How to Clean a Gas Fireplace: 3 Maintenance and Safety Tips

A gas fireplace remains a preferred option among many homeowners because of the convenience they offer, along with the coziness and warmth that a real flame provides.

Gas fireplaces require less upkeep than traditional wood-burning fireplaces, without soot or ash. But, a bit of gas fireplace maintenance is essential to keep yours in good working order for years to come. This article will discuss three important safety tips for regular gas fireplace maintenance. 

1. Put Safety First 

While most homeowners know that regular cleaning is required for wood fireplaces, some question whether gas fireplaces have the same need for maintenance. After all, propane or natural gas units don’t leave the same kind of residue as wood, right? It’s important to know that while gas fireplaces don’t produce the same byproducts as wood-burning fireplaces, they do still leave behind buildup and residue that can become a fire hazard if ignored.

It’s important for the safety of your family and home, that you have your gas fireplace cleaned and inspected every year by a professional. 

2. Schedule Regular Inspections

A blocked vent or gas leak can be dangerous and expensive to repair. A professional inspection can identify any potential problems with your fireplace, before they become costly. 

A professional inspection service can include cleaning the fireplace to remove dust and debris, checking for cracks or other damage, and ensuring that the safety systems are functioning properly.

Chimney sweeping and inspection isn’t just for wood-burning fireplaces. While gas chimneys often don’t require as much cleaning as their wood counterparts, they are just as susceptible to other chimney problems and chemical buildup from residue. It is strongly recommended that you have them cleaned and inspected every year.

3. Don’t DIY It 

During an annual inspection, there are a few steps you can expect your technician to complete to ensure that your fireplace is clean inside and out. Many homeowners are tempted to complete these steps on their own. At AES, we recommend these actions, each year, be executed by a qualified professional—nothing is more important than your safety!

• Let a professional clean the fireplace interior.
  A professional will make sure the pilot light and gas valve are switched off before beginning. They will remove the glass, grate, logs, or decorative stones. Sweep up any dirt or dust inside the fireplace and place all your components back inside when finished.
• Let a professional clean the glass.
  Gas fireplace glass sometimes gets a foggy-looking film from chemical build-up and residue. A qualified professional will use a glass cleaner specifically designed for fireplaces. They’ll spray the cleaner on the glass and gently wipe away any residue with paper towels or a soft cloth to avoid scratches.
• Let a professional clean the logs.
  The faux logs and rocks inside your gas fireplace can show wear and tear over time. A qualified professional will inspect your gas fireplace components for any signs of cracks or damage. As a safeguard, you should have a carbon monoxide detector nearby, which can warn you of a leak. 

Who should you call?

The most important precaution you can take to keep your family and home safe, and your gas fireplace in optimum condition for years to come, is to call a professional and schedule your annual fireplace inspection. 

Call AES Hearth & Patio or schedule a service call online. Our knowledgeable and caring team of experts are here to help.