Do gas fireplaces need annual maintenance?
This is due to their relative ease of operation and cleaner burn than solid fuel models. However, this doesn't mean that your gas fireplace requires no maintenance. Because of their lower combustion temperatures, gas models often harbor spiders in the gas valve area and in the corners of the combustion chamber.
Is it necessary to ventilate a gas fireplace?
Vertically venting a gas fireplace through the roof is a little more cost- and labor-intensive, but necessary if a homeowner is looking to vent a gas fireplace on an interior wall—or when a gas fireplace insert is being installed and a masonry chimney, through which venting will run, already exists.
Do I need to have my gas fireplace inspected?
Gas Fireplaces need an annual inspection in order to keep up to snuff. This is a very important practice, which many people overlook. Because gas fireplaces burn clean and are very easy to take care of, some assume that this means it doesn’t need cleaning.
Does my gas fireplace need maintenance?
Though they burn cleanly, with no smoke, cinders or wood ash left behind and no sooty chimneys to clean out, gas fireplaces still need regular fireplace maintenance and service to run safely and extend their lifespan. Cleaning your gas fireplace can be a DIY task, but only for those comfortable working around natural gas. If you’re hesitant to work with a natural gas line, call a fireplace service to do the job.
How often do gas fireplaces need to be cleaned?
Even though gas fireplaces do not burn wood or make smoke, cleaning a gas fireplace monthly is essential, even when it is not being used. Regular cleaning will prevent dust and dirt from harming mechanisms and allow you to inspect the system for damage.
How do you clean gas fireplaces?
1:232:45How to Clean a Gas Fireplace - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSometimes you'll find you'll need a screwdriver to remove the logs. I blow the dust off the logsMoreSometimes you'll find you'll need a screwdriver to remove the logs. I blow the dust off the logs with canned air and vacuum out the firebox.
How much should it cost to clean a gas fireplace?
Most of the cleaning for a gas fireplace can be done on your own when the fireplace is cool and the pilot light is off. However, because of the vent, you will need an annual inspection which costs around $75-$100. If you want a thorough cleaning at the same time the cost could be closer to $150-$175.
What happens if you don't clean a gas fireplace?
Gas fireplaces need to be cleaned periodically since various types of material such as bird nests, dead animals, and soot can accumulate in them over time. If they are not cleaned, they can become a safety hazard. There's a lot of information out there that can help you take care of your gas fireplace.
How do you maintain an indoor gas fireplace?
5 Tips on How to Care for a Gas FireplaceClean glass as needed. Most gas fireplace doors are removable for easy cleaning. ... Clean interior as needed. Using the wand attachment, gently vacuum dust and debris from the fireplace interior. ... Clean logs. ... Replace batteries. ... Inspections.
Is it OK to leave pilot light on gas fireplace overnight?
It's not safe to leave it on. Why Isn't It Safe? The biggest reason is that gas fireplaces can release deadly carbon monoxide gas, which is odourless and can go unnoticed until a person dies from carbon monoxide poisoning. It is best to not leave your fireplace on for more than three hours at a time.
How long do gas fireplaces last?
How Long Can a Gas Fireplace Last? Generally speaking, you can get a good ten to fifteen years of use before you need to replace your gas fireplace.
How do I know if my gas fireplace is safe to use?
Conduct a Gas Fireplace Safety Check Open gas fireplace screens or doors to ensure absence of any foul smells. A rotten egg odor—or similar type smell—is a definite leak indicator. Listen for any hissing or whistling sounds coming from your gas fireplace. Look for any dust, dirt, or other debris at the fireplace base.
Is it expensive to run a gas fireplace?
A standard 20,000 BTU gas fireplace will use about 20 cubic feet of natural gas per hour. Given that price of natural gas is about $1.09 per 100 cubic feet, running a standard-sized gas fireplace will cost about $0.22/hour at 100% heating output. In short: Gas fireplaces are quite inexpensive to run.
Can you clean the inside of a gas fireplace?
Bust the Dust: Dust your natural gas fireplace logs from top-to-bottom using a paintbrush or soft-bristled toothbrush. Next, wipe down the glass cover with a dry cloth and an alcohol-based fireplace cleaner (one that is not ammonia-based) for a spotless shine.
Can a gas fireplace cause a chimney fire?
It is fueled by gas and is often mistaken for wood because the fire looks very much like a wood-burning fire and lets out about the same amount of heat. Vented gas logs generate some soot and carbon just like wood-burning fires and can leave deposits in the chimney the same way.
Can a dirty fireplace make you sick?
A dirty chimney is something you don't want to mess with. Here's why: Carbon monoxide poisoning: When it comes to safety threats resulting from a dirty fireplace, carbon monoxide is at the top of the list. The gas is the result of incomplete combustion due to a dirty chimney.
Can you wash gas fireplace logs?
Cleaning Gas Logs Be careful to avoid scratching the logs, or they will no longer be useable. Liquid gas log cleaners are also available at your local fireplace dealer and may make it easier to clean. But avoid using household cleaners as the chemical residue can damage the logs and cause harmful exposure to vapors.
