True or False: Gas-burning fireplaces need to remain operational during closed-building conditions.

Gas-burning fireplaces do not necessarily need to remain operational during closed-building conditions unless they serve as the primary heat source for the building. The purpose of maintaining operational systems is primarily to ensure adequate air exchange and to potentially mitigate the accumulation of radon gas, which can be influenced by ventilation practices in a closed structure.

In scenarios where the gas-burning fireplace is the primary heat source, it may be crucial to keep it operational to maintain consistent heating and to assist with indoor air quality, as it could help circulate air. However, if the fireplace is not the primary heat source, then leaving it operational during closed conditions may not be necessary.

This understanding helps in setting guidelines for closing buildings during radon testing or mitigation efforts, where the objective is to establish the air quality and radon levels without introducing variables from heating systems that are not essential.