Gas Fireplace Safety and Considerations
In this article we list some of the common safety tips in relation to gas fireplaces. So let’s get started!
If your fireplace was installed in a house during renovation or construction, do not use it until the area has been cleaned thoroughly. The burners, motors, and fan can be harmed by drywall dust as well as other contaminants.
Before you modify or add a surround or mantle, check your manufacturer’s instructions (minimum clearances are necessary).
Before you initially use your fireplace, have it inspected first. Then continue to have the fireplace serviced regularly. Our technicians here at Furlong HVAC Services would be more than happy to do an annual service on your fireplace and to answer any operational questions you may have. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before you use your fireplace for the very first time.
Keep all combustibles away from any hot surfaces while using your fireplace.
If the flame or pilot light goes out, wait for at least minutes (check your manufacturer’s instructions). Before you try relighting the fireplace. That will give time for gas to be cleared from the fireplace. This is especially important if you have a direct-vent model.
Be aware of any unusual flames or smells, which frequently are a sign that your fireplace is not working correctly. In these situations, call your dealer to have your fireplace service. If you smell any gas, contact your gas company.
Ensure that the fans and air-circulating passageways are kept free of obstruction and clean. Wait until the unit has completely cooled down before you use a damp cloth to wipe the glass (otherwise, you might cause breakage and thermal stress).
If glass breaks, call a reputable service technician to have the glass replaced.
With direct-vent, sidewall-exhausting units, make sure the external vent is kept clear of snow and debris at all times. Also, maintain the minimum clearances set by the manufacturer between the vent and walkways, shrubs, fences, etc.
If you do not own a sealed direct-vent fireplace, seriously consider having a carbon monoxide detector installed near your fireplace. This device continuously monitors the air for the presence of carbon monoxide, and if a high level is detected, sounds an alarm, just like a smoke detector signals the potential existence of fire (all houses in Canada should be equipped properly with smoke detectors already). If the carbon monoxide detector sounds the alarm, turn the fireplace off, open the windows, and immediately leave the house. If anyone experiences nausea, extreme lethargy, or headaches during one of these occurrences, she or he should seek medical treatment immediately. It also is essential to determine the cause and source of high levels of carbon monoxide and contact a professional to remedy the situation.
Gas Fireplace Efficiency Tips
Buying an energy-efficient gas fireplace and locating and installing it properly are essential first steps to controlling the operating costs of your fireplace and to helping the environment as well. It is also critical to use your fireplace smartly after it has been installed as we’ve discussed above. To minimize the energy consumption and maximize the performance of your fireplace, make sure to follow basic guidelines.
If you purchase a fireplace that has a pilot light, you might want to turn the pilot light off during the summer and the heating season whenever you are not using your fireplace frequently. Carefully follow your manufacturer’s instructions when you relight it.
When you are operating your fireplace, turn the main thermostat of your home down whenever you can.
If there is a thermostat on your fireplace, keep it on the lowest possible setting that provides you with an acceptable level of comfort. Then turn it down whenever you are not using your fireplace (otherwise the thermostat might cycle the fireplace to on even if no one is at home or a room is not being used).
– To maximize the transfer of radiant heat, make sure the glass is kept clean. Keep in mind that an energy-efficient, well-designed gas fireplace, that is located and maintained properly, can provide you with many hours of comfort and pleasure while lowering your overall heating bills at the same time.
For all of your home heating, cooling and ventilation needs, contact us today!