How do you clean the pilot light on a gas fireplace?
0:111:35Gas Pilot Cleaner - A 3 Minute Repair - GasPilotCleaner.com - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe easiest way to clean a pilot assembly is the only way operating pump once or twice will easilyMoreThe easiest way to clean a pilot assembly is the only way operating pump once or twice will easily clear the ash from the orifice. Inside the pilot assembly.
How do you clean soot off gas fireplace?
The best ways to clean a buildup of soot off gas fireplace logs are:Use a handheld vacuum.Scrub the logs with a soft cloth.Use a soft-bristled scrub brush.Use a cloth dampened with warm water if your fireplace manual does not warn against cleaning the logs with water.
Can I use Windex on my gas fireplace glass?
DO NOT USE WINDEX or other glass cleaners – gas fireplace glass is special and so it needs a special cleaner. Stop by and pick up some Gas Fireplace Glass Cleaner (try saying that one five times fast). It's a cream-based cleaner that will help lift that white film without scratching or doing damage to the glass.
How Often Should You Clean a Gas Fireplace?
According to Alex Varela, general manager of Dallas Maids, it's a good idea to clean a gas fireplace about once a month, followed by a once-annual professional cleaning and inspection. If you use your fireplace frequently, such as in the winter months, you may need to clean it every week or every other week.
Things You'll Need
Always begin with a cool fireplace. Before you begin cleaning a gas fireplace, make sure you turn off the gas valve (usually located next to the fireplace). It's also important to make sure the pilot light is out before you get started.
How to Keep a Gas Fireplace Cleaner, Longer
Monthly maintenance is the best way to ensure your gas fireplace is both clean and functional for the long haul. If you use your fireplace routinely, then Varela says it may be a good idea to vacuum it every week or so.
How Often do Gas Fireplaces Need to be Cleaned?
Like wood-burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year. Gas fireplaces can have a series of mechanical issues, along with a buildup of soot in the firebox or chimney. It’s usually a good idea to get your chimney inspected and cleaned during this time as well.
How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Gas Fireplace?
Cleaning a gas fireplace yourself normally won’t cost anything since you’ll likely have some cleaning materials already on hand. However, if you choose to have your gas fireplace professionally cleaned, it will cost an average of $100 and a typical maximum of $200. This is excluding any possible replacement parts.
12 Steps to Clean a Gas Fireplace
If you have a gas fireplace and are looking to clean it yourself, there are some important guidelines to keep in mind before you begin.
Why do you need to Clean a Gas Fireplace?
While we’ve established that gas burning keeps you protected from creosote buildup, you are getting some buildup, and it’s just not produced from the wood.
What to do if you smell gas in your fireplace?
If you smell gas during operation, turn off your fireplace immediately. While you may be able to track down the leak with a spray bottle of soapy water (sprayed on the lines to look for telltale bubbles), a gas leak is nothing to trifle with. It is better to call the gas company right away!
Why do you need to inspect a chimney?
Chimney inspection and cleaning – You’ll have to check your chimney to ensure proper ventilation and identify and remove any debris that might impede or obstruct proper airflow.
How to get dust off a log burner?
With a soft brush or a small broom, we may now begin wiping out dust and debris from the logs as well as from your burner. Pay attention to holes and vents in the latter to ensure that everything gets a good brush-over.
What color should the pilot light be on a fireplace?
It should be completely or almost completely blue, with the possibility of a bit of yellow at the tip. If it is not primarily blue like this, it might be time to clean and/or a service check.
How to get dust off of a hearth?
A soft, clean cloth will get any dust accumulation off of the hearth and the mantle now, and the cloth itself tells you once the job is done. So give these a good wipe down until you don’t see any signs of residual dust and debris, and we are just about done!
Do you have to check the gasket on a gas fireplace?
Cleaning and checking the glass – Aside from cleaning the glass, you may have to check the gasket seals on gas fireplace glass doors to ensure that everything is adequately sealed or determine if the gasket needs to be repaired.
What to do after cleaning a fireplace?
After you’re done cleaning the insides of the fireplace, it’s time to wipe the glass door or the metal screen outside. The combustion can cause the glass to get too cloudy, so regularly cleaning it will prevent that.
What happens if you block a chimney?
A blocked chimney leads to poor ventilation, which in turn may lead to the production of dangerous fumes, such as carbon monoxide. The consequences of having carbon monoxide in a house are disastrous because it’s highly toxic and odorless, so you may not know it’s even there.
How long do gas logs last?
Gas logs are designed to last for long years, but if they’re not cleaned regularly, their life will be cut short. Plus, if they’re too dirty, they may not burn properly, affecting the fireplace’s efficiency.
Is it easy to clean a gas fireplace?
As beautiful as wood fireplaces are, they’re not exactly easy to clean. They leave a lot of ash behind, making a huge mess that you need to clean constantly. Gas fireplaces aren’t as aesthetic as wood ones, but they’re much easier to maintain and clean. I’d go without the comforting crackling sound if it means I don’t have to clean wood ash!
Do gas fireplaces need a gas inspection?
