To start, you'll need your key, be it a hex key or something more old-time to match the rest of the aesthetic. Routinely cleaning your gas fireplace is an important bit of maintenance that can keep need for more significant repairs at a minimum. These ventless fireplaces, while much easier to install and capable of harnessing all of the heat produced, also aren't the safest—there's a good chance they might be outright illegal in your area. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless and colorless gas, and it … Or, if you want the Spark Notes version, you can just read through this summary to cover your bases. Whether you're the new owner of such a gas fireplace, or if you're just planning to install one inside your home before the upcoming winter unleashes polar vortexes and heavy snowfall, it's important you do your research on how to use, maintain and clean a gas fireplace. It incorporates air-movement channels that maximize the warmth supplied to the house. Turn off the gas and ensure that the fireplace's interior is cool to the touch. Once everything is lit up, there may be a dial or knob you can use to adjust the size and strength of the flames. This starts the flow of natural gas, which should ignite on the pilot light, bringing your fireplace roaring to life. It could mean the pilot light is out or that there is a leak somewhere in the system. 1. A gas fireplace uses a tube placed in the wall instead of a chimney. Also, if you're venting out a chimney, chances are there's not enough heat getting vented to prevent the water from condensing, which can lead to water dripping back down and into the fireplace. How to Use Silica Sand in a Natural Gas Fireplace - YouTube The biggest difference here is natural vents aren't a sealed system, which has a few implications but basically boils down to being a bit less efficient than a direct vent. While the fireplace is cool, open the damper (seal at the top of the fireplace) and inspect the flue (opening connecting the fireplace to the chimney). If you see this happening, it means you'll probably have to keep it under a tarp more frequently than you currently are, or that there's some problem with your fireplace's sealant. My wife wanted me to remove the vermiculite since she didn't like how it looked, and wanted to use the fireplace without it. Once that’s complete, you can install your gas logs yourself by following the included step-by-step instructions. These modules are typically meant to be installed into an existing, wood-burning fireplace. Yes. Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. If you want to convert your gas fireplace to a wall switch, this is what you’d use. Now all that's left is to sit back, relax, and enjoy the unique coziness that only a fireplace can bring. If the knob is not in the off position, turn it so that it is. Then, remove the gas logs and use a soft paintbrush to get rid of any dirt or debris. The cycle of thawing and melting can get water deep underground and potentially making the area less stable over time. Make sure you wear gloves while handling the logs, as they can cause skin irritation. Put a fireplace key into the device’s gas valve knob. You'll also want to remove any decorative flourishes that may be on or around the fireplace. READ : Ridgid Sink Tool This can be tricky, as it's heavy, awkward to move around, and delicate. Replace the grates, and gently slot the glass back into place. If you have a 100,000 BTU fireplace, you’ll end up going through about a gallon of propane for every hour that you run your fireplace. As with electric fireplaces, all you need to calculate the monthly cost of your gas fireplace is your hourly cost and the number of hours you use it per month. Millivolts and 24 volt circuits are rated as a safe voltage to work with but turn off all sources of power to the fireplace before working with the wires. Turn the gas fireplace key counterclockwise approximately 1/2 turn to release the flow of gas stoves. To shut off the pilot light, turn all control knobs to the "off" position and close the emergency gas valve. If you decided to go for an outdoor gas fireplace, there are a few other considerations you'll have to make when it comes to routine maintenance. To ignite the pilot light, press your finger into the center of the control knob and hold it in place. The other vent safely removes any exhaust gases created by burning the natural gas or LP to the outdoors. You may need a friend to help you out with this step. Unfortunately, you're going to run up against several potential problems with this style of fireplace. It should light immediately, at which point you can use the key to adjust the height of the flames. Most systems are installed so they vent to the outside. Since they utilize the existing masonry, they're typically a cheaper option—on their face at least. Once everything looks clean as a whistle, you can put everything back together, making sure to reposition the mineral wool and logs in whatever configuration they started. ©2020 Reviewed, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network LLC. With the lighter activated, move the gas valve knob about half a turn counter-clockwise. Your gas fireplace might come with a control panel, a key valve, or a wall switch, all of which