Cleaning Gas Fireplace

A fireplace can truly add a classic look and warmth to your house. However, maintaining the elegant look of a fireplace requires a bit of care and maintenance, of which cleaning is an important part. Gas fireplaces however, do not require much maintenance.

Being a cost- and energy-efficient and safe fireplace, it is usually preferred over its traditional counterpart, the wood-burning fireplace. Usually, this fireplace should be cleaned once in a year, ideally before or after winter.

This task is not so difficult as assumed by many. However, you should maintain caution while cleaning this fireplace. First of all, be sure to turn off the gas valve and electrical power, and wait for your fireplace to cool down before cleaning it. Now, remove the glass, logs, and the burner, according to the instructions given in the manual.

For cleaning the glass, spray a small amount of cleaner on it, and then wipe it with a soft cloth or towel. Do not use any kind of abrasive cleaners or cleaners containing harsh chemicals to clean the glass. To clean the outer body of the fireplace, you can use a damp cloth.

The inside of the fireplace can be cleaned with the help of a vacuum cleaner. You can use a vacuum cleaner with the brush attachment to clean the inside. Never forget to take out the logs before vacuuming. The fireplace logs are very fragile, and so, be sure to take them out gently. The logs can also be cleaned along with the other parts of the fireplace. For cleaning logs, you can use a soft paint brush, and remove the accumulated debris on the logs.

But for cleaning the soot accumulated on the logs, you may need some cleaners. But again, check with the manufacturer, if such cleaning products can be used safely. Occasionally, you can also observe soot on the glass door, which can be cleaned with a good quality glass cleaner. After the logs and the glass door, it is the turn of the gas valve. The gas valve should be cleaned at least once in a year. You can use a soft cloth or a towel to wipe and clean the gas valve.

The vents of the fireplace can also become dirty, mainly due to the accumulation of dry leaves when the fireplace was not in use. Sometimes, this can also block the vents. So, while cleaning your gas fireplace, do not forget to check the vents and remove the accumulated debris.

You may not be able to clean them on your own, if they are badly clogged. In such a situation, you may need some professional help. After cleaning, reassemble the various parts, and put them back in their exact location. Again, refer to the manufacturer's instructions, which can help you reassemble the various parts of the fireplace correctly.

If maintained properly, a gas fireplace can add an elegant look to a room, without being messy like a wood-burning stove. A clean and well-maintained fireplace can add warmth and appeal to your house. In essence, it can be an important investment for home improvement. So, take proper care of your gas fireplace, and clean it at regular intervals.