how do you clean natural gas logs

Cleaning Gas Logs

• Step 1. Be sure the gas valve is turned to the OFF position and all the fireplace parts are completely cool.
• Step 2. Check the burner and control area. Use the vacuum cleaner hose attachment to clean away dust and debris.
• Step 3. If the fireplace has logs, remove the logs from the burner. Before removing the logs, it is wise to take a...

Full Answer

What is the best way to clean gas fireplace logs?

• Turn off the gas valve. ...
• Make a deep cleaning solution. ...
• Carefully remove the ceramic logs and place them on a drop cloth or old towel. ...
• Scoop out any stones and put them in a container. ...
• If your fireplace has glass wool, put it in a container for safe keeping before you vacuum.

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How to get gas logs to light?

• Place a long lighter next to the burner and pull the fuel trigger. ...
• Turn the key in the slot to open the gas valve. You may hear the hiss of gas entering the burner. The pilot should light immediately.
• Replace the key cover.
• Use the key to control the height of the flames.

How to remove soot from gas logs?

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.

How to clean a gas log fireplace?

• Extinguish any fire. ...
• Make a deep cleaning solution. ...
• Use your hands and a fireplace shovel to remove burnt wood.
• Remove the andirons and fireplace grate. ...
• Sweep up ash with a broom and dust pan. ...
• Scrub inside fireplace with a stiff bristled brush and cleaning solution. ...
• Clean the bricks on a fireplace surround with a pumice stone dipped in dish soap. ...

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Can I wash my gas logs?

Cleaning Gas Logs Use a damp rag or lint-free cloth to wipe off the soot, carbon, and dust from the logs, at least once per year. 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.

Do fireplaces with gas logs need to be cleaned?

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.

How often do gas logs 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.

Can I clean my own 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.

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.

What maintenance is required for a gas fireplace?

The initial and foremost guideline of any gas fireplace system is to have it inspected every year. With professional chimney companies, you can usually have your annual chimney cleaning and gas inspection scheduled at the same time. Matter of fact, your whole system should be inspected annually, top to bottom.

How much does 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.

Can gas logs 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.

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.

How often should gas fireplaces be serviced?

every two yearsIf you like a roaring fire from autumn all the way through spring, you should conduct or schedule service once a year, ideally early in the summer. If you only use your gas fireplace occasionally, you can probably get by with a fireplace service check every two years.

How often does a gas fireplace chimney need to be cleaned?

annuallyInspections of a gas fireplace don't take long to conduct and won't break the bank. Your chimney should be cleaned annually, as well, to clear away any debris and nesting materials from animals.

How do you clean ventless gas logs?

2:073:20Vent Free Gas Burner Maintenance - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipCheck the primary air passage located at the end of the burner tube. Remove. Any large particles ofMoreCheck the primary air passage located at the end of the burner tube. Remove. Any large particles of dust dirt lint and pet hairs. With a vacuum cleaner nozzle a pipe cleaner is also helpful.

How often should gas fireplaces be serviced?

every two yearsIf you like a roaring fire from autumn all the way through spring, you should conduct or schedule service once a year, ideally early in the summer. If you only use your gas fireplace occasionally, you can probably get by with a fireplace service check every two years.

How much does it cost to clean 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.

How do you clean the inside of a gas fireplace?

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.

Why do my gas logs have soot?

Soot buildup is commonly caused by clogged burner ports and improperly positioned fire-logs. A fire-log that's out of position can obstruct the flame path that ensures the clean-burning of gas. This contributes to soot formation on the fireplace. Another primary cause of soot is clogged gas burner ports.

Ceramic Fiber Gas Logs

First things first. Before cleaning any gas fireplace logs, you need to turn off the gas to the appliance first. While it may be funny explaining to your friends how you got 2nd-degree burns while cleaning your fireplace, it might be better to just avoid having to tell that story altogether.

Ceramic Refractory Gas Logs

Refractory gas logs are the sturdier of the two options and are typically more expensive. They have a smoother surface, which won't hold odors like ceramic fiber, but they will hold onto soot deposits. Refractory logs are commonly used in vented fireplaces because they can be placed directly over the flames, which in turn causes more soot to build.

About the Author

Amanda Hurd is a native Memphian, lover of linguistics, and blues music. She has worked in digital marketing for nearly a decade and loves to move people to action with written words. She is the Content Editor for the eFireplaceStore and eCanopy online stores.

What to look for when cleaning a fireplace?

While cleaning, look for any signs of blockage, condensation, rust or other damage. Any visible damage needs to be checked by a certified technician before the fireplace can be used again.

