It’s important to maintain a safe fireplace by learning how to clean gas fire logs. You should take the time to clean your gas fire logs once a year. Even when you’re not using the fireplace, the accumulation of dust and debris can pose a problem. Cleaning the logs will allow you to use your fireplace more safely and give you a chance to inspect for damage that needs to be repaired.
Turn Off the Gas
Before you can begin practicing how to clean gas fire logs, it’s important to take a few safety precautions. Begin by turning the gas valve to the off position. The valve is typically located next to the fireplace. Wait for the pilot light to extinguish itself and allow a couple of minutes for the gas to dissipate completely.
Disassemble the Fireplace
You should follow your user guide for removing the logs from the fireplace. Make sure to separate the logs from the burner. Use an old sheet or large bath towel to lay your logs on. This will save you from dropping dust, soot, and debris on your flooring.
Since you will have to assemble everything correctly, it’s a good idea to use your phone’s camera to take pictures of the assembly as you go through this process.
Vacuum the Logs
The next step in cleaning gas fire logs involves using a vacuum cleaner to remove the remaining dust and soot. Run the vacuum hose along the length of each log in slow, deliberate swipes. This will allow the suctioning action of the vacuum to pull the remaining debris off of the logs.
Put the Fireplace Back Together
Before reassembling your fireplace, use a damp cloth to wipe the fireplace down. This includes any stones, glass plates, and ceramic tiles. Once you have sufficiently cleaned the unit, you can begin putting the logs back and reconnecting them to the burner assembly. Refer to the pictures you took and the user’s manual as you put everything back together.
Before starting this cleaning process, you should also consult the user manual that came with your fireplace. The manufacturer may offer alternate or more specific care instructions. They may also offer maintenance services to help you extend the lifetime of your gas fireplace.
Specific Type of Gas Logs
Now that you have a general idea of how to clean your gas logs here are some specific items that may only apply to your type of gas logs/fireplace:
Vent Free Gas Log/Fireplace:
- Lay Floor Covering Down in front of Fireplace
- Remove Logs
- Vacuum Logs, Burner, Pilot Assembly
- Check Wiring on Gas Valve and/or Wall Switch
- Change Batteries in Remote Box and Handheld (if applicable)
- Add new Rock Wool to Burner (if applicable)
- Reinstall Logs
- Test Fire
- Cleanup Area
Direct Vent Fireplace:
- Lay Floor Covering Down in front of Fireplace
- Remove Front Surround and Glass
- Remove Logs
- Vacuum Logs,Burner, Pilot Assembly
- Clean Glass Inside and Out
- Check Wiring on Gas Valve and/or Wall Switch
- Change Batteries in Remote Box and Handheld (if applicable)
- Add new Rock Wool to Burner (if applicable)
- Reinstall Logs, Glass and Surround
- Test Fire
- Cleanup Area
Vented Gas Log/Fireplace:
- Lay Floor Covering Down in front of Fireplace
- Remove Logs
- Vacuum Logs,Burner, Pilot Assembly
- Check Wiring on Gas Valve and/or Wall Switch
- Change Batteries in Remote Box and Handheld (if applicable)
- Remove Rock Wool and Replace with new Rock Wool
- Reinstall Logs
- Fire Logs
- Let Burn for 10 min. During Cleanup
- Spray Soot Remover on Logs
