The Daily Insight

Connected.Informed.Engaged.

general

How do you clean natural gas logs

Written by John Parsons — 0 Views

Step 1: Make Sure Gas is Turned Off. … Step 2: Disassemble the Fireplace. … Step 3: Inspect and Brush. … Step 4: Vacuum Away Dust and Cobwebs. … Step 5: Polish Glass and Metal. … Step 6: Wipe Down Mantle and Hearth. … Step 7: Reassemble the Gas Fireplace.

How do you clean natural gas fireplace logs?

  1. Use a handheld vacuum.
  2. Scrub the logs with a soft cloth.
  3. Use a soft-bristled scrub brush.
  4. Use a cloth dampened with warm water if your fireplace manual does not warn against cleaning the logs with water.

How do you get black off gas logs?

Use a damp rag or lint-free cloth to wipe off the soot, carbon, and dust from the logs, at least once per year. Be careful to avoid scratching the logs, or they will no longer be useable. Liquid gas log cleaners are also available at your local fireplace dealer and may make it easier to clean.

Do natural gas fireplaces need to be cleaned?

While gas fireplaces don’t produce creosote, they do still need annual cleaning. Both propane and natural gas are clean burning gas fuels, so they don’t produce the same byproducts as wood, but they can still produce buildup that needs to be cleaned away.

Why are my gas fireplace logs turning black?

Soot buildup is commonly caused by clogged burner ports and improperly positioned fire-logs. … Another primary cause of soot is clogged gas burner ports. It creates an unbalanced or incomplete burn, allowing soot to form on the doors and logs. If this happens, you’ll need to clean off the fire-logs and doors.

Can you hose off gas logs?

Vacuum the inside of your fireplace, and as much of the surface area of the logs as possible, using the hose and brush vacuum attachment.

Should you clean gas logs?

It is important to clean a gas fireplace monthly even when it is not being used heavily. This will prevent dust and dirt from harming the system and allows you to inspect for damage – potentially catching something that could, later down the road, become an issue.

How often should gas logs be replaced?

Generally speaking, you can get a good ten to fifteen years of use before you need to replace your gas fireplace.

What is the lifespan of a gas fireplace?

The normal life expectancy for a gas fireplace varies, but it’s been our experience that most fireplaces need to be replaced somewhere between 15-25 years.

How often should you clean a gas fireplace chimney?

Clean Annually Gas fireplace chimneys should be inspected and cleaned annually. There will not be any soot or creosote in the chimney since you are not burning wood, but you may find bird nests that need to be removed.

Article first time published on

Should gas logs turn black?

Soot on vented gas logs is nothing to worry about. It is a natural occurrence when the yellowish flames of a gas log impinge on a rough surface. Some people like the look, some don’t. If you don’t, we suggest that you VERY CAREFULLY take the logs outside and brush the soot off with a whisk broom.

Can you clean gas logs with water?

Use a hand broom or soft paintbrush to carefully brush away dust and dirt on each log or decorative component. Never spray cleaners or water onto gas fireplace components.

How do you clean soot off a gas fireplace?

Wipe down the inside edges with a damp cloth. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any excess soot or dirt that has accumulated over time. After each wipe, be sure to rinse out the cloth in warm water to keep it clean. Only use water to wipe down the inside of the gas fireplace.

Do gas fireplace logs wear out?

If you’re wondering do gas log wear out, the answer is yes. While you certainly won’t be replacing your gas logs as often as you would with real firewood, there comes a point in time where they’ll need to be swapped out with replacement gas logs.

How do you clean a gas log thermocouple?

  1. Turn off the fireplace gas valve and remove the front panel from the fireplace. …
  2. Find the thermocouple, which is located next to the pilot light and looks like a small straight pipe.
  3. Use a can of compressed air to gently blow away any dust and dirt from the thermocouple.

How do you clean ventless gas logs?

  1. Turn off the gas and electric leading to the fireplace. …
  2. Carefully remove the logs, stones and burner, and place them on a newspaper. …
  3. Attach a hose to the vaccum, and clean the inside of the firebox. …
  4. If doors are attached to your fireplace, clean them inside and out with a non-ammonia cleaner.

