Frequently Asked Questions – RLB SVCS., INC.
Proudly Serving Fairfax, Centreville, Chantilly, Gainesville & All of Northern Virginia
Welcome to the official FAQ section of RLB SVCS., INC., your local experts in gas fireplace installations, gas fireplace repairs, gas inserts, plumbing services, hydronic heating, and boiler systems. We’re a passionate, family-owned company based in Northern Virginia, bringing warmth and comfort to homes with high-efficiency solutions, expert craftsmanship, and unmatched service.
Whether you're upgrading your fireplace, modernizing your boiler, or installing radiant floor heating, you've come to the right place!
Gas Fireplace Installations
1. What are the benefits of installing a gas fireplace in my Northern VA home with RLB SVCS., INC.?
Answer:
At RLB SVCS., INC., we install gas fireplaces that offer:
- Efficient heating with minimal energy loss
- Simple operation—start with a button, wall switch, or remote
- Low maintenance and zero ash or soot buildup
- Multiple design options including traditional, linear, and modern styles
- Increased home value and aesthetic appeal
Perfect for homes in Fairfax, Centreville, Gainesville, and Chantilly, our gas fireplace installations blend warmth with luxury and performance.
2. How much does a gas fireplace installation cost in Fairfax or Gainesville?
Answer:
Typical costs range from $3,500 to $10,000, depending on:
- Model (direct-vent, vent-free, or inserts)
- Gas line extension needs
- Labor and custom finish work
- Permitting and inspection requirements
RLB SVCS., INC. offers free estimates and detailed pricing so you’re never left guessing.
3. Does RLB SVCS., INC. handle permits for gas fireplace installations?
Answer:
Yes! We handle all building permits and code compliance for jurisdictions including Fairfax County, Prince William County, and Loudoun County. Our team works directly with local inspectors to ensure your installation meets safety and structural codes.
4. What types of gas fireplaces do you install?
Answer:
We install:
- Direct-vent fireplaces for high-efficiency, sealed combustion
- Vent-free fireplaces where venting isn’t an option
- Gas fireplace inserts that retrofit into existing masonry fireplaces
- Outdoor and linear fireplaces for patios and modern interiors
We’ll help you select the right fireplace based on your space, style, and heat requirements.
5. How do I choose the right size gas fireplace?
Answer:
We calculate the BTU output based on your home’s square footage and insulation levels. For example:
- Small rooms (200–300 sq ft): ~15,000 BTU
- Medium rooms (400–600 sq ft): 25,000–35,000 BTU
- Open spaces (800+ sq ft): Up to 50,000+ BTU
RLB SVCS., INC. will conduct a full heat-loss analysis to match you with the ideal unit.
Gas Fireplace Repairs & Maintenance
6. What are common gas fireplace problems that RLB SVCS., INC. repairs?
Answer:
We frequently repair:
- Pilot lights that won’t stay lit
- Delayed ignition or no spark
- Weak or yellow flames (indicating improper combustion)
- Thermostat or remote failures
- Soot buildup on glass
We serve homes throughout Centreville, Fairfax, and Gainesville with prompt, reliable fireplace repair service.
7. What’s included in a fireplace tune-up?
Answer:
Our comprehensive gas fireplace service includes:
- Pilot and burner cleaning
- Gas pressure testing
- Glass cleaning and sealing
- Thermocouple and thermopile inspection
- Full system safety check
- Carbon monoxide and gas leak detection
Book your yearly service with RLB SVCS., INC. to ensure optimal performance and safety.
8. How often should I service my gas fireplace?
Answer:
We recommend annual inspections—especially before the heating season begins in late fall. Regular servicing:
- Prevents dangerous carbon monoxide buildup
- Improves heat output
- Extends your fireplace’s lifespan
Gas Fireplace Inserts
9. What’s a gas fireplace insert?
Answer:
A gas insert is a sealed unit that fits into your existing wood-burning fireplace, converting it into a high-efficiency gas heater. We retrofit inserts in homes across Fairfax, Centreville, and Gainesville to eliminate cold drafts and reduce heating costs.
10. How efficient are gas inserts?
Answer:
Most inserts installed by RLB SVCS., INC. reach 70–85% thermal efficiency, significantly outperforming traditional fireplaces, which lose most heat up the chimney.
11. What’s the cost to install a gas insert in Centreville or Fairfax?
Answer:
Expect costs between $2,000–$4,500, which includes:
- Insert unit
- Venting system
- Gas line connection
- Labor and trim finish
- We offer several models from top brands like Napoleon, Heat & Glo, and Regency.
