How to Maintain Your Gas Fireplace
Since wood-burning appliances require constant cleaning and debris removal, gas fireplaces are easier to support. However, maintaining a gas fireplace is not as simple as servicing a wood-burning fireplace because of the components inside. Since we are dealing with gas components and your home's gas line, it is recommended to have your fireplace inspected once a year by a licensed gas service provider.
For general cleaning and maintenance, keeping your gas fireplace in good condition is easy! This post will cover how to maintain your gas fireplace, including what you should clean, what type of cleaner you should use, and other guidelines.
How to Maintain Your Gas Fireplace in 5 Steps
After some use, you may notice your fireplace isn't looking quite as clean and fresh anymore. Fortunately, cleaning your fireplace is pretty simple once you know what to do!
1. Read the Manual
Read the manual that came with your gas fireplace or fire feature insert for unique information about your appliance. It should detail the proper operation and what you need to do to keep the device performing safely and reliably. Most manufactures have these available for download from their website if you have lost yours.
All of the manuals and instructions for Firegear products are available here for your convenience.
2. Turn Off the Gas Valve and Power
Before working with your fire feature, you'll need to turn off the gas valve and power before you start cleaning. When dealing with gas or propane, always keep the gas turned off while cleaning, repairing, or disconnecting items. As well, for gas fireplaces with special lighting or electrical ignition, turn off or disconnect power to limit any chance of sparks, shorts, or ignition.
3. Clean the Glass or Windguard
Once your appliance has cooled down, carefully remove the glass and lay it on some towels. Clean with diluted vinegar or soapy water to remove any cloudiness or build-up. Refrain from common cleaners that may leave residue and stain with heat. There are fireplace-specific cleaners available for more challenging situations.
4. Wipe Down the Appliance and Inspect Fire Media
Even though there is a lack of ash and embers, gas fireplaces still accumulate dust. Wipe down the surfaces with diluted vinegar or soapy water. Inspect the fire media for charing and discoloration, which could signify inconsistencies with the burner. Clean gas logs and fire media once a year to keep them from deteriorating or staining.
5. Check the Vents, Burner Tray, and Cavity
Once a year, it's prudent to inspect the vents, burner tray, and cavity for debris, dust, cobwebs, and trash. Whether kids, pets, pests, or weather, these generally uninteresting places have a way of collecting dirt, dust, and other items. Cleaning these areas will maintain the purity and longevity of the fireplace.
6. Change Batteries Annually
Checking the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be a standard annual fire safety routine we all employ. It also makes sense to change the batteries on these necessary items when doing the yearly cleaning of your fireplace. If your fire feature contains a battery-operated ignition system and remote control, it would be prudent to change these batteries simultaneously so you can relax, knowing everything's good for another year of enjoyment.
How to Maintain Your Gas Fireplace - Outdoor Considerations
- Cover your Fire Feature - If you have an outdoor fire feature, the single most crucial routine you can adopt to maintain it is to cover it with a weather-proof cover when not in use. The cover reduces the chances of toys and trash getting inside and reduces the effects of sun, wind, and rain.
- Check for Settling - Even though most outdoor gas fireplaces are installed on a porch or patio, settling can still occur over time. The cycle of thawing and melting can allow water deep underground, making the area less stable over time. A quick check with a basic leveling tool should keep an eye on this problem.
Now You Know How to Maintain Your Gas Fireplace
With these tips and practices, an annual or bi-annual cleaning and inspection should be all that's needed to keep your gas fireplace in good shape. If you ever smell gas or suspect there is something wrong with the gas components; please enlist professional help right away.
If you have any questions about how to maintain your gas fireplace, please contact us! We will be happy to answer questions and walk you through the process step by step with no obligation or hassle.