The Only Way You Should Be Cleaning A Gas Fireplace

Gas fireplaces are a great addition to any home since they are so easy to use, clean, and maintain. Additionally, they are energy efficient and more environmentally friendly than wood-burning ones. While they are generally considered low maintenance, it can be hard to parse through all of the information about cleaning and care. However, this step is especially important because using the wrong cleaning methods or products can cause major damage. Incorrect cleaning or not cleaning the whole fireplace can also lead to significant problems, so you should definitely be aware of the steps.

When the time comes to clean your fireplace, the correct way to do so is to turn off the gas, vacuum dust and debris around the vents and exterior, dust the interior, clean the glass door, and wash the metal components. For the occasional deeper clean, you can also scrub the inside walls. Throughout the process, you should also be inspecting the various components and looking for anything that can indicate a problem, such as a buildup of soot. If you notice anything concerning, check the signs that your gas fireplace could be dangerous and learn how much it costs to repair it so that you can keep it well-maintained and safe for use in your home. The process can be time-consuming and requires special supplies, so make sure you understand what you are doing before you begin.

The first and most important step of cleaning your fireplace is to turn off the gas. After ensuring it is off, wait a few minutes to give it the opportunity to cool down, just in case. Then, you can start cleaning from the outside in. Dust around the outside of the fireplace and vacuum up any debris. Implementing some of the easiest ways to clean stone fireplaces can be helpful here. 

Open the glass door and remove the artificial logs or other items inside for cleaning. These should be cleaned without the use of any soap or water. Instead, use a brush, soft cloth, or even compressed air to remove any buildup of dust and debris. You can use the same methods to clean the decorative fireplace grate. This is also the time when you should examine the logs for any signs of damage. If everything looks okay, move on to cleaning the glass and metal components, such as the andirons. Wash the andirons and metal with dish soap and water, and clean the glass using a fireplace glass cleaner and a soft cloth. These specific cleaners are non-abrasive, which helps prevent accidental scratches that can weaken the glass.

Finally, you can scrub the walls inside the fireplace using a cleaning solution. Once each component is completely dry, vacuum any lingering dust and debris from inside before putting everything back into place and turning the gas back on.

Given the relatively in-depth process, you might wonder how often you need to clean out your gas fireplace. While frequency can vary, most manufacturers recommend cleaning at least once a year. Check your owner's manual for information about your individual fireplace's needs. Also, be on the lookout for signs that it needs a cleaning. If you notice any strange smells, a buildup of soot, or it's struggling to keep a fire going, then it may be time to clean again. When any of these signs happen frequently or if you notice any additional issues while, you should call a professional to come examine the unit before using it. If something is going wrong in the gas fireplace, it could be dangerous for you and your home. 

Finally, if the process feels overwhelming, you can always hire a professional to do the cleaning for you. A cleaning typically costs around $150 to $175, and the technician will be able to confidently identify any issues. However, with the correct method, cleaning your gas fireplace is a task that you can successfully complete on your own. Once it is all clean, keep it well-maintained and in top condition by following some common tips for caring for your gas fireplace.