How to Care for Your Gas Fireplace
Gas fireplaces are a perfect addition for those seeking the comforting glow of a fireplace and also allows the convenience of immediate flames at the switch of a button. Gas fireplaces require minimal upkeep, yet it is still essential to inspect and clean your gas fireplace regularly. This can ensure safe and proper functionality.
Hiring a gas service professional or licensed contractor to perform a thorough inspection and cleaning at least once a year will help prevent any damage. Your fireplace, like all other things in your home, can collect dust and debris. Especially during the warmer Summer months, our fireplaces are not frequently utilized, thus allowing dust, debris and residue to accumulate overtime. If left unchecked, these foreign objects can obstruct vital components within the fireplace. Not only can this be harmful to your fireplace, but it also creates a fire hazard. It is always best to for a professional to disassemble and meticulously clean all components, check for any gas leaks, ensure proper ventilation, and identify any potential safety concerns.
We have compiled some simple and helpful tips to implement in between routine cleanings and inspections to strengthen the longevity and perfect the condition of your gas fireplace.
TURN OFF THE GAS
Switch your gas valve completely off and watch for the pilot light to fully go out. Once you have completed these steps and your fireplace is completely cooled off, wait 10 minutes to allow any remaining gas to safely exit the gas line before handling any contents.
DISASSEMBLE & CLEAN
Following the manufacturer instructions for your specific fireplace glass panes or doors, remove all panels to access the interior. Set your glass on a soft surface that is safe for any possible mess, as soot remnants can transfer.
*Pro Tip: If you aren’t sure you will remember how to replace the glass & parts, take a photo prior to disassembling. That way you have a guide to reference upon reassembly.
Examine your glass panels or doors for any loose panes or cracked glass that can draw air in from your home. Also inspect your gasket seals at this time, and if you notice the gasket seals are not air tight, you must re-seal them with gasket cement or silicone caulk. In the case of severe damage, you will need to replace these gaskets before further using your fireplace again.
Once removed, gently wipe down both sides of the glass with a soft cloth and fireplace glass cleaner. Do not use traditional glass cleaners, they will leave behind chemical residue that can create noxious smells or be detrimental to your fireplace when exposed to heat. For more stubborn areas use a small amount of fireplace cleanser or ceramic cook-top cleaner, then rinse it away with a clean, damp cloth.
Finally, dry off your glass with a clean cloth, reinstall the glass, and wait 30 minutes to give any leftover cleaning products time to evaporate and evade exposure to the flames.
CLEAN EXTERIOR
Thoroughly examine outside your gas fireplace for no gaps or cracks in the frame work. Also inspect your chimney’s interior, exterior and the surrounding area. Gas fireplaces produce condensation that can damage your chimney overtime. Be aware of any damp patches on the walls, ceiling stains, and white blotches on the exterior masonry. These are all signs of compromised chimney structure that can only be remedied by a professional.
CLEAN INTERIOR
Now you can vacuum all the dust and debris inside your gas fireplace and clean around your grates, decorative media, and all other parts in your firebox. Don’t be afraid to move some things around to get into detailed areas! Stay wary of any smaller items that could be easily sucked up by the vacuum. Once finished, used a microfiber cloth to polish the louvers outside the fireplace. For fireplaces without louvers, you still need to inspect the air cavities and clear all dust and debris in those areas.
CLEAN THE GAS LOGS
Be sure to take out any gas log set in your fire place so you can carefully remove any soot build up, residue or further debris.
SCHEDULE YOUR UPCOMING INSPECTION
Don’t forget to hire a licensed professional and schedule your annual cleaning and inspection! While regular self cleanings and inspections certainly help maintain your fire place’s working condition, it is important to have a well educated servicer to ensure everything is functioning safely and at its very best!
Need a licensed general contractor to service your gas fireplace? Reach out to any of the certified professional’s listed below to schedule your annual cleaning and inspection now!
