Preparing Your Propane Fireplace for Winter

Few things can compare to the pleasure of sitting in front of a roaring fire on a cold night – especially when all you have to do to get that fire is push a button. That’s the kind of convenience you get when you install a propane hearth in your Southern Kentucky or Middle Tennessee home.

If you already have a propane fireplace, propane firebox insert or propane log set, you already know how versatile it can be – filling roles as a high efficiency space heater, family gathering spot and backup, off-the-grid heat source in one beautiful and convenient package.

But it will only do all of those things if it’s working properly.

To make sure it does, here are seven things you should do before winter arrives in earnest later this month:

• Review the owner’s manual – It’s always a good idea to refresh your memory with a quick look at your unit’s operating instructions before you get down to serious fireside marathons. PLEASE NOTE: If your owner’s manual includes different guidelines than the ones we list below, please follow your manufacturer’s instructions.
• Clean the fireplace vent – Remove any debris (cobwebs, stick, leaves, etc.) from the fireplace vent to prevent a hazard or carbon monoxide risk in your home.
• Inspect the glass – If you have a glass-covered propane fireplace insert, check it for cracks or chips; the glass casing helps contain carbon monoxide emissions.
• Clean your log set – If you have a propane fireplace log set, it can gather dust in the off-season that can create an unpleasant smell when you light your fire. If you choose to clean your log set, please keep in mind the following:
  • Always make sure your propane gas valve is closed before doing any work on your gas fireplace.
  • Your logs must be returned to their EXACT position after cleaning; logs that are not positioned properly can cause carbon buildup and damage your fireplace. Consider photographing the logs before you remove them to remember how they are positioned.

  Once you remove the logs, clear dust with a handheld vacuum.

• Dust off the blower – If your hearth has an electric blower to distribute heat, clear away any dust from it with a bristled brush. If dust falls into the mechanism as you brush, vacuum it up after you finish cleaning the blower.
• Check your pilot light – If your fireplace has a pilot light, inspect it visually; if you see loose wires, contact us for service. If you don’t see any issues, test the pilot light; if you encounter a problem, contact us for service.
• Schedule preventative maintenance – Gas fireplaces should have professional annual maintenance to identify gas leaks, broken sensors, and other problems.

Enjoy a warm fire and peace of mind with expert propane service, propane fireplace installations, and reliable propane deliveries anywhere in our Tennessee or Kentucky service areas. Contact us today to learn more!