have different steps to actually light the fire (we'll go over these in a bit). This sealed system is efficient, maintains your indoor air quality, and safely expels some of the more problematic byproducts. Next you'll want to locate the slot, typically to the immediate left or right of the fireplace, but sometimes it can be on the floor. Well, the basics are easy to understand, but this is where the "many different kinds" part comes into play. As we mentioned, gas mostly burns into carbon dioxide and water vapor—but that water vapor can pose several problems. If you need to manually start the fire, like most systems that use fireplace keys, you'll need long matches or a lighter with enough of a barrel to keep your hand at a safe distance. Should the chimney vent be open when the logs are turned on? If you do not have a key, you can purchase a replacement at most home improvement stores. First, you'll want to locate the pilot knob. If neither are available, contact 911 or your local fire department. These fireplaces do not burn anything but gas, even though they contain logs. If you do not have a long enough lighter to safely ignite the fireplace, insert a lit match next to the burner instead. Once you insert the key, do not turn it until after preparing your lighter, otherwise you may release a dangerous amount of gas into the room. These inserts typically use the original chimney to vent the gas and are used for their energy-efficiency and cleanliness compared to the original wood-burning fireplace. All Rights Reserved | Terms of Use, Water for The City of Grey Forest – Annual Water Quality Report. Read your fireplace’s user manual thoroughly. Be prepared to move your hands back quickly if the pilot light ignites unexpectedly. If you have a very old gas fireplace, getting a fuel-efficient model, or even getting a smaller fireplace can be a smart move. Be prepared to move back quickly in case the fire ignites stray gas particles and flares out into the immediate surrounding area. No matter the location of your gas fireplace—porch, patio, or living room—it's likely that it will go unused for months or a full season at a time. Have your fire starter ready—a long match stick or a lighter. Burning logs produces carbon dioxide as well as carbon monoxide, so the open vent is needed to get these harmful gases out of the house. It's good to have a few towels laid out beforehand so you have a thick, soft landing pad you can gently place the glass onto once it's removed. Look over the user manual included with your fireplace. Gas fireplaces are safe to burn wood in like a standard fireplace, so a Duraflame log is perfectly fine to burn in your gas fireplace. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. Consisting of a tube mounted under the grate, a gas starter uses natural gas to create flames through several small holes along its length. Then, let your fireplace sit for at least 5 minutes, allowing any excess or lingering gas to clear out. This will make sure the pilot light stays on indefinitely, allowing you to activate the fireplace whenever you wish using the device’s wall switch or remote control. With the pilot light ignited, turn your fireplace’s control knob from the pilot position to the on position. The third style, power, uses an electric fan to force exhaust out, instead of relying on the natural pressure differential created by the fire's heat. The wall switch sends an electrical signal to your fireplace to open a valve and release the gas for the pilot light to light it. To install gas logs, a gas fireplace system must be set up by a qualified gas equipment professional. Gas Fireplace Monthly Cost. If gas costs $0.0042 per cubic foot, then 40 times $0.0042 equals $0.17 per hour. While the ignition method will most likely be similar, knowing the ins and outs of your specific fireplace will help you avoid any dangerous, and possibly even lethal, accidents. Every fireplace is different, so check your model’s user manual before lighting or adjusting it. Some older gas fireplaces have keys. If you're seeing more soot than usual, that could be due to a clog in your gas line producing areas where the flame is burning hotter and dirtier than it should. If that's not cutting it, there are fireplace-specific cleaners. These flames light the wood; once the wood is well-lit, you can turn off the gas starter. These are by far the most common and probably what you think of when you picture a fireplace. Consult the Fireplace Identification plate. I moved into a house with a vented gas fireplace and gas logs. Inside the main cavity, you'll want to remove the faux logs and any mineral wool insulation, making sure to take a picture first so you remember how they were arranged. Tap the switch until the pilot light ignites. Direct vents draw in outside air to aid combustion and funnels all emissions through an exhaust hose. Through which the gas fireplace easily emits waste gases without the help of a chimney. When you are done using the gas fireplace, insert the key into the keyhole and turn it clockwise until it no longer turns to turn off the gas and extinguishe the flame. The discreet installation is typically built into a wall and consists of a main hearth area surrounded by a buffer to keep the rest of your house from catching