Gas Fireplace Care, Safety & Troubleshooting Guide

Your gas fireplace should be easy to enjoy—and knowing how to operate and care for it properly can help keep it looking great and performing safely for years to come. Whether you have a gas fireplace, insert, or stove, we've put together answers to some of the questions we hear most often from homeowners, including how to clean your fireplace glass, what to expect from a new fireplace, what happens during a power outage, and when it's time to call a professional. Always follow the operating and safety instructions provided with your specific appliance. If you're unsure about how your fireplace operates, our experienced team is happy to help.

Gas Fireplace Safety Every Homeowner Should Know

Gas fireplaces are convenient and provide comfortable heat, but they still require proper operation and care.

• Keep children and pets away from a burning fireplace. Fireplace glass and surrounding surfaces can become extremely hot, even when a protective screen is installed.

• Keep furniture, decorations, and other combustible materials away from the fireplace. Follow the clearance requirements specified by your appliance manufacturer.

• Never operate a fireplace with damaged or improperly installed glass. Direct-vent fireplaces are designed to operate with the glass panel in place.

• Allow your fireplace to cool completely before cleaning or performing any homeowner maintenance.

• Follow your manufacturer's instructions for pilot-light operation. Some appliances are designed to operate differently, so consult your owner's manual or contact our service team if you're unsure.

• Have your fireplace professionally inspected and serviced as recommended by the manufacturer. Regular service can help identify issues before they become larger problems.

If you smell gas, leave the area immediately and follow your gas utility's emergency instructions. Do not attempt to diagnose or repair a suspected gas leak yourself.

Why Does My New Gas Fireplace Smell?

A new gas fireplace, insert, or stove may produce an odor during its first several burns. This is commonly caused by the curing of factory-applied paint and other materials used during manufacturing.

The odor should diminish as the appliance completes its curing process.

How to Cure a New Gas Fireplace

Your manufacturer's instructions should always take priority, but a typical curing process involves operating the fireplace at higher temperatures for several hours while providing adequate ventilation.

Step 1: Initial Burn

Operate the fireplace according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically at a high flame setting for approximately two hours. Opening windows can help dissipate odors.

Turn the fireplace off and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: High-Heat Curing

Operate the fireplace again at a high setting until the odors begin to diminish. This may take several hours.

Step 3: Final Curing

Continue operating the fireplace according to the manufacturer's instructions until the remaining odors have diminished.

The complete curing process can take 10 or more hours of burning. You may notice a slight odor when the fireplace is first used after sitting unused for an extended period, but this should diminish with continued use.

If you notice a persistent or unusual odor that does not seem related to the normal curing process, turn the appliance off and contact a qualified professional.

Will My Gas Fireplace Work During a Power Outage?

It depends on the type of ignition system your fireplace uses.

Some gas fireplaces can operate during a power outage, while others require electricity to operate certain components or ignition systems.

Your fireplace's owner's manual will explain how your specific appliance operates during a power outage. Some systems use batteries as backup power, while millivolt systems can operate without household electricity.

Not sure what type of system you have? Contact us and we'll help you figure it out.

How to Clean Gas Fireplace Glass

Gas fireplace glass is designed to withstand high temperatures, but it still needs to be handled carefully.

Always allow the fireplace to cool completely before cleaning the glass.

For routine cleaning:

1. Turn the fireplace off and allow it to cool completely.

2. Follow your manufacturer's instructions for removing the glass.

3. Use a cleaner specifically recommended for gas fireplace glass.

4. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners unless your manufacturer specifically recommends them.

5. Use a soft, lint-free cloth.

6. Reinstall the glass exactly as instructed before operating the fireplace.

Never operate a direct-vent fireplace with the glass removed.

Why Does My Gas Fireplace Glass Look Cloudy?

Condensation can appear on the glass when a fireplace is first started, particularly after it has been sitting unused. Some condensation is normal and should dissipate as the fireplace warms up.

