If you have a gas fireplace or gas logs in your home, you likely chose it because of the ease of use and low maintenance. Because gas fireplaces and gas logs require such little attention, many homeowners neglect their care altogether. Be careful of this trap: Gas fireplaces, gas fireplace inserts, and gas logs require care and maintenance to keep them running year after year. Ignoring regular maintenance can shorten the life of your gas heating appliance; cause it to fail, leaving you without heat, or lead to a dangerous backup of carbon monoxide in your home.
Cleaning Your Gas Fireplace or Gas Logs
Taking the time to clean your gas fireplace or gas logs can help prevent burners and fans from becoming clogged with dust and debris. Additionally, it can keep your fireplace or gas log set looking great. That’s why it’s recommended that you take the time to give your gas fireplace a thorough cleaning at least twice per year. You can dust or clean the exterior of your gas fireplace or gas heating stove as needed with a nonabrasive cleaner. The process for deep cleaning the interior of your gas fireplace is simple:
- First, make sure the gas to the unit has been turned off.
- Following the manufacturer’s instructions, remove the gas logs from the firebox. The gas logs can be gently dusted with a cloth. Use a soft-bristled paintbrush to loosen any dust or debris from the grooves within the logs.
- Wipe down the inside of the firebox. Make sure that any burners and blowers are free of debris. You can use a vacuum if needed.
- In a gas fireplace or heating stove, wipe down the interior glass of the fireplace door. Avoid using commercial cleaners, as these could be combustible and pose a hazard when you relight the fireplace.
- Replace the gas logs, as instructed by the owner’s manual.
- Beware of any changes to your gas fireplace or log set. It’s worth calling the professionals if you notice that the color of the flames has changed, soot is building up on the inside of the fireplace or the blowers are making odd noises or not working.
Annual Gas Fireplace Sweeping and Inspection
The other important aspect of maintenance is your annual chimney sweeping and inspection. Just like any other vented appliance, your gas fireplace requires at least an inspection and a cleaning if need be by a professional. This ensures that your chimney is free from debris or damage, and that the entire system is working safely and efficiently. Your chimney sweep also will perform a thorough cleaning of your gas log set or your gas fireplace interior. They will make sure that all components of the fireplace are working efficiently.
If your gas fireplace or gas log set ignites at your will, it can be tempting to skip proper maintenance. It’s important not to let this slide! Proper maintenance will keep your gas fireplace, gas heating stove or gas logs working well year after year. And now that you know how easy it is to care for a gas heating appliance, stop by Tri-County Hearth & Patio Center if you’re ready to add a gas fireplace, gas stove or gas logs to your home!