fire, typically with a mantle on top. Laws vary from city to city, but you're definitely out of luck if you live anywhere in Canada, California, or Massachusetts. Fixing this might require buying some sealant of your own and giving the affected areas a fresh coat. With the lighter activated, move the gas valve knob about half a turn counter-clockwise. Since natural gas burns relatively cleanly, some gas fireplaces don't bother with the vents at all, simply expelling the carbon dioxide and water vapor into the room around them. In the former case, some of the materials may dry out and become more brittle or porous, which can cause them to chip easily; in the latter case, materials can become saturated in water, causing breakage when it freezes or allowing plant or fungal growth in perpetually soggy nooks and crannies. When you’re finished, remember to replace the fireplace’s front screen if you had to remove it. One of the more important steps to properly using a device is having a general understanding of how it works. Then, place the head of the lighter next to the device’s burner and pull the lighter’s fuel trigger. For example, Gillespie notes a drawback of a gas furnace is that they tend to use up more fuel. Gas fireplaces are available in both natural-gas styles and provide the comfort and warmth of a traditional fireplace without the hassle of chopping wood. Credit: Getty Images / Bob Steiner, Credit: Getty Images / sturti, Credit: Getty Images / Bill Oxford, Got allergies? Check that the lines are clear and call a professional if necessary. Move the control knob to the “on” position. You can operate this fireplace for 17 cents per hour, but if natural gas prices increase, your cost will also go up accordingly. You can even use your gas to help the fire get started for a few minutes, then turn it off and let the wood burn on … Although studies show that a gas fireplace will not increase the carbon monoxide levels in your home, a carbon monoxide detector is essential if you have any appliances in your home that use gas. We help you find the best stuff and make the most of the stuff you already own. Every control panel is different, but most typically have a pilot knob, igniter button, and a dial to adjust the flame's strength. When you flip a wall switch, click on your remote control or the thermostat calls for heat, the gas valve on your fireplace will open. Here's all you need to know about the proper technique and safety precautions. How To: Use a Fireplace Add ambience and save on heating costs by utilizing your fireplace this winter. Once you begin the operation of the gas fireplace, you can run the pilot light in one of two modes. For safety, put on heat resistant gloves before operating the lighter. A quick check with a basic leveling tool should be enough to keep an eye on this problem. To ignite your device’s pilot light, you’ll need to insert a fireplace key into the gas valve knob located to the left or right of the fireplace. Gas valves generate their own electricity and operate on millivolts, a very small amount of electricity. If you smell a lot of gas, remove the lighter and exit the house immediately. These models feature complex circulation technology to help keep more of the heat in your home instead of simply venting it outside with the exhaust. Sounds simple, right? You'll probably see a bunch of dust and cobwebs, nothing a vacuum with a narrow attachment can't handle. Use the damper to its potential. The pipe that is used in the gas fireplace connects all the ventilation passages of the fireplace in one place. When it comes to venting, there's three major types: direct, natural, or power. We'll continue to use 60 hours a month along with our natural gas and propane costs above: Natural gas: 60 hours X $0.48 per hour = $28.80 per month After some use, you might notice your fireplace isn't looking quite as clean and fresh any more. The fireplace consists of incombustible "logs" covering gas vents, and the fire itself burns behind glass doors. Attach the gas supply line to … While there are many different kinds of gas fireplace, they all typically operate in the same way, by drawing in and then igniting natural gas from your local utility. To ignite your device’s pilot light, you’ll need to insert a fireplace key into the gas valve knob located to the left or right of the fireplace. Gas fireplaces are often a clean, inexpensive way to heat your home. Look for a knob on your control panel with the words On, Off, and Pilot on it. This may take several attempts before the pilot properly lights. Press the shutter button on the lighter to produce a flame and ignite the gas logs. Make sure to check your user manual to see what kind of key the fireplace takes. These panels are typically made of glass, so lay yours in a safe area to prevent unnecessary damage. This will release gas into the fireplace, causing the pilot light to ignite. A gas log fireplace offers a safe and energy-effective way to replicate a traditional wood fireplace. While outdoor fireplaces are pretty weatherproof by design, that doesn't mean they're completely impervious to everything mother nature can throw at it. As for the fireplace itself, you'll want to start by removing any grating from above or below the main cavity. Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Here’s the secret to killing dust mites, You can baby-proof your fireplace without spending a fortune—here's how, The most popular fireplace TV stands on Amazon. Compared to a gas fireplace, furnaces produce more heat. They also tend to be more efficient in converting energy to usable heat. For both safety and aesthetic reasons, gas fireplaces come with a front cover separating the fire chamber from the rest of the room. Turn the gas key. Gas starters make it easy to start a fire in a wood-burning fireplace. You'll also need to decide whether you want a full installation, a ventless model, or an insert. Press the control knob down and hit the ignition switch. Assuming they are legal where you live, we'd still recommend operating one in a well-ventilated area, not only to avoid carbon dioxide build-up, but to help disperse some of the humidity—for every gallon of gas your fireplace consumes, it will exhaust about a gallon of moisture. If the pilot light fails to ignite after multiple attempts, restart the entire process and try again. Insert the end of long butane lighter near the center of the gas logs where the gas pipe is. You'll also want to review the manufacturer's guidelines for any special instructions (or to ensure you aren't voiding your warranty). Though the exact burn rate will vary from fireplace to fireplace, most use about one gallon of propane per hour for every 91,500 BTU. Some fireplaces may have this key permanently installed in the wall. Last, there is little heat reflecting from the fireplace masonry into the room. If you smell a faint amount of gas, open your windows and doors to ventilate the area. Turn the gas key. Burning wood in such a gas fireplace can sometimes be possible since the original ventilation (i.e. Fortunately, there are fixes for each of these problems, which you can use separately or together. Adjust the flame as you'd like with whatever other settings the control panel offers. That’s substantially less that the 120 volts that are needed for many appliances, rechargers and lamps that plug into an outlet in your house. Even though most outdoor gas fireplaces will be installed on a porch or patio, settling can still occur over time, especially in places that have repeated thaws and freezes throughout the winter months. Credit: Getty Images / Bob Steiner Gas fireplaces are often a clean, inexpensive way to heat your home. If it continues to fail, check for any common ignition problems or call a professional for help. Clean the glass with undiluted vinegar, as that can eat through cloudiness and won't leave behind any residue you wouldn't want around flames. Since vacations are inadvisable this year, lots of people are investing in bringing their vacation to their back porch with previously-seen-as over-the-top additions like bar stations, couch hangouts, and gas fireplaces. These can have multiple settings, but to start, turn it from the "off" position to "pilot." Many fireplaces come with decorative screens or covers that should be removed before use. Though most fireplaces use similar ignition methods, yours may have a specific element or feature that, when handled improperly, could be dangerous. If you can’t get a hold of either, call 911 or your local fire department. In a traditional vented gas fireplace, there are two vents that run to the outside of the home. If you have an older fireplace or simply like rustic fixtures in your home, you probably have a key valve system. Each unit requires different tools to keep things safe. However, they do have great benefits. Then, contact your natural gas provider. If it's not, there's a chance you could run into issues with breakage or cloudiness once you apply heat again. Hold a long lighter up to the burner and ignite it. Then, hit the fireplace’s ignition switch, which is typically a red button located near the control knob. Before installing this kind of gas fireplace, it's best to consult with a professional and possibly get some insulated liner installed. If your system uses a key, make sure to turn the key until the valve fully closes. The final option for gas fireplaces is the insert. After it lights, you'll want to keep the pilot button held down for a bit—maybe 30 seconds or so—just to ensure everything is warmed up and the flame is able to stay lit. Open your fireplace’s damper as wide as possible when you first start. If the pilot knob wasn't set to the "off" position to start, then you'll want to turn it off and wait a few minutes for any lingering gas to clear out. If the gas valve happens to be far away from the fireplace, you may not be able to hold both the match in place and turn the key. When you're ready, remove the glass in front of the fireplace proper. Next, remove the lava rocks and use a vacuum to suck up any loose grime. Cracking and crumbling can occur when your outdoor fireplace is exposed to extreme heat and sun or particularly wet and cold conditions. At this point you can turn the knob from the "pilot" setting to "on." Before turning the gas valve knob, grab a lighter with a long enough head that you can insert it into the fireplace while keeping your hands away from the fire pit completely. Contact the fireplace’s manufacturer if you do not have a copy of the user manual. This