Gas Fireplace Maintenance

 Gas fireplaces and stoves have advantages that are hard to ignore. They provide warmth and ambiance in a home while saving you more money and time in cleaning compared to other designs. At the same time, you can install them more easily and affordably than traditional fireplaces, making it easier to heat nearly any room in your home.

Still, like all gas fireplaces and stoves, they must be properly maintained to ensure they work correctly and efficiently and look their best. The good news is the cleaning and maintenance are simple. You can do it yourself without needing to hire out any work.

Here are some tips on how to maintain your gas fireplace yourself.

Regular Service

You should do a thorough inspection of your gas fireplace and stove once a year. This ensures that all the parts are in good working order and that there are no potential safety hazards.

Make it a habit to set a reminder on your electronic calendar or mark your wall calendar to ensure you won't forget. Proper care goes a long way in getting the most from your unit for your dollar.

Generally speaking, servicing a gas fireplace and stove is easier than a wood one. Typically, the maker of your gas fireplace will have an easy checklist of instructions you can follow at home, but even if it doesn't, here are some common steps to keep in mind.

Check the Exterior of Your Home

Once a year, do a full inspection of your chimney and stove parts outside of your home. Make sure the chimney cap is on and that the bird screen is secure and undamaged. Make sure that surrounding tree branches aren't growing too close to it, and look to see that any roof flashing at the chimney is secure so that water doesn't leak into the home.

Clean the Glass

Like any fireplace, the glass will get dirty over time. Maintaining a clean view of the fire lets you and your family indulge in the beauty and ambiance of the flames, but it also helps you spot issues with the flame to verify that your fireplace is working properly.

Regular cleaning can be done with a soft cloth and a mild glass cleaner. You can find glass cleaners online or at major hardware stores - including cleaners made specifically for gas fireplaces. Whichever product you choose, be sure to avoid any abrasive cleaners or scrubbers and cleaners with ammonia, as they can damage the glass.

Make cleaning easier by cleaning the glass regularly and at least once a year. Be sure to shut off your fireplace and gas before starting, and wait until the glass is completely cool.

You can typically access the glass easily by either swinging out the door or lifting it up and out from the top. Clean both the inside and outside for best results.

Inspect the Seals around the Glass

Closely inspect the seals to ensure they are tight and not leaking. Also, check for any cracks or damage to the glass itself. If you spot any issues, you should repair them to maintain optimal control of the flame, heat, and airflow.

There are plenty of YouTube videos out there that will guide you in doing any glass door repairs yourself, The replacement process will vary depending on the type of door and seals you have, but with any steps, take special care not to break the glass. Also, be sure to clean the glass before any gasket replacement so that the gaskets adhere properly.

Clean the Burner

Dirt and debris can build up on your burner and lead to a poorly working fireplace. To clean it, remove the burner from the fireplace and use a soft brush to remove any debris. While there, vacuum around the burner to remove any dust or dirt.

Check the Ventilation

Your gas fireplace has a venting system that helps to expel fumes and smoke. Inspecting this system regularly is important to ensure it's clean and unobstructed. If you see any blockages, be sure to clean them out. Good ventilation is essential for a gas fireplace to work correctly and safely.

Check the Damper, Igniter, and Burn Holes

Periodically check the flue damper to ensure it is working properly, and check the flue for any obstructions. Also, check that the igniter is working and all the burn holes show flames; if they don't, clear them so that the gas flows through each hole easily.  

Additionally, only use the fuel type specified in your owner's manual. If you use the wrong fuel, it can clog the burner nozzle and prevent the fireplace from igniting.

Inspect Logs and Embers for Damage

Inspect your fireplace's fake logs for chips or cracks. Damaged logs can be a safety hazard, so replace them as soon as possible.

Check for Gas Leaks

Spray a soapy water solution on all connections and watch for bubbles. If you see any or if you smell gas, immediately open a window or door to ventilate the room. Then leave the house and call the gas company from an outside phone line. Do not turn on any lights, lighters, or appliances or do anything that could create a spark. This could ignite the gas and cause an explosion.

If any repairs are needed, don't try to repair your gas fireplace yourself. Repairs should only be done by a certified professional.

Open the Flu While in Use

The flue is the metal or clay pipe that goes up the chimney and helps to ventilate the fireplace. Make sure that the flue is open while the fireplace is in use. This will help to prevent any dangerous gases from building up in your home.

Simple Steps Toward a Long-Living Fireplace

If you follow these easy tips, you'll keep your gas fireplace in tip-top working order. Gas fireplaces can be a great addition to any home, providing warmth, beauty, low energy bills, and increasing property values. With proper maintenance, you can enjoy these benefits for many years to come - and at minimal expense.