten egg odor means danger. Once you’re safely outside, call RG&E’s 24-hour emergency line at 1-800-743-1701 from a neighbor’s phone or cell phone away from the building. Never turn electrical switches on or off, light matches, or use any device that could create a spark when ... Read more

Verify your electrical clearances meet code requirements before installing or upgrading any fireplace system—the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) and National Electrical Code (NEC) establish different standards, and homeowners working with fireplaces need to understand which applies to their project. The NESC governs utility company infrastructure and outdoor power lines, while the NEC controls residential ... Read more

Inspect your fireplace’s electrical connections every six months for frayed wires, scorch marks, or loose outlets that could spark a devastating fire in your home. These visual cues often appear weeks before a serious incident, giving you precious time to act. Check that your gas fireplace’s electrical components meet current National Electrical Code standards, particularly ... Read more

Understanding combustion air venting requirements now prevents dangerous carbon monoxide buildup, failed inspections, and costly retrofits later. Every fireplace and fuel-burning appliance in your home needs two things to operate safely: adequate air to fuel the fire and a clear path to remove toxic gases. Without proper ventilation, these appliances can’t burn efficiently and may ... Read more

Measure the distance between your fireplace opening and any combustible materials like hardwood floors, area rugs, or furniture—this space, known as safety clearance, determines whether your hearth setup meets fire codes and protects your home from heat damage. For most wood-burning fireplaces, you’ll need a minimum of 16 inches of non-combustible hearth extension in front ... Read more