How to Safely Operate Your Gas Fireplace

Do you hate the idea of burning logs and cleaning ash from your fireplace? Then you might be thrilled to know that a gas fireplace is an option. Gas fireplaces are great sources of heat and can still give your home that soothing ambiance. Still, there are some safety precautions and measures the chimney sweeps at Chimney Champions want every homeowner to know before operating a gas fireplace.

Review the Fireplace Manual

Before you light a fire in your gas fireplace, be sure to review the owner’s manual. This will ensure that you are familiar with the specific instructions for your particular model. Many things can go wrong if you don’t follow the manufacturer’s directions, including dangerous carbon monoxide build-up. The manual will also contain important troubleshooting tips as well as important information about maintenance and care.

Test Your Home’s CO Detector

It’s important to test your home’s carbon monoxide detector before using your gas fireplace. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can quickly build up to dangerous levels in an enclosed space. Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms while using your gas fireplace, get outside immediately and call 911.

Open the Damper

One of the most important things you can do to ensure the safe operation of your gas fireplace is to open the flue damper. This improves airflow and pulls harmful gas out of your home. Keeping the damper closed during operation can force by-products back down and into your home. Taking this important safety precaution will ensure that your home doesn’t fill with carbon monoxide.

Light the Fire

Now that you know the safety and usage basics of your gas fireplace, it’s time to light your fire. To safely light a fire, follow these four steps:

1. Turn on the gas.
2. Light the pilot light.
3. Once the pilot is lit, turn up the heat to your desired level.
4. Close the glass fireplace doors.

Now that your fire is lit, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the warmth from a safe distance. Remember, the fireplace glass doors will get hot, so make sure you don’t touch them while a fire is going. Once you turn off your gas fireplace, let the glass cool before opening the doors. 

Call for an Inspection

No matter what you burn in your fireplace, it’s important to have regular chimney inspections scheduled. Chimney Champions has years of experience inspecting, sweeping, and even repairing chimneys for homeowners throughout Jacksonville, FL. So, before you light another fire, let’s make sure your chimney is safe to use. Schedule with us online or call (904) 268-7200 today.