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Written on: December 23, 2024
Part of the appeal of a gas-log fireplace is that you don’t have to deal with the ashes and mess that comes with a wood-burning fireplace. And it’s true, the day-to-day maintenance of a gas hearth is effortless. Even so, it’s important to clean your glass logs every month or so, whether you’ve been using it or not, and whether it’s vented or ventless.
That’s because when it’s not being used, dust can settle on the various parts and clog nozzles and pipes. And when it is being used, it is just as important. Burning anything—even propane—produces some particulate matter which can build up on burners and other mechanisms.
The good news is that keeping your gas log set clean is not hard. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions, especially for cleaning specific parts.
Always start by turning off the gas using the valve near your fireplace. Confirm that the pilot light is out, and wait a few minutes to be sure pipes are empty.
Next, carefully disassemble the log set. Use the directions for guidance, and snap a few photos with your phone so you can put it back together correctly when you’re done.
Use a brush or small hand broom to remove dust on logs and other decorative elements such as the grate. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove cobwebs and dust from the hearth. Never spray liquid cleaners or water on these parts. If necessary, you can use a cloth dampened with water to wipe down the grate.
If your hearth has a glass screen, use a glass cleaner specifically for fireplaces; glass cleaners with soap or ammonia do not react well with heat, and will damage the glass. You can also make a solution of vinegar and water to clean the glass.
As you clean your gas logs, keep an eye out for damage. Also check that valves and vents are not clogged. Don’t forget to check the outside vent!
When you’re done, carefully reassemble the gas log set in your hearth. Last, use the valve to turn the gas back on. Be sure the pilot is burning blue. If you see more than a small bit of yellow at the tip of the flame, it means the propane isn’t burning properly, which can lead to a carbon monoxide buildup in your home. There may be something blocking the pipe and you should call in a pro to check the lines.
Some people enjoy DIY projects like cleaning their gas log sets themselves. But, we get it: taking it apart and reassembling the different elements can be intimidating for some people—especially since gas lines are involved. You can always call in a pro, and the team at Pico is always happy to help.
We recommend a professional maintenance and cleaning session at least once a year. Your tech will be happy to show you how to do simpler monthly cleanings on your own.
That said, there are situations when you should always call in an expert. If you just purchased your home and it has a gas fireplace, have a professional cleaning and assessment to make sure it’s ready to go. You should also call in a technician if the fireplace has not been used for several years.
If you have questions about the care and maintenance of your gas log fireplace, you can always call the team at Pico. We service and install everything we sell, and we stand by our work. Contact us for more information today.