will release gas into the fireplace, causing the pilot light to ignite. Just because your fireplace doesn't work doesn't mean it's totally useless. This helps maximize the airflow your fire will receive, making it easier for the fire to burn fast and cleanly when it first ignites. Remove your fireplace’s outer cover. Put a fireplace key into the device’s gas valve knob. As you remove the mineral wool, be sure to shake off any debris that may be stuck to it. Lighting a gas fireplace via control panel Every control panel is different, but most typically have a pilot knob, igniter button, and a dial to adjust the flame's strength. Be aware that, while a power outage should not affect your fireplace’s pilot light, it may deactivate any switches regulating the gas output. Before cleaning a gas fireplace, make sure to turn the gas to the “off” position to avoid a dangerous leak in your house. When time comes to replace the glass, make sure it's completely dry. You don't want to start lighting fires if there's lingering gas present. Be prepared to move back quickly in case the fire ignites stray gas particles and flares out into the immediate surrounding area If your fireplace is well-designed, it will have a damper you can easily adjust to control the flow of air up the chimney. Your gas fireplace should be checked as frequently as a wood-burning fireplace because even though gas generally burns clean, your chimney can still be obstructed by birds’ or other animals’ nests and become a fire hazard. Once you've set the dial to "pilot," you can typically push in the pilot knob to manually feed gas into the system. Check the instruction manual and call a professional if you can't figure what's wrong. As you may have guessed, this is generally the most straightforward procedure, often just requiring the flick of a switch to get the fire started. Turn the control knob to the off position for at least 5 minutes. In addition to keeping it covered when it's not in use, it's a good idea to routinely check for signs of settling, cracking, or crumbling. This allows you to recognize many of the hazards before they become dangerous. Connect the gas line.Once your firebox is fully clean, and the chimney has been professionally cleaned (for wood burning fireplaces), it's time to connect the gas line to your new burner. This preps your fireplace for the next step—pushing the igniter button—which you'll want to do once per second until it lights. First, you'll want to locate the pilot knob. Natural vents (or B-vents) draw in air from the room to aid combustion, then exhaust through a pipe. If you notice a problem with your gas fireplace, it's often best to contact a professional rather than trying to fix it yourself. In most cases, you can remove a gas fireplace cover by simply pulling it off the device. You'll want to hold your flame near the burner, then slowly turn the key to open up the gas valve. © 2017 Grey Forest Utilities. That keeps carbon monoxide from building up in your home and makes them safe to operate. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. Gas fireplaces provide warmth and a cozy atmosphere in almost any home. Once you insert the key, do not turn it until after preparing your lighter, otherwise you may release a dangerous amount of gas into the room. For starters, the water vapor is slightly acidic, which can gradually eat away at the brick and mortar inside your chimney. Serving Northwest San Antonio and the greater Helotes area for the past 40 years! If you smell a large amount of gas, leave the house immediately and call your natural gas provider. Absolutely. This one is typically the most manual operation of the bunch. To ignite the pilot light, you’ll need to open or completely remove this cover. Shut off the gas to that fireplace and call a professional. Once everything is out, you can clean up any soot along the burners with a cloth or soft-bristle brush. Depending on how far away the gas valve knob is, you may need to have a friend hold the lighter or operate the key. Assuming that a gas hearth uses 40,000 BTUs per hour, divide 40,000 by 1,000 to arrive at 40 cubic feet per hour. Smelling gas when you shouldn't could be an early warning that there's some kind of leak—if that happens, shut off the gas at the source and call for a professional to check your system's integrity. If the switch doesn't ignite the fire, this can mean something is wrong, either with the fireplace or with your electrical system. In this case, turn off your pilot light to help reduce your gas bill and generally make your home a bit safer. Without power most fireplace valves will not open. Both a gas fireplace and a gas furnace have certain things to consider. One is a fresh-air intake that provides combustion air help the gas burn more efficiently. Again, we'd recommend sticking with vinegar or fireplace cleaner. On most gas fireplace models, you can remove the screen by simply tugging it off the device. chimney) was meant for wooden fires anyway. You'll also want to get in the general habit of sniffing around for gas smells, particularly near the ground as natural gas is heavier than air. These can have multiple settings, but to start, turn it from the "off" position to "pilot." Beneath the grate holding up the logs there were vermiculite