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Napoleon · Gas fireplace troubleshooting

Exhaust fumes smelled in room / occupants get headaches

What is going on

Combustion fumes are entering the room. The fireplace is spilling. Can also be odour from first-fire paint curing.

Likely causes

  • Door seal or relief flap seal leaking
  • Blocked chimney/vent
  • Paint curing not yet complete (new unit)

Check in this order

  1. Warning: headaches with fume smell can indicate carbon monoxide - shut the unit off, ventilate, and test for CO before further operation.
  2. Check the door seal and the relief flap seal; repair or replace gaskets.
  3. Check the vent/chimney for blockage.
  4. On a new unit confirm the paint curing (burn-in) process has been completed.

Applies to: Napoleon GD70 STARfire direct-vent fireplace (GD70NT-S natural gas, GD70PT-S propane)

More gas fireplace guides

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Source: Napoleon GD70NT-S / GD70PT-S Installation & Operating Instructions W415-0434, Troubleshooting table, p.25. Written in our own words; check the manual for your exact model.

For licensed technicians. Gas, electrical and refrigerant work must be done by a qualified, licensed person. Shut off power and gas before servicing, never bypass a safety control, and follow the manufacturer’s manual for the exact model; it and local codes always take priority. HVACopedia is not affiliated with any manufacturer; brand and model names only identify the equipment.