Fireplace Concepts New Store in Lexington, KY

There are a lot of benefits that you can take advantage of when you choose to have a gas fireplace installed in your home. Gas fireplaces provide continuous heat without the need to burn wood or other types of combustible fuel. They are also easy to operate and maintain and can help you to save a lot on energy costs. These fireplaces do not require daily upkeep to maintain them and their upkeep is less intensive than what is required with a traditional, wood-burning fireplace.

The compelling benefits offered by gas fireplaces have made them one of the most popular options for today’s homeowners. Though the process of maintaining your gas fireplace is not overly complicated, this maintenance must be carried out correctly. The following information is designed to explain to you how to maintain your gas fireplace with this fireplace service checklist.

Can You Clean Your Fireplace Yourself?

Can you clean your fireplace yourself? This is a common question that gas fireplace owners want an answer to. The answer to this question is yes. You can definitely clean your own gas fireplace. The main thing to remember is that it is important to carefully read the owner’s manual and then follow all of the steps accurately. If you are going to clean your own gas fireplace then you need to shut off the gas before beginning the process. This will ensure that you do not accidentally end up igniting anything and injuring yourself.

After you ensure that the gas is shut off, you can use a handheld vacuum to clean the dirt out from the fireplace. It is important to carefully guide the vacuum around decorative lava rocks and logs. You can use the manufacturer recommended cleaning product to clean the gas fireplace’s front screen as well as the fireplace surround. It is important to ensure that all built-up grime and residue are removed.

It is also important to occasionally check the lava rocks in your gas fireplace to ensure that they are not showing any signs of breaking down. When this occurs, it is important to replace them immediately. The same is true for decorative logs that are used in some gas fireplaces. Another thing that is important to remember is that you should get your gas fireplace inspected on an annual basis to ensure that everything is in order.

What are Common Issues With a Fireplace or Firebox Experience?

When you own a gas fireplace, it is important to understand some of the common issues with a fireplace or firebox experience. Some of the key issues include:

• A Lack of Property Maintenance and Inspection – Proper maintenance is one of the most important factors related to gas fireplace ownership. The more diligent that you are in maintaining your gas fireplace, the more efficient it will operate. This will also extend its life and help to ensure safe operation. It is also important to have your gas fireplace inspected at least once per year to ensure that everything is working correctly and safely.
• A Gas Fireplace That Was Not Installed Correctly – When it comes to the installation of a gas fireplace, you should always ensure that the work is being carried out by contractors who are fully qualified. You should also never try to install a gas fireplace yourself. Incorrect installation can lead to inefficiency as well as safety concerns. 
• Repairs Carried Out by Contractors Who Are Not Qualified – A third common issue with a gas fireplace or firebox is when repair work is done by contractors who are not qualified to work on gas fireplaces. You should always hire fully qualified professional contractors such as our team here at Fireplace Concepts Inc.

Fireplace Service Checklist:

You can easily remember how to maintain your gas fireplace with this fireplace service checklist. This step-by-step checklist makes the process of cleaning your gas fireplace a much easier one.

1. Access Glass Assembly and Firebox – It is important to ensure that both the fireplace and the glass are cool and then you must turn the gas off. After this, you need to remove the fireplace’s decorative front and then carefully remove the glass assembly according to the owner’s manual for the gas fireplace.
2. Clean the Glass – The next step on this fireplace service checklist is to clean the glass with a soft cloth and a cleaner that is approved by the manufacturer of the fireplace. Rutland White-Off and Stove Bright are two of the most highly recommended products. You should also inspect the glass for scratches and you should inspect the gasketing that is located on the glass assembly.
3. Clean the Firebox – After completing these first two steps, it is time to clean the firebox. This includes the removal of all dust and dirt that is inside the firebox and on the lava rocks or decorative logs.
4. Inspect the Inside of the Firebox for Issues – Your inspection of the firebox’s inside should occur while the fireplace is disassembled. This includes looking for indications of rust, soot, and flaking. You also need to check the pilot assembly for signs that there is impedance of the flame.
5. Clean the Rest of the Firebox – Step five on the checklist is to clean the rest of the firebox. This can be done by using a vacuum as well as a soft cloth to clean the valve cavity and the base. It is important to be careful to not dislodge any of the gas fireplace’s wiring when you are removing dust.
6. Put the Firebox Back Together – After you have completed the previous tasks on the checklist, you want to put the firebox back together. This includes turning the gas valve back on as well as putting the glass back and reinstalling the front.
7. Check the Outside Vent for Issues – You will also want to check the outside vent to make sure it is free of debris such as grass clippings and nests.
8. Check Burner Ignition – Step eight is to check your burner ignition to make sure that it lights smoothly and without the presence of a delay. If there is a delay or it does not light smoothly, it is time to bring in a service technician.
9. Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detector – Step nine is to do a check on your carbon monoxide detector which should be positioned near the ceiling or around four to five feet over the floor. This should never be placed directly over your gas fireplace.
10. Have a Professional Inspection Every Year – As has been previously noted, it is important to have an annual inspection of your gas fireplace performed by our team here at Fireplace Concepts Inc to ensure that everything is working safely and efficiently. 

To find out more about the benefits of gas fireplaces as well as further information about gas fireplace maintenance, contact our team here at Fireplace Concepts Inc. We are the leading Lexington, KY fireplace experts and have extensive knowledge and experience with gas fireplaces. You can contact our team at your earliest convenience to receive answers to all of your questions regarding gas fireplace purchases, installations, and maintenance.