Plumbing, Hydronic Heating & Boilers
12. What is hydronic heating and how does it work?
Answer:
Hydronic heating systems installed by RLB SVCS., INC. circulate heated water through baseboards, radiators, or in-floor coils. This radiant heat offers:
- Silent operation
- Even warmth without forced air
- Allergy-friendly comfort
- Zoned temperature control
Ideal for homes in Gainesville and older residences in Fairfax, it’s one of the most efficient ways to heat a home.
13. Do you install radiant floor heating?
Answer:
Yes! Radiant floor systems are a specialty at RLB SVCS., INC. Whether you’re remodeling a bathroom or heating an entire basement, radiant floors provide luxurious, consistent warmth underfoot.
14. What types of boilers do you install?
Answer:
We install:
- High-efficiency condensing boilers (up to 98% AFUE)
- Cast-iron boilers known for durability
- Combi-boilers for space heating + domestic hot water Brands we work with include Lochinvar, Viessmann, Weil-McLain, and Buderus
15. How much does a boiler installation cost in Fairfax or Gainesville?
Answer:
Typical installation ranges:
- Cast-iron boiler: $5,000–$8,000
- High-efficiency boiler: $7,000–$12,000
- Combi-boiler system: $8,000–$14,000
We provide itemized proposals so you know exactly what’s included.
Boiler & Heating System Maintenance
16. How often should boilers be serviced?
Answer:
RLB SVCS., INC. recommends annual tune-ups to:
- Inspect burners, pressure, and controls
- Flush sediment
- Check venting and expansion tanks
- Prevent costly breakdowns in winter
Radiant floor systems and zone valves should also be tested annually.
17. How long do boilers and hydronic systems last?
Answer:
Cast-iron boilers: 20–30 years
High-efficiency condensing units: 15–20 years
Combi-boilers: 10–15 years
Longevity increases with routine service from certified technicians like ours.
Safety, Code & Compliance
18. Are gas fireplaces and boilers safe?
Answer:
Absolutely—when installed and serviced by professionals like RLB SVCS., INC.. We ensure:
- Proper venting and sealed combustion
- Carbon monoxide safety testing
- Gas leak checks
- Code compliance across all counties
Our technicians are licensed, insured, and factory-certified.
19. What codes must be followed?
Answer:
We follow:
- IRC (International Residential Code)
- NFPA 54 (Gas Piping Code)
- Virginia USBC (Statewide Building Code)
- Local Fairfax, Prince William, and Loudoun county amendments
RLB SVCS., INC. handles all permitting and inspection scheduling.
Energy Efficiency & Rebates
20. Are gas fireplaces more efficient than wood-burning?
Answer:
Yes! Traditional wood-burning fireplaces waste up to 90% of heat. Gas fireplaces by RLB SVCS., INC. retain 70–85%, with better room heating, no ash, and no chimney mess.
21. Can I save money with a boiler upgrade?
Answer:
Definitely. Upgrading to a high-efficiency boiler can cut your gas bills by 15–40% annually. We also optimize systems with:
- Smart thermostats
- Zoning valves
- Outdoor reset controls
22. Are rebates or tax credits available?
Answer:
Yes! We help homeowners access:
- Federal Tax Credits (up to 30%) for qualifying systems
- Utility rebates from Dominion Energy and Washington Gas
- Seasonal manufacturer promotions
Ask RLB SVCS., INC. about current offers to reduce your upfront costs.
Choosing RLB SVCS., INC
23. Why choose RLB SVCS., INC.?
Answer:
We’re your trusted Northern Virginia heating experts because:
- Locally owned and operated
- Fully licensed and insured
- Dozens of 5-star Google reviews
- Friendly, knowledgeable techs
- Transparent quotes—no hidden fees
- Quality brands and warranty support
- Our mission is simple: "Heat your home with safety, efficiency, and style."
24. What areas do you serve?
Answer:
We proudly serve:
- Fairfax, VA
- Centreville, VA
- Gainesville, VA
- Chantilly, VA
Surrounding communities throughout Northern Virginia
Book Your Appointment Today!
Ready to install or upgrade your fireplace or boiler?
Contact RLB SVCS., INC. today for:
FREE on-site consultations
Expert recommendations
Prompt scheduling
Prompt scheduling
We’re here to make your home warmer, more efficient, and more beautiful—all year long.