Who Does Maintenance on Gas Fireplaces? 

Gas fireplaces are a common fixture in many homes. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t think about their maintenance until something goes wrong. When that happens, it is usually not the most convenient time. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to keep your fireplace in great condition and save yourself some money. Check your fireplace regularly for any obvious problems, and if you notice a problem, schedule an appointment with a certified fireplace service technician to have it fixed. 

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Inspection 

Gas fireplaces require professional inspections to ensure safety and proper functioning. During an inspection, a certified technician will examine the exterior surfaces, check for framing issues and examine the interior gas ignition. They will also evaluate the condition of the logs. If they are deteriorated or missing, they will be replaced. The technician will also provide a full report. If you have homeowner’s insurance, you should have your fireplace inspected annually. 

A routine inspection should include checking carbon monoxide monitors and carbon monoxide detectors. While gas fireplaces don’t require a chimney sweep, it’s still a good idea to inspect the chimney and the interior walls around the chimney. One of the main threats gas fireplaces pose is condensation, which can affect the chimney’s structure. In addition, look for ceiling stains or damp patches. White blotches on the exterior masonry are also indicators that a chimney is compromised. 

Cleaning 

If you want to maintain the beauty and performance of your gas fireplace, cleaning it should be a top priority. Generally, you should clean the fireplace at least once a year, if not twice. In addition to cleaning the fireplace itself, you should clean the glass doors and the logs, which should be removed and cleaned with a soft paintbrush. Make sure to avoid rubbing too hard since it may damage the logs. Also, keep in mind that the logs are designed to look their best when arranged properly. 

You can also try to clean the coals, although you may want to clean them outdoors. Check the manufacturer’s manual to see if you can remove the coals. If you cannot, take them outside and brush them with a soft brush. It is best not to use water to clean them. Before you clean the coals, examine each log to see if there are any rust spots or cracks. If you notice any of these, it may be a sign that there is an issue with the gas fire. 

Inspection of logs 

Gas fireplace maintenance includes an annual inspection of logs to ensure that they are in good condition. There is always the risk of a fire when burning with an open combustion system, but annual inspection of logs can help ensure that the logs are burning safely. An inspection can be done by a certified chimney sweep. 

Gas logs should be cleaned annually to ensure they are free from dust and debris. Performing an annual inspection will ensure your logs stay in good condition for many years to come. If they are dirty or aren’t able to burn properly, you should replace them with new ones. 

Checking the gas pressure 

If you’re experiencing trouble lighting your fireplace, the first thing you should do is check the gas pressure. Low gas pressure can be an operator issue or a result of using a lot of gas at once. If the gas pressure is too low, it may mean the fireplace needs repair. 

The gas valve is located near the fireplace’s switch. This valve controls the size of the flame. To check the gas pressure, you’ll need a flat head screwdriver and a gas pressure manometer. Once you have these two tools, you’ll need to open the valve and check the gas pressure.