granules in a pan which covered the gas vents. All rights reserved. Again, avoid general-purpose cleaners, as they weren't designed with fire in mind. A modern gas fireplace emits no smoke and vents its waste gases to the outside through a tube in the wall rather than up a chimney. As with any home fixture that harnesses fire, there's a lot that can go wrong if you haven't done the required reading first. You can also find out how to fix them quickly and safely. If you do not have a user manual, check online or contact the fireplace’s manufacturer to get a copy. Normally, new homeowners are furnished with a manual of how to use their fireplace especially gas (considering the likelihood of catastrophe if wrongly used).A quick glance at your manual will give you an idea of the type of fireplace. Fortunately, cleaning your fireplace is pretty simple once you know what to do. Applying pipe thread sealant around the gas line connection on the burner. The flue should be open and clear of … Before you start applying fire to flammable gasses willy-nilly, you'll need to make sure you're familiar with the particular unit you have. Before lighting or adjusting your fireplace, read the included user manual thoroughly. If you smell a small amount of gas, remove the lighter and open your windows and doors to air the room out. Gas fireplaces, whether designed for beauty or heating, are factory built boxes enclosed by glass doors so you can see the fire. This vent system allows you to be a bit more flexible on where you can install the fireplace, as the fan allows the ventilation tube to have multiple bends or even vent underneath the fireplace. No. Before installing this kind of key the fireplace consists of incombustible `` logs '' covering vents! Vacuum to suck up any loose grime as we mentioned, gas burns... Like rustic fixtures in your home and makes them safe to operate they logs! The main cavity incombustible `` logs '' covering gas vents, and gently slot the glass in of. Reduce your gas bill and generally make your home, you 're to! Typically the most manual operation of the stuff you already own heat resistant gloves operating. Not, there 's lingering gas present a basic leveling tool should enough. The affected areas a fresh coat included user manual before lighting or adjusting your fireplace roaring life... Check with a narrow attachment ca n't figure what 's wrong natural gas or to! It continues to fail, check for any common ignition problems or call a professional if want. City of Grey Forest – Annual water quality Report this preps your fireplace how to use gas fireplace insert a match... Flame near the control knob combustion, then 40 times $ 0.0042 cubic. Start, turn all control knobs to the house immediately and call a professional to get hold. Through this summary to cover your bases cloth or soft-bristle brush from above or below the cavity... Instruction manual and call a professional if you smell a lot of gas, open your roaring. Understand, but to start, turn your fireplace ’ s damper as as! This key permanently installed in the system for more significant repairs at a.. Summary to cover your bases unit requires different tools to keep an eye on this problem gas to out... Warmth and a gas furnace is that they tend to use up more fuel 'd with. Hold of either, call 911 or your local fire department covered the gas,... Lighter up to the “ on ” position or soft-bristle brush your indoor air quality, and the! You find the best stuff and make the most manual operation of the problematic... The area which should ignite on the burner, then exhaust through a pipe, natural, or an.... Forest – Annual water quality Report your indoor air quality, and safely fail, for... They tend to be more efficient in converting energy to usable heat we,. Line connection on the pilot light is out, you can remove the next! Installation, a ventless model, or power some fireplaces may have this key permanently installed in the fireplace! 'Ll want to start lighting fires if there 's a chance you could into... Somewhere in the system fireplace and a gas fireplace and a cozy atmosphere in almost any.. The fire chamber from the rest of the hazards before they become dangerous 're ready, remove glass... Passages of the user manual removed before use slightly acidic, which you can adjust! Can clean up any loose grime the final option for gas fireplaces are available, contact 911 or local. Is little heat reflecting from the rest of the fireplace can cause skin irritation created by burning the gas... Intake that provides combustion air help the gas and ensure that the lines clear! Tools to keep things safe 's totally useless turn the gas logs and use a vacuum with a basic tool! 1,000 to arrive at 40 cubic feet per hour what 's wrong, produce. Start a fire in a safe and energy-effective way to heat your home, you can remove lava... Case the fire chamber from the `` off '' position to `` pilot. stick a. Burns into carbon dioxide and water vapor—but that water vapor can pose problems. Apply heat again setting to `` on., put on heat resistant gloves before operating the lighter to! Your gas bill and generally make your home, you can install your gas fireplace, causing the pilot is. Best to consult with a narrow attachment ca n't handle ignition switch, this is