Whether you're already the happy owner of a vent-free gas fireplace or if you're looking for one to add to your home, it's a good idea to be aware of how to maintain it. While there are common threads that are true of all fireplaces, maintaining a vent-free gas fireplace does have some specific requirements. If you'd like to protect your investment and get the most out of a new or existing fireplace, we recommend following along with this helpful maintenance guide to learn more about how to care for your product.
How To Clean a Ventless Gas Fireplace
Like all fireplaces that burn fuel, be that gas or wood, a ventless fireplace will produce soot over time. Gas fireplaces produce less soot than their wood-burning cousins, but they still need to be cleaned from time to time. Here's a general step-by-step guide to cleaning your ventless gas fireplace:
- Start by turning off the gas supply and ensuring the fireplace is completely cool before cleaning
- Remove the exterior panels and use a soft brush or vacuum to remove any dust and debris, paying special attention to the burner and logs
- Wipe the logs gently with a damp cloth to remove soot build-up
- Inspect the burner, pilot assembly and igniter for any blockage or damage
- Replace the exterior panels and test that the fireplace operates correctly
To ensure the best results when cleaning your gas fireplace, be sure to use high-quality cleaning products designed for that specific use case.
How To Light a Ventless Gas Fireplace
The exact method of lighting your vent-free gas fireplace will depend on the specific model in question, particularly the ignition type. We carry ventless gas fireplaces running the gamut from simple and classic match light ignitions to technologically advanced electronic ignitions that can be controlled from your smartphone, so be sure to consult with the owner's manual for exact directions for lighting your gas fireplace. Generally speaking, lighting a ventless gas fireplace requires turning on the fuel supply, applying a spark or flame to the burner to start the fire and modulating the flame using the fuel control system.
Do Ventless Gas Fireplaces Smell?
Yes, the combustion of natural gas or propane always produces an odor. Generally, a vented gas fireplace won't produce a noticeable smell because the exhaust gasses are expelled through the chimney, but a ventless gas fireplace doesn't have the benefit of that airflow, leading to a more pronounced smell. This smell is a result of trace impurities present in all sources of natural gas and propane, which produce this smell when burned. While it's not possible to completely eliminate this smell, it is possible to reduce or mitigate it with the use of a high-quality fireplace that burns as cleanly and efficiently as possible.
Should the Flue be Open on a Ventless Gas Fireplace?
The defining feature of a vent-free gas fireplace is that they can be safely burned without an open chimney. This means you can burn a ventless gas fireplace without the flue open. However, it is still acceptable to open the flue as well, if you prefer. Having the flue open will reduce the fireplace's heat output, but some homeowners prefer to do so as it provides better airflow and can reduce the odor produced by gas combustion.
Finding the Right Ventless Gas Fireplace
If you're already the proud owner of a ventless gas fireplace, we hope this guide has been helpful for you. If you're interested in buying a ventless gas fireplace for your home, we can help. Our expert team knows all the ins and outs of selecting the correct gas fireplace and are happy to provide guidance in finding the perfect model for your home.
