Cleaning and Repairing Your Ventless Gas Fireplace


Defined Tag: Ventless Gas Fireplace.
Just as with any fireplace, from time to time, you need to give your ventless gas fireplace a good cleaning. Cleaning your ventless gas fireplace gets rid of any buildup that may have accumulated, as well as any dirt or dust which may keep your fireplace from operating at its maximum performance level. As energy prices continue to soar, it becomes more important than ever to keep your ventless gas fireplace or space heater in immaculate condition, so that your hard earned money isn't being wasted. If you use your ventless gas fireplace regularly, you should clean it at least twice a year. If you use it only infrequently, once a year or right before using it is usually all that's necessary.

The first step to cleaning it is disassembling it. Because models vary, check your instruction manual for details on how to do this. In general, the pieces should come free fairly easily; if you have trouble getting something loose, refer to your instruction manual or seek qualified professional help. Never force the pieces, as you may damage fittings, causing leaks which can lead to serious injuriy or death. If you are not comfortable disassembling your gas fireplace, or if you do not have the instruction manual on hand, give it a surface cleaning four to five times a year, following the instructions laid out below, and contact a qualified professional once every twelve to eighteen months to give it the deep cleaning it needs.

Once you have your pieces free (or working inside the ventless gas fireplace, if you have decided to go with a surface cleaning), dry dust them using a clean, lint free cloth or a nylon brush with soft bristles. For small spaces, a chenille pipe cleaner (such as you can find at any craft store) works well. Clean glass surfaces with a NON AMMONIA BASED glass cleaner. This is essential!  Ammonia is highly flammable and may react with the gas fumes. In some situations, it may actually cause your ventless gas fireplace to explode. Avoid ammonia based cleaners.

Lastly, replace everything exactly where it belongs. Make sure that all your connections are tight. If you smell gas when you turn it on, turn it off immediately and check your fittings. If the smell persists, contact a qualified professional.