Important gas fireplace maintenance tips - Newsday

A gas fireplace lets you enjoy the warmth and comfort of a roaring fire at the touch of a button. Without the mess of ash and soot, these clean-burning appliances require far less maintenance than traditional wood-burning fireplaces, but a little gas fireplace maintenance is essential to keep yours in tip-top condition.

Firstly, it is recommended that you have your fireplace inspected by an approved gas supplier at least once a year. The technician can thoroughly clean gas fireplaces, check for gas leaks, ensure the fireplace is properly ventilated and identify potential safety issues.

You can also clean your gas fireplace yourself between the annual inspections. Especially if you use your gas fireplace frequently, dirt, dust and other deposits can accumulate over time, eventually leading to musty odors or milky or cloudy looking glass doors. If your fireplace interior or glass looks dirty, follow the steps below to clean a gas fireplace.

How to clean a gas fireplace

Working near gaseous components can be dangerous. Before you begin, read the owner's manual that came with your gas fireplace and be sure to follow all of the manufacturer's instructions, paying particular attention to safety precautions.

What do you need

screwdriver

Throw a cloth or towel

Crevice vacuum cleaner or handheld vacuum cleaner

soft cleaning cloth

fireplace glass cleaner

paper napkins

Step 1 - Turn off the gas and dismount.

Turn off the pilot and gas valves and wait for the fireplace to cool down completely before cleaning. According to the manufacturer's instructions, remove the glass pane to gain access to the interior of the fireplace. Place the jar on a soft surface, like an old washcloth or towel. If possible, remove the decorative stems (you may need a screwdriver) and place them on the drape or towel. Remember to take a picture of the fireplace before you take it apart so you remember where to put everything in place.

Step 2: Clean the inside of the chimney.

Vacuum any dirt or dust from inside the fireplace by carefully walking around grates, decorative stones, or other components. If the stones or rocks in your gas fireplace are small enough to vacuum, carefully remove them before vacuuming. Dust the logs with a soft cloth and place them back in the appliance.

Step 3: Clean the gas fireplace glass.

Glass in gas fireplaces sometimes takes on a cloudy white film due to chemical residue. To clean, use a glass cleaner made specifically for fireplaces and buff with paper towels or a soft cleaning cloth. Replace the glass in the fireplace.

More maintenance tips for gas fireplaces

The logs and stones in your gas fireplace can become discolored, wear down, or crack over time. If you find any signs of damage, replace these components immediately. Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector nearby that can alert you to leaks. Consult a professional if you notice signs of excess moisture, cracked paint, stains, or other damage around your chimney or fireplace, and schedule your annual chimney inspection for late summer or early fall before temperatures drop.

Try Adblock (Why?)