If you notice unusual or persistent discoloration, soot, or residue on the glass, your fireplace may need professional service.

Gas Fireplace Operation Basics

Most modern gas fireplaces are controlled by a remote, although some models also have wall switches or other controls.

Your remote may control features such as:

• Flame height

• Heat output

• Fan speed

• Thermostat settings

• Lighting

• Other appliance-specific features

Because controls vary by manufacturer and model, your owner's manual is the best source for specific operating instructions.

Need Help With Your Fireplace Remote?

We're happy to help you understand how your fireplace works. Our technicians can provide guidance during a service visit, and you can also contact our team or visit our showroom with questions.

How Can I Get the Most Heat From My Gas Fireplace?

Gas fireplaces can be an effective way to provide zone heating, allowing you to focus heat in the rooms your family uses most.

Here are a few ways to get the most from your appliance:

Keep Your Fireplace Clean

Dust, debris, soot, and obstructions can affect flame appearance and appliance performance. Regular professional service helps keep the appliance and venting system clean and operating properly.

Use the Fan When Appropriate

If your fireplace, insert, or stove has a circulating fan, using it can help distribute warm air throughout the room.

Focus Heat Where You Live

Zone heating can make sense in frequently occupied rooms. Your fireplace may allow you to reduce your reliance on central heating in those spaces, depending on your home's design and the appliance's heating capacity.

Keep Your Venting Clear

Outdoor vent terminations can be affected by leaves, debris, snow, or nesting animals. Regular inspection helps ensure the venting system remains clear.

Gas Fireplaces & Colorado's High Altitude

Living in Colorado comes with unique considerations for gas appliances.

Elevation can affect gas appliance performance and combustion, which is why proper installation, setup, and appliance selection are particularly important in Colorado's mountain communities.

Our team understands the challenges of working with gas fireplaces at Colorado's elevations and can help you determine what your specific appliance and home require.

If you're installing a new gas fireplace or experiencing unusual flame behavior or performance, our experts can help.

When Should I Call a Fireplace Professional?

Contact a qualified professional if:

• Your fireplace won't ignite or stay lit.

• The pilot repeatedly goes out.

• The flame looks unusual or has changed significantly.

• You notice unexpected soot or discoloration.

• The glass is damaged or cracked.

• You hear unusual sounds.

• You smell gas.

• Your fireplace isn't producing the heat it normally does.

• You suspect a venting problem.

• You're unsure whether your fireplace is operating safely.

When in doubt, it's better to have your fireplace checked by a professional.

Gas Fireplace FAQs

How do I remove the glass from my gas fireplace?

Your owner's manual contains model-specific instructions for removing the glass. Many fireplaces use clips, latches, or spring-loaded mechanisms. Always turn the fireplace off and allow it to cool completely before removing the glass.

Can I remove the glass from my gas fireplace while it's burning?

No. If your fireplace is designed with a sealed glass front, the glass must remain properly installed whenever the appliance is operating. Remove it only when the fireplace is completely off and cool and when your manufacturer's instructions permit removal.

Do gas fireplace logs need to be cleaned?

Yes. Gas logs can accumulate dust and soot over time. Cleaning them requires care because the logs must be returned to their exact positions to maintain proper airflow and flame behavior.

Professional cleaning is part of our gas fireplace service.

What are outside-air kits, and do I need one?

An outside-air kit can provide combustion air to certain fireplace installations. Whether one is appropriate or required depends on the appliance, installation, home construction, and applicable requirements.

Because Colorado's elevation can add another consideration, we recommend discussing your specific installation with a qualified professional.

How often should a gas fireplace be serviced?

Follow your manufacturer's recommendations for inspection and service. Regular professional service can help keep your fireplace clean, operating properly, and safe to use.

Need Help With Your Gas Fireplace?

Whether you have a question about your fireplace, need help troubleshooting a problem, or it's time for professional service, our experienced team is here to help. We service all brands and honor manufacturer warranties. You don't have to be the fireplace expert. We are.