6/9
Dirty Gas Fireplace
Not cleaning your gas fireplace often enough can cause several issues, like lower flame height, decreased heat output and even gas leaks.
When cleaning, make sure the gas is turned off and the fireplace is completely cool. Next, carefully vacuum any dust and debris off all surfaces, including the burners. Use only manufacturer-approved glass cleaner and inspect for chips or cracks while you’re at it. Remove any deteriorating artificial logs to prevent them from causing a malfunction. Finally, have a technician inspect your vents, flue and chimney and remove any debris there. Next, read about how to clean fireplace brick.
7/9
Low Heat Output
If your fires don’t burn well or provide much heat, poor quality firewood could be why. One common mistake among inexperienced wood burners is using freshly-cut or “green” wood, which still has plenty of moisture in it. That prevents it from burning cleanly or giving much heat. Make sure to burn only seasoned wood that has been properly dried for at least several months.
8/9
Poor Draft From Closed or Stuck Damper
A fireplace damper is an adjustable steel flap that keeps more or less heat in your home, depending on how open or closed it is. It always needs to be at least a little open when a fire is going to maintain draft and let the smoke leave through the chimney. If you forget to open the damper, smoke will billow into your house and endanger your health.
Always make sure the damper is fully open when a fire is first lit, and keep it at least a little open as long as combustion is still happening. Sometimes the damper’s hinge mechanism stops moving smoothly due to dirt, creosote buildup and corrosion.
When the fireplace isn’t in use, clean the damper and damper hinge thoroughly with a wire brush, then coat the hinge with a lubricating oil that creeps, like WD-40. Give the oil some time to move into the hinge, then work the damper open and shut repeatedly until it moves smoothly.
