There are many reasons why homeowners may choose a gas fireplace in lieu of a traditional wood-burning one. These fireplaces are easier to use, are a bit more eco-friendly than their wood-burning counterparts, and look wonderful in absolutely any setting. But while gas fireplaces are simpler to operate, they still require regular care. If you’re thinking about getting a gas fireplace or if you currently have one installed, let’s take a look at a few tips on how to take care of a gas fireplace.
Keep a close eye out for issues and get it serviced immediately.
There are a few common issues that those with gas fireplaces encounter from time to time. Among some of these include gas leaks or the smell of gas, issues with the ignition and the pilot light, or odd sounds and smells emitting from the fireplace. If you experience any of these, reach out to a gas fireplace repair company that can assess and address these issues immediately. A great gas fireplace service will send a technician to service your fireplace and your chimney (if applicable) at a reasonable price. When you take care of these necessary repairs as soon as possible, you reduce the risk of greater damage to your fireplace, your house, and your physical safety.
Clean your fireplace regularly to keep it functioning optimally.
Gas fireplaces can collect their fair share of dust and dirt. Additionally, regular use can cause the glass to become clouded, making it harder for you to enjoy the look of the fire. Regular gas fireplace maintenance requires you to clean these various parts of your fireplace carefully. Using a high-quality vacuum known to eliminate dust will ensure that none of the fireplace’s components become clogged or damaged. Go over areas that have become dirty or dusty gently with an attachment that won’t tug on any of the moving components of your fireplace. For the glass, make sure that you use a special cleaner designed specifically for gas fireplaces. The glass used in these fireplaces is not normal glass you would find in your home, and it can be negatively impacted by ammonia-based cleaners. It’s also important to use a cotton cloth so as not to damage the glass while cleaning. With the right care, your fireplace will continue to look great and perform well for years.
Gently brush away soot from gas log products (or get professional help).
If you have a vented gas fireplace, your gas logs may become covered in soot over time, discoloring the logs and impacting the look and feel of your fireplace. You can remedy this and keep the roaring fire look that you want by using a soft brush to wipe away the debris. While it can seem like a good idea to use water or something else to get the dirt out, this can actually damage the logs. Only use a soft-bristled brush to get the job done. But what do you do if you have a vent-free gas fireplace? When you need to make any changes or conduct maintenance to vent-free gas fireplaces, always schedule service with the pros. Trying to take on these areas yourself can pose a major health and safety risk to you and to those in your household.
Wood fireplaces aren’t for every homeowner. Whether it’s the cost, environmental impact, or ease of use, there are plenty of reasons why gas stoves and gas inserts are a popular choice among modern homeowners. If you know that you’re going to have a gas fireplace in your home, use the guide above to discover how you can best care for it to ensure that it lasts as long as possible.