Is a natural gas fireplace safe?

The warmth, convenience and style of natural gas fireplaces make them a popular choice for many homeowners. A natural gas fireplace will provide the ambiance of a traditional fireplace without sacrificing efficiency or having the mess of a wood fireplace. For an attractive, efficient and safe gas fireplace, the logs need to be regularly maintained and cleaned.

What to do if gas logs are deteriorating?

If your gas fireplace logs are showing signs of damage or deterioration, search for a replacement. Check the product description to make sure any replacement logs you buy are rated for use in your fireplace.

How to get soot off of fireplace logs?

If you’ve got stubborn soot buildup on your fireplace logs, you may need a stronger method of cleaning. This soft scrub brush is designed for car detailing, making it soft enough to scrub ceramic logs without causing damage. Don’t use a stiff-bristled brush or wire brush. This can scratch logs or cause their finish to peel or flake off. Scrub with a cleaning brush for brick to get rid of that soot.

Why is There Soot on Your Gas Logs?

Although gas fireplaces produce far less soot than a traditional wood-burning fireplace, the burning of natural gas or propane still produces soot. The soot from burnt gas will build up on ceramic logs, fireplace bricks, and the interior of your chimney.

How long do gas logs last?

Gas fireplace logs typically last for 10 years or more.

Can you remove logs from a fireplace?

The placement of fireplace logs is not haphazard. They are positioned to absorb and radiate heat from your fireplace without blocking any of the gas jets. Before you take any logs out of your fireplace, consult the manual for your fireplace model. If it warns not to remove the logs, follow this rule. You can clean the logs in place.

Do you need to turn off the pilot light on a ceramic fireplace?

Before you begin cleaning, make sure your fireplace is completely turned off, including the pilot light. This will protect you from dangerously hot logs, open flames, and toxic fumes. A lit pilot light may not seem like a big deal, but your ceramic fireplace logs absorb and radiate heat. You may suffer a serious burn from a log that is being heated by a fireplace that is not fully turned off.

Can you use a solvent on a fireplace?

Never use a chemical cleaner or solvent on your fireplace logs. Not only can these damage or discolor your logs, but they may also be flammable, release fumes when heated, or even cause excessive soot buildup. In most cases, fireplace logs should be cleaned only with dry implements. Only certain types of logs can even be cleaned with water.

What Type of Fireplace Do I Have?

There are wood-burning fireplaces, gas-burning fireplaces, ethanol-burning fireplaces, and even electric fireplaces. While all these devices have their benefits, we’re, of course, partial to natural gas fireplaces. These are known for burning cleanly while creating more heat at a lower cost. There are three types of natural gas fireplace units:

The Power of Preparation

The right tools will help you give your vented or ventless natural gas fireplace a good, thorough cleaning. To start the process, have the following nearby:

How to clean glass on gas fireplace?

Never use a regular window glass cleaner nor a harsh lye-based oven cleaner. You can find a fireplace glass cleaner at your local hardware store. Spray it on and allow it to work for several minutes before using a soft cloth to remove the debris and film.

How to clean a glass door with a rubber gasket?

For both glass and metal enclosures, wipe the edges with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Inspect the rubber gaskets on glass doors for any deterioration or cracking. If you see any damage, the gasket should be replaced.

How to keep glass from getting etched?

Polish Glass or Metal. Many gas fireplaces have glass doors that can become cloudy with particulates from the combustion process. Regular cleaning will help prevent the glass from becoming permanently etched. Never use a regular window glass cleaner nor a harsh lye-based oven cleaner.

How to clean lava rocks?

Whether you have lava rocks or glass stones, they will have plenty of dust. Use a vacuum with a hose attachment to clean every side of each rock. If the rocks are small and would be sucked away, attach a piece of cheesecloth or nylon net to the end of the hose nozzle with a rubber band.

When reassembling a gas fireplace, do they have to go back?

When it is time to reassemble the components of the gas fireplace, they must go back in the exactly same configuration as when you began. If you're not sure if you'll remember how to do it, snap several pictures with your phone of each step.

Where is the gas valve located on a fireplace?

The gas valve, often located on the wall next to the fireplace, should be turned completely off. Check that the pilot light is completely out and wait a few minutes before beginning to work. This will allow all of the gas to leave the piping safely.

Do you need to clean a gas fireplace?

There are so many style options with natural gas from sleek, modern minimalist to realistic, rustic logs. Since there are no real logs and ashes to deal with, you may forget that even gas fireplaces need to be cleaned regularly. This is particularly important if the fireplace is used continuously during chilly months.