The warmth, convenience and style of natural gas fireplaces make them a popular choice for many homeowners. A natural gas fireplace will provide the ambiance of a traditional fireplace without sacrificing efficiency or having the mess of a wood fireplace. For an attractive, efficient and safe gas fireplace, the logs need to be regularly maintained and cleaned.
The following tools will be needed:
- Vacuum cleaner with attachments
- Soft, clean paint brush
- Soft cloth
- Soap
- Small can of compressed air
- Wood stove glass cleaner
Before getting started, be sure all of the fireplace parts are completely cool and the gas valve is turned to the OFF position. While cleaning, look for any signs of blockage, condensation, rust or other damage. Any visible damage needs to be checked by a certified technician before the fireplace can be used again. Refer to the owner’s manual to determine which parts should be removed by homeowners, and which parts should be handled by a professional. Follow all guidelines in the manual for annual maintenance.
Step 1
Be sure the gas valve is turned to the OFF position and all the fireplace parts are completely cool.
Step 2
Check the burner and control area. Use the vacuum cleaner hose attachment to clean away dust and debris. If the fireplace has lava rocks, cover the hose with cheesecloth to prevent rocks from being sucked into the vacuum hose.
Step 3
If the fireplace has logs, remove the logs from the burner. Before removing the logs, it is wise to take a picture of the logs in the fireplace to see how they should be reassembled, or be sure the owner’s manual is available to use as a reference.
Step 4
Once the logs are removed, use a soft paintbrush to clean any dust, dirt or spider webs from them. A small can of compressed air could also be used to clean the logs and small, hard-to-reach areas. Logs are fragile, so handle them with care.
Step 5
If the fireplace has glass doors, use stove glass cleaner to clean them. Spray the glass cleaner on a soft cloth, not directly onto the glass. Clean the outside glass first, then the inside. Do not use standard glass window cleaner. Stove glass is a different material and requires a special stove glass cleaner.
Step 6
Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the outside of the fireplace. Do not expose marble, brass, or other decorative materials to the abrasive or corrosive cleaners. With a good cleaning schedule, these parts will wipe clean with water. If there is build-up of soot or dirt that does not wipe clean, mix a small amount of soap in a bowl of water to clean the dirty areas. Wipe the area with plain water afterward to rinse.
Step 7
While the fireplace is disassembled, check the logs and all small parts for any visible corrosion or damage. If any damage is found, call a professional to repair or replace parts before using the fireplace again.
Step 8
Refer to the owner’s manual, or use a picture taken of the logs to re-assemble them for use.
Step 9
Follow manufacturer’s directions in the owner’s manual to relight the fireplace after cleaning.
Step 10
Enjoy your natural gas fireplace.
Keeping logs regularly cleaned and maintained will help keep a fireplace safe and efficient. Regular maintenance will help homeowners enjoy the attractive ambiance and warmth of their natural gas logs for many years.