Gas fireplaces are popular for many homeowners, requiring much less maintenance than wood-burning models. However, that’s not to say they don’t need some annual care and service to keep them in working order. Even though your gas fireplace doesn’t produce creosote like a wood-burning unit, it must be professionally cleaned and inspected.
Cleaning
A gas fireplace may look more straightforward to maintain than a wood-burning model, but it must be cleaned regularly. Aside from the apparent need to clean a fireplace’s exterior glass doors and metal finish, a few other steps are also required. The gas valve must be shut off, and all components must be cold to the touch before continuing. It includes both the burner unit and the lava rocks inside the fireplace. Next, remove the logs and screen. It should be done carefully to avoid losing or damaging any parts. The logs and the screens should be carefully cleaned with a vacuum to eliminate all the dust and dirt. To clean the surfaces within the fireplace, you may also use a wet cloth.
Thermostat
Most gas fireplaces require routine maintenance tasks to keep them running correctly. These include cleaning the unit, checking the vent system and the chimney. A thermostat is the heart of your gas fireplace’s operation, regulating the temperature in your home. Setting the thermostat to a desired temperature will cause your gas fireplace to turn on and off automatically. If the pilot light won’t stay lit or you get low readings from the thermocouple and thermopile, these components must be cleaned or replaced. You may always call a qualified technician for assistance if you need assistance inspecting these components. These technicians are highly trained to handle gas fireplace repair Denver and can fix any problems they find.
Venting
If you have a gas fireplace, ensure your venting system is clean and working correctly. If not, you can increase your risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. A gas fireplace can be vented through an existing chimney, or a unique liner can be installed to provide proper venting. This type of venting, called B-venting, is less efficient than direct venting but is preferred by many homeowners because it complies with local building codes. A direct-vent gas fireplace is an additional choice. This type of fireplace uses a pipe in the system to suck in fresh air from the outside and to exhaust it outdoors. It is the perfect venting solution for basements because it doesn’t require a chimney or vertical flue. To clean a direct vent gas fireplace, follow your owner’s manual instructions for removing and taking the logs outside. After removing them, brush them off with a soft-bristled brush to remove any soot that has built up.
Pilot Light
A gas fireplace needs regular service, especially when the pilot light is on. Keeping it running will keep bugs from setting up the shop inside the unit and prevent moisture build-up in the pipes, which can lead to corrosion. Thermopiles on most gas fireplaces must be replaced every few years, a task that a licensed chimney sweep should perform. Periodically adjusting the pilot light may also be necessary; the homeowner can typically complete this task with some patience and a screwdriver. If the thermocouple does not cover the pilot, the equipment has a problem. The thermocouple can be tested by turning on the main burners. If the burners don’t turn on or stay on for a short time before shutting off, the thermocouple is probably defective and must be replaced.