Other than the occasional cleaning to prevent the accumulation of buildup, gas fireplaces need an annual gas inspection to make sure everything is operating safely and along with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Can you leave a fireplace dirty?
Leaving your fireplace dirty won’t only affect its performance, but it may also lead to some safety issues. For example, the chimney may get blocked without you realizing it, especially when you’d left it in the summer months without operating it.
Can you use window cleaner on fireplace glass?
Avoid using any window glass cleaner you find in your house. Instead, grab a fireplace glass cleaner, so it’ll keep the glass shiny and safe.
Why do you choose a gas chimney?
After all, you chose a gas chimney so you that you didn’t need to worry about ash, wood, and creosote. You don’t want to have to worry about other problems either. If you have a gas chimney that is ready for a cleaning or needs a repair made, contact us today.
What is chimney sweep?
A chimney sweeping in your gas fireplace will help remove items like bird’s nests, animals, and any debris that may have gotten trapped in there as well any potential soot. Furthermore, a chimney sweeping is often also an inspection.
Do gas fireplaces produce creosote?
While gas fireplaces don’t produce creosote, they do still need annual cleaning. Both propane and natural gas are clean burning gas fuels, so they don’t produce the same byproducts as wood, but they can still produce buildup that needs to be cleaned away.
Can a chimney sweep fix a leak?
This means while your chimney sweep is in cleaning things up, they can spot potential problems early. If you have a leak or a vent that won’t open or close, by catching these potential problems early, the repair for them is often a lot cheaper than if you caught it a few years later.
Do gas chimneys need to be cleaned?
While gas chimneys often don’t need as much cleaning as their wood counterparts, it doesn’t mean they don’t need any cleaning at all. They are just as vulnerable to other chimney problems and it strongly behooves you to have them cleaned and inspected every year.
Is vent free fireplace safe?
Although I am listing this option here, there is a lot of research to say that vent-free fireplaces are not as safe as the manufacturers say they are. Indoor air quality, the quantity of water vapor released into the house, and the increased risk of combustion (fire) occurring are all real risks to consider before installing a vent-free fireplace.
Does Valley Chimney Sweep sell vent free appliances?
Valley Chimney Sweep does not sell, install or service the non-vented (vent-free) type of appliances. You should consider your home’s air quality first and foremost. The aesthetics of a vent-free fireplace just aren’t worth the risk. If you decide to invest in a vent-free fireplace, don’t forget to invest in a very good quality carbon monoxide ...
Is a gas fireplace a gas?
Not all gas fireplaces are created equal. Some are fueled by natural gas or propane gas. Some are yellow flame or blue flame. Some require venting systems and some don’t.
Is a gas fireplace good for a new home?
Gas fireplaces are becoming very popular in new homes, house remodels and even some advanced level DIY home improvement projects. There are a number of benefits to a gas fireplace including the removal of the chores: chopping, stacking, and carrying wood into the house as well as cleaning the ashes left from the previous fire.
Do you have to clean a fireplace?
However, avoiding cleaning your fireplace is not one of those benefits. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), some of the new gas fireplaces still recommend or require an annual chimney cleaning. Not all gas fireplaces are created equal. Some are fueled by natural gas or propane gas. Some are yellow flame or blue flame.
Why Get a Gas Fireplace Serviced?
Though they burn cleanly, with no smoke, cinders or wood ash left behind and no sooty chimneys to clean out, gas fireplaces still need regular fireplace maintenance and service to run safely and extend their lifespan.
How long does it take to service a gas fireplace?
Here are the steps necessary to service a gas fireplace. If you choose the DIY route, leave yourself about an hour to complete the job. Inspect the exterior. Make sure the unit is properly mounted and there are no gaps or cracks in the fireplace framework.
What Does Fireplace Servicing Cost?
Expect to spend between $100 and $200, although in some areas it may be much higher. If you do a DIY fireplace servicing, the cost is minimal, especially if no parts need to be replaced.
What to do if you don't have a carbon monoxide detector?
Dust bunnies, dead bugs, pet hair — all can accumulate in your gas fireplace, so this is the time to vacuum them out. Check carbon monoxide detectors. A routine fireplace service should also ensure the carbon monoxide monitors work. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide monitor installed near your fireplace, add one. Inspect the chimney.
How much does a gas fireplace cost?
Including materials and installation, a gas fireplace can cost from $2,000 to $4,500 and up. So be sure to protect your investment by getting your gas fireplace serviced regularly.
How to check if gas leaks?
Check the gas ignition. Test-fire the interior gas ignition under the logs and make sure it lights correctly. Turn off the gas, then clean all the valves and ports under and amid the logs by gently rubbing them with a wad of steel wool or a sheet of fine-grit sandpaper. Check for gas leaks. Smell is an obvious giveaway, but to be sure, brush some water mixed with dish soap over the lines, valves and ports and watch for bubbles — the telltale sign of a leak.
What are the signs of a gas fireplace?
With gas fireplaces, the biggest threat to the chimney is condensation. Damp patches on the walls, ceiling stains and white blotches on exterior masonry ( called efflorescence) are all signs of a compromised chimney. If you haven’t called in the pros yet, it’s time to make the call.