We have a small, high-efficiency gas fireplace. You have to have it cleaned from time to time, but at the former service place, we had such terrible experiences to the point we didn't want to go back and so stopped using the fireplace. Finally this fall, I re-checked regional listings for a Buck Stove service provider and found Hall's Pools Spas & Fireplaces. They've been in business almost 30 years; not sure whey they weren't listed before. They are an official Buck Stove dealer as well as for several other brands.
What a refreshing experience! The initial phone call, I had a friendly staff member who provided several options about scheduling and whether to bring the unit in or have their staff come to the house. We brought it in (its very small and semi-portable). The in-store experience was great--the staff quickly examined the unit, patiently asked questions to understand exactly what the problem was that we were experiencing, and gave me an estimate for time and cost, and waited for me to confirm yes, that was fine. I already felt good, but then whoosh, they called the *next day* to say the work was completed, the fireplace was good as new! Different people on the return visit but the same level of knowledgeable, polite friendliness. They reminded me we live in their service area and the charge for them to come out (vs me dragging the unit to them) is nominal.
Now the unit is working great and we are so happy to have a working fireplace again! read more