But why?
We know that you’re thinking you have a gas fireplace because there’s pretty much no maintenance. Why would you have to clean it? Regular cleaning of the glass will ensure that you’re always aware of how your gas fireplace is performing. It will also keep things running beautifully for many long years.
Old and new fireplaces can sometimes get a white-grey build up on the glass. There are a couple of causes for this phenomenon:
- If you are the proud owner of a new fireplace, the off-gassing phase (the first 10 hours of consecutive operation to cure any residues from manufacturing) can cause particulates that will mix with the products of combustion and deposit on the glass as condensation when the fireplace cools.
- If you have had a fireplace for years, film may build up through the natural venting processes, though it should only be necessary to clean the glass twice per year.
Film can build up from minerals in the fuel (such as sulfur and calcium) depositing on the glass during regular combustion, or even from minerals in the outside air that are being brought in through the venting that sustains your fire. Cleaning the glass will be dependent upon how frequently you use the fireplace, and should be done whenever you notice things starting to look a little hazy.
Fear Factor
Another reason you may be reluctant to clean the glass of your Direct Vent Fireplace is fear. If you’re unsure at all, call a fireplace maintenance professional – here’s what you can expect from them. We can assure you that cleaning your fireplace’s glass is one hundred percent safe as long as you properly turn off the gas and allow the fireplace to cool. This can and should be part of your yearly fireplace maintenance, and detailed instructions will be found in your particular fireplace’s manual.
How to clean the glass of your Direct Vent Gas Fireplace
- Following the instructions in your manual, turn off the fireplace including the pilot light, and open the glass front.
- Leave the glass front on its hinges if on hinges. If not, remove the glass to a soft safe surface like a drop cloth, towel, or your carpet.
- Use a cream cleanser like Imperial Gas Fireplace Glass Cleaner. Pour about 2 tablespoons directly on to the glass.
- Spread the cleaner around using a soft cloth – preferably cotton. Leave the cleaner to sit on the glass until completely dry, this takes about 15 minutes.
- Buff the cleaner off using a soft clean cloth in circular motions.
- Clean the front of the glass in the same manner, using strokes in the opposite direction than you used on the other side. This ensures that you can identify what side has streaks in the event all of the cleaner is not buffed off.
There are also alcohol-based cleaners available that function exactly like your favorite window cleaner – just spray on and wipe off. Your local dealer will be able to provide a recommendation when it comes to cleaners for your gas fireplace glass, and may even have cleaners available in store.
STOP!
Before you clean, remember :
- Do not use an ammonia based cleanser like oven cleaner
- Do not use an abrasive cleanser like comet
- Do not use paper towel
