Home Garden

How to Fix a Squeaky Electric Fireplace

An electric fireplace provides the charm of a wood-burning fireplace but without the hassles of coal, ash and soot. Available in a variety of sizes and designs, electric fireplaces replicate the vision and sound of a burning fire. However, improper maintenance, years of use and general wear may cause the fireplace to produce squeaking or clicking sounds that distract from its charm.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver or wrench
  • Vacuum cleaner or clean cloth
  • Lubricant
  • Fan belt (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off the electric fireplace and unplug its switch from the wall outlet.

    • 2

      Inspect the base of the fireplace for loose hardware connections that may be responsible for the squeaking sound. Tighten loose screws with a screwdriver or use a wrench to tighten loose bolts.

    • 3

      Inspect the blower for accumulated dirt or debris that could be responsible for the noise. A fan or blower is likely to accumulate dust or lint over time. Depending on its assembly, you may need to remove the front grill from the assembly so you can access to the blower. Vacuum the blower or wipe it with a clean dust cloth to remove accumulated dirt, so it blows out air noiselessly.

    • 4

      Inspect the tubes that connect different components of the electric fireplace and identify any that are bent. Grasp the bent tubing with a wrench or screwdriver and turn it around, back to its original position. Alternatively, tap the bent tube gently with a hammer until it resumes it original shape.

    • 5

      Loosen and remove the screws that hold the fireplace’s back panel in place, exposing the main rod. Set the hardware and back plate aside so you mount it after the inspection and repair. A rod that is not lubricated does not move smoothly and makes squeaking sounds. Follow label directions when applying an industrial lubricant evenly over the rod, ensuring it is properly covered.

    • 6

      Remove screws that hold the access panel to the fireplace, exposing the fan belt. A misaligned, worn-out or old fan belt may be causing the squeaky sound. Replace the fan belt if it is worn out or realign the belt to its original position to stop the squeaking sound. Adjust the belt if it is too tight or loose. Replace the screws to secure the access panel to the fireplace. Tighten the screws with a screwdriver, since loose screws can cause the fireplace to make a rattling or squeaking sound.