Safety Tips for Heating with a Gas Fireplace

A gas fireplace provides effortless convenience together with the pleasure of a warm fire. People with fireplaces often greatly anticipate their first cozy session by the fire when winter arrives. It’s important for homeowners with gas fireplaces to realize, however, that a gas fireplace may be convenient but it still requires maintenance. There are various potential hazards associated with gas fireplaces, just as there are with wood-burning fireplaces. A gas fireplace inspection and chimney inspection should be performed annually, according to experts at the National Fire Protection Association and Chimney Safety Institute of America.

Safety Tips for Gas Fireplaces

Solid fuel appliances are favorite home amenities, though they can expose a home to added risk if not properly maintained. The inefficiency of traditional masonry fireplaces has motivated many homeowners to make the switch to gas fireplaces, which provide more heat. It can be a serious mistake to neglect ongoing professional maintenance. House fires caused by heating systems are most frequently the direct result of lack of maintenance or improper installation. Please note that it’s always important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but the following tips can help to ensure that you safely enjoy your gas-burning fireplace:

·      If you are switching your wood-burning fireplace to a gas-powered fireplace, hire a licensed, experienced professional to install the line and hook-up, whether to a gas line or propane tank. This may be a requirement on your home insurance, for any associated damage that could occur to be covered.

·      One of the benefits of professional installers is that they are familiar with local building codes. Be sure that the gas fireplace you install is in compliance with local restrictions, which could be as simple as confirming that the professional you hire is fully qualified and experienced.

·      Have an oxygen depletion sensor installed in your gas fireplace, whether it is vented or unvented. This ensures that the gas will shut off if a buildup of carbon monoxide occurs or if the fireplace isn’t putting off any warmth.

·      Install carbon monoxide detectors, in addition to smoke detectors, in all of the recommended places. This includes, for example, at least one of each on every floor and one smoke detector over each bedroom door.

·      Leave a space of at last 3 feet between your gas fireplace and flammable objects, such as curtains and furniture.

·      Each year, before you light your gas fireplace for the first time, have professional chimney sweep clean and inspect it.

·      If the flames change in your gas fireplace or if you smell gas or an unusual odor, exit your home and call 9-1-1 immediately.

What Does a Gas Log Inspection Involve?

Your gas log set should be cleaned and inspected annually by a professional, such as an expert chimney technician. The following are commonly performed during a routine maintenance inspection:

·      Clean the logs and accessories such as glowing faux embers and adjust them so that they look good.

·      Clean the glass.

·      Check the vents to be sure they aren’t obstructed.

·      Check the combustion systems for buildup of dust or insects. Main burner and pilot airways need to be cleaned regularly.

·      If there is a blower, it needs to be cleaned manually.

·      Put a fresh set of batteries in your gas fireplace remote transmitter.

Think Ahead

At the beginning of winter, it’s normal for the best chimney technicians who provide professional care of gas fireplaces to be swamped with work. Be prepared for the cold weather by planning ahead and having your gas fireplace and chimney checked out ahead of time. The best part about it will be that you don’t need to delay your enjoyment of your gas fireplace when the first winter chill blows in. Contact Hudson Valley Chimney today at (845) 471-1071 for reliable fireplace and chimney services and repairs.