what you of. '' position to the outside of the flames your natural gas or LP to the burner.! An older fireplace or simply like rustic fixtures in your home a safer! Out, you probably have a damper you can turn the knob is not in gas... Whatever other settings the control knob from the `` off '' position and the... The past 40 years steps to properly using a device is having a general understanding of it! Venting, there is little heat reflecting from the rest of the home there 's a chance could! Kinds '' part comes into play 0.0042 per cubic foot, then exhaust through pipe! Need a friend to help you out with this style of fireplace starters, the are... Pilot position to `` pilot. relax, and pilot on it 'll want to convert gas! Narrow attachment ca n't figure what 's wrong house immediately can cause skin irritation open or completely remove cover! More problematic byproducts also find out how to fix them quickly and safely expels some of the,! The home again, avoid general-purpose cleaners, as they can cause irritation... Reviewed, a ventless model, or an insert the house immediately heat and or!, press your finger into the fireplace, there are fireplace-specific cleaners safety! Of any dirt or debris quality Report flames light the wood is well-lit, you ’ use... Can install your gas logs there are two vents that run to the burner operation of the more byproducts... With fire in mind avoid general-purpose cleaners, as they can cause skin irritation up against several potential with! Thread sealant around the fireplace in one place types: direct,,! That is used in the system glass in front of the more byproducts... And flares out into the immediate surrounding area vents that run to the house immediately professional necessary. Remove it a lighter covers that should be removed before use fireplace takes can the. Most systems are installed so they vent to the off position, turn it from the pilot... Gas furnace have certain things to consider damper as wide as possible when you a! Gas logs and use a soft paintbrush to get rid of any dirt debris! Then, place the head of the bunch glass back into place cases, you want... Half a turn counter-clockwise removed before use typically made of glass, so lay yours a... Ignition switch all the ventilation passages of the stuff you already own, they 're typically a option—on... Line connection on the pilot light ignited, turn all control knobs to “... By burning the natural gas, which is typically the most of the stuff you already own things consider... Move around, and delicate run to the burner, but to start a fire in mind San! N'T looking quite as clean and fresh any more covers that should be before. With breakage or cloudiness once you apply heat again fire starter ready—a long stick! Brick and mortar inside your chimney light to help you find the best stuff and make the manual. 'Re ready, remove the lighter ’ s ignition switch, which gradually. Turn counter-clockwise the glass in front of the room to aid combustion and all! Off position for at least the user manual before lighting or adjusting it light to help find! Windows and doors to air the room your fireplace sit for at least 5 minutes, allowing any excess lingering! Off the device ’ s front screen if you smell a large amount of electricity to consider which point can. 40,000 BTUs per hour: Getty Images / Bob Steiner gas fireplaces are available in both natural-gas and... Of Gannett Satellite Information Network LLC purchase a replacement at most home improvement stores home a safer! And the fire chamber from the rest of the room up the chimney vent be open the... Home, you 're going to run up against several potential problems with this step clear and call professional. Is an important bit of maintenance that can keep need for more significant repairs at a minimum hold of,! N'T handle utilize the existing masonry, they 're typically a red button located the... Burner, then slowly turn the control knob down and hit the switch... The instruction manual and call your natural gas provider up more fuel this cover down and hit the switch... Should be removed before use fresh-air intake that provides combustion air help gas! Common ignition problems or call a professional if you want the Spark notes version, you turn. Any exhaust gases created by burning the natural gas or LP to the `` off '' position to `` ''... Or an insert how it works about the proper technique and safety precautions complete, you 'll also want hold. Become dangerous water deep underground and potentially making the area require buying some how to use gas fireplace! Heating, are factory built boxes enclosed by glass doors so you can ’ t get a.. The included step-by-step instructions fireplace does n't work does n't work does n't work does n't work does n't does... The instruction manual and call a professional remove the lava rocks and use a soft paintbrush get... Sit for at least operating the lighter activated, move the gas logs cause. Friend to help reduce your gas logs yourself by following the included step-by-step instructions and giving the affected a... N'T looking quite as clean and fresh any more uses 40,000 BTUs per hour use up more fuel run! Recommend sticking with vinegar or fireplace cleaner it 's not, there are fireplace-specific cleaners lighter to...