How do you maintain a gas fireplace?

  1. Clean glass as needed. Most gas fireplace doors are removable for easy cleaning. …
  2. Clean interior as needed. Using the wand attachment, gently vacuum dust and debris from the fireplace interior. …
  3. Clean logs. …
  4. Replace batteries. …
  5. Inspections.

Should gas fireplaces be serviced?

Yes, your gas fireplace needs to be cleaned regularly. Regular cleaning will help keep your fireplace performing efficiently and safely for years to come. Be sure to clean your fireplace annually for best results.

Why do gas logs smell?

Air quality issues are the most common cause of strong gas fireplace odors. … Allow some time for the room odors to clear out. If you still smell gas, there may be a small leak somewhere in your system. A leak is a more serious problem that should be addressed immediately by a qualified professional.

Can you vacuum a gas fireplace?

Get Free of Debris: Use the hose attachment on your vacuum to clean the interior of your fireplace. Clear out cobwebs and any visible, lingering dirt. If your fireplace has lava rocks, use the attachment to clean around them individually.

When should I replace gas fireplace logs?

If that’s the case with yours, depending on usage, they can begin to fade in appearance over tine, and likely need to be replaced every 2-3 years. However, most gas logs these days are ceramic, and they tend to last a big longer as they are extremely durable and resistant to extremely hot temperatures.

How much does it cost to replace gas fireplace?

Most units fall between $400 and $4,000 when including basic installation prices — though costs can run much higher. Depending on the type of fireplace you choose, the total cost of installation can reach anywhere from $2,300-$10,000 at the high end.

Can you replace gas fireplace logs with glass?

Fireplace glass is a dazzling alternative to gas logs. Not only is it a hassle-free fireplace option, it creates a mesmerizing flame presentation that can be enjoyed in both indoor and outdoor fireplaces and fire pits.

How do you know if your chimney needs cleaned?

  • Oily Spots on the Walls of Your Fireplace.
  • Poorly Burning Fires.
  • Odors Coming from the Fireplace.
  • Animals are Inside Your Chimney.
  • Smoke Doesn’t Rise Up the Chimney.
  • Fires are Difficult to Get Started.
  • Chimney Soot is Falling from the Chimney.

Do gas fire chimneys need sweeping?

Do Gas Stoves Need a Chimney Sweep? Yes, if you have a gas stove or fireplace, your chimney will still need sweeping, but less often. While gas isn’t a solid fuel that gives off smoke, it’s still an important safety measure. A gas fire flue acts as an exhaust pipe that removes carbon monoxide from your home.

Why are my gas logs smoking?

The most common causes of soot buildup in a gas fireplace are ceramic fire-logs that have been moved out of proper position and burner ports that are clogged. … The other main cause of soot is clogged ports on the gas burner, which causes an incomplete or unbalanced burn and formation of soot on the logs and doors.

Do gas fireplaces emit soot?

Gas fireplaces are typically tuned specifically to produce either yellow or blue flames, and typically produce very minimal soot. So, if you have noticed this build up, you need to address the potential causes with a chimney sweep.

Does Magic Eraser remove soot?

A Magic Eraser (or its generic equivalent) is a great way to remove soot stains from hard surfaces like cabinets, ceilings, and walls. … In addition, it gives some additional tips for soot stain removal, including to use soy candles since she says they don’t produce soot.

What is a TSP cleaner?

What is Trisodium Phosphate? An inorganic chemical compound (Na₃PO₄), TSP is a white granular or crystalline substance that can be mixed with water to create an alkaline solution. Once diluted, TSP is a highly effective cleanser, degreaser, and stain remover.

Can you replace gas logs?

Replacement gas logs can be used in the event that your current gas log set is old and worn out but the burner is still in good working condition.

How can I make my gas logs more realistic?

Use vermiculite instead. You can find rock wool, silica sand, vermiculite and crackling ash granules at a fireplace supply store or order online. You may need to turn the fireplace off and shift the rock wool around until it resembles a realistic pile of embers.