Unlike traditional wood-burning fireplaces that provide inconsistent warm and clog chimneys with ash and charred wood, a gas fireplace is a smart alternative that doesn’t have these issues. They require their fair share of maintenance, and there are specific measures you need to take before the winter season to make sure they are in working order. Here are some tips to help maintain your fireplace before, during, and after use.

How to Maintain Your Gas Fireplace

1. Clean It Regularly

Just like your other home fixtures, a gas fireplace needs routine cleaning as part of its maintenance. Use a mild cleanser to clean the glass and remove soot on the surface. Wipe down with a cloth, then finish drying using paper towels or old newspapers to minimize streaking.

When you have wiped down the glass, clean the interior as well. Run the vacuum over the burner to remove dirt and debris. If your gas fireplace has lava rocks, cover the attachment’s end with a stocking or cheesecloth to serve as a filter. Scrub down the interior using a soft-bristled brush to dislodge hard to remove debris

2. Scrub the Logs

If you have vented logs, you can clean them yourself. Remove the logs and place them somewhere that they won’t get soot on flooring or furniture. Avoid using a wet rag to wash the legs and use a soft-bristled brush to remove residue without damaging the finish. 

If your fireplace has vent-free logs, you need to call a specialist who can clean the logs for you. Consider reaching out to the manufacturer or store for recommendations or to schedule an appointment with one of their stove maintenance specialists.

3. Check the Batteries

Gas fireplaces can emit dangerous fumes like smoke and carbon monoxide, so most come with detectors and other safety features. These are early warning systems that detect the buildup of fumes that could lead to injury or carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure that you check their battery life regularly and change the batteries twice a year. While changing the batteries on the detectors, also check and change the batteries on your fireplace remote or control board. 

4. Switch Off the Pilot Light

Since you won’t be using your gas fireplace in the summer, ensure that its pilot light is turned off. By turning off the pilot light when the fireplace isn’t in use, you save energy and lessen the chance of a dangerous gas leak.

5. Get Inspections and Tune-ups

Unless you’re familiar with the inner workings of your gas fireplace, it’s better to hire a professional to perform safety inspections and tune-ups. At the very least, have a technician examine the system once a year for any issues. Routine maintenance prevents repairs from becoming too expensive or extensive.

When you need assistance maintaining your gas fireplace, look no further than Warming Trends in Onalaska, WI. For over 25 years, they have offered exceptional after-sales servicing and maintenance work on installed fireplaces, inserts, and stoves across Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. Call (608) 783-6400 to set an appointment or visit their website for service details.