Image : http://www.flickr.com
It is important that you keep your ventless gas fireplace squeaky clean and well maintained if you want to ensure efficient operation. There are several maintenance activities you need to undertake at regular intervals. For instance, you should get a certified chimney sweep attend to the chimney periodically. However, it helps to learn how to inspect the chimney yourself so it becomes easy for you to determine when you need professional help. You should check your chimney at intervals of 365 days or approximately 80 fires.
There are a good number of precautionary steps to be borne in mind while cleaning the fireplace. Ensure that all fittings in the ventless gas fireplace are tightly secured. Also, extinguish the fire completely before you begin cleaning. Wait for the chimney to cool down all along its length.
Glass doors are particularly given to staining from all the heat and soot they endure. You can remove the stains with a good glass cleaner product available at most fireplace stores. You can also use a Worcestershire sauce and toothbrush to lend some shine to the brass fireplace fittings and utensils. The place where the logs are burnt is called the firebox. Cleaning the firebox on a weekly basis is recommended, particularly in winter when you use it most frequently. Leaving a layer of ash at least one inch thick could be helpful while cleaning, since it helps insulate and retain heat, resulting in better heating effectiveness.
You can clean the exterior slate hearth to a shine by following up the washing and drying with a lemon oil coating. Exterior brick hearths can be treated with brick cleaners commonly available at local fireplace shops. Finally, install a chimney cap to protect it from damage caused by water or bird nesting, and to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the house.
