Gas Log Fireplace Insert Maintenance

What is a Gas Log Fireplace Insert?

A gas log fireplace insert is one that is inserted into an existing fireplace. This type of fireplace uses gas that, when ignited, provides heat in the fireplace.

This eliminates the need for wood or wood pellets as fuel for the fireplace. It also provides a cleaner burning fireplace that is easier to maintain and have in your home.

The gas log fireplace insert should be maintained and kept up in accordance with the manufacturer's directions. Typically, a set of care instructions are provided with the fireplace insert at the time of purchase and installation.

These instructions are provided to show you, as the owner of the fireplace, the way in which you can get the optimal use of the gas log fireplace insert.

Regular Maintenance Tasks

There are many things that should be done as part of your regular maintenance schedule for your gas log fireplace insert. Among those things that should be done on a regular basis in maintaining your fireplace insert includes:

Clean the gas pilots and burners

Check to make sure the gas pilot safety system is working properly

Make sure the ignition and combustion are working as designed

Check regularly the chimney draw and combustion vents for the gas log fireplace insert

Inspect the door gaskets to ensure they are working properly

Paint the fireplace firebox if needed

Clean the glass to the fireplace doors

Clean the exterior part of the fireplace

If there is a fan, check to make sure it is operating properly

Each of these maintenance steps will help keep your gas log fireplace insert operating as designed for a long time.

Annual Inspection and Safety Check

You should have the fireplace and insert checked out by a National Fireplace Institute safety inspector at least once during the year.

Usually, this inspection should take place around September, just before the start of the cold season.

This inspection and safety check will ensure your gas log fireplace insert is operating efficiently and there are no problems or issues present or in need of addressing.

Performing Regular Maintenance

Most of the maintenance routine for your gas log fireplace insert can be performed by you on a regular or periodic basis.

It is important to set up a schedule of regular maintenance routines to be performed as a checklist and maintain a list of those activities performed and the date upon which the task was completed.

Maintaining a schedule and documenting the process as you go along will give the safety inspector something to go on when determining how well the fireplace is being used and reduce the amount of time needed to complete the inspection.

The cost for failing to not properly maintain your gas log fireplace insert can be as high as replacing it in its entirety.

Before it gets to the point where you will need to spend thousands of dollars and to fix or replace your gas log fireplace insert, performing a few simple tasks regularly will save you money.