What Maintenance Is Required For a Gas Fireplace?
If you have a gas fireplace in your home, it is important to perform regular maintenance on it to ensure it runs properly. Proper maintenance will extend the lifespan of your fireplace. To keep it in top shape, you should inspect the glass, the venting system, and the chimney regularly.
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Proper maintenance prolongs the lifespan of a gas fireplace
Just like any other home appliance, gas fireplaces need regular maintenance to stay in good working condition. If they are not cleaned and inspected regularly, they will begin to leak and collect condensation, which will result in water damage. If they don’t light easily or don’t produce heat as quickly as they should, it may be time to call a professional. Luckily, proper maintenance will save you from expensive repairs and extend the life of your fireplace.
Gas fireplaces are also environmentally friendly, as they do not produce smoke or odors. While these are two of the major benefits of a gas fireplace, they still produce pollutants that are hazardous. That’s why venting is recommended, which is one of the safest ways to keep pollutants out of your home.
Inspect the glass of a gas fireplace
Inspect the glass of a gas fireplace once a year to check for cracks or other problems. If the glass is cracked or damaged, it should not be used. You can schedule an inspection every year to ensure your fireplace is burning efficiently and produces less smoke and soot. To do this, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and check the model number found on the date plate in the fireplace.
If you find cracks or other damages in the glass, you should have the fireplace professionally repaired. Professionals are trained to clean glass and make sure they fit tightly into the firebox. They will also look for damaged gaskets and valves, and make sure the fireplace is vented properly.
Inspect the chimney
Gas fireplaces must have a properly functioning chimney to ensure safe operation. If the chimney is not clean and properly maintained, carbon monoxide gas could be released into the air and cause a health risk to the home. The chimney should be checked annually for wear and tear. This includes cleaning the thermopile and thermocouple, valves, and connections. Checking the ceramic logs for damage or improper placement may also be helpful.
Cleaning the interior and exterior of the chimney will help prevent buildup of dirt and debris. If you notice any gaps, call a professional to assess the issue. Also, inspect the door trim and gasket seals. If the seals are corroded or damaged, you should replace them. Likewise, check the logs for cracks or holes. If you find any, replace them with new ones.
Install a carbon monoxide detector near the fireplace
It is important to install a carbon monoxide detector near flammable gas appliances in the home. The device detects the presence of carbon monoxide, a byproduct of fuel burning, and should be placed at least 15 feet from a gas fireplace or other combustion appliance. Although small amounts of CO are produced during all combustion processes, excessive levels can be dangerous and lead to death.
There are several types of CO detectors available. Some are battery-operated, and others are plug-in and don’t require batteries. Battery-operated detectors tend to run through batteries more quickly, but require a battery change once a year. However, if you want to have a detector that doesn’t require batteries, you can get a plug-in CO detector.