The fireplace in your home is more than just a decorative focal point. Since the weather is getting colder, it now has a job to keep your family warm and toasty during the winter. Compared to wood-burning ones, gas fireplaces are exceedingly popular among folks for being efficient and convenient. However, there are some basic precautions you must definitely take to minimize the dangers of house fires.
Here are a few safety tips that will not only help you get the most out of your gas fireplace but also reduce the risk of injuries or house fires. What are they? Read on to know!
Clearance Zone
Every fireplace, no matter how advanced or old, has a clearance zone. Make sure that you keep flammable objects out of that zone. This includes clothing, paper items, oils, perfumes, and such.
Proper Ventilation
The gas emitted from your fireplace can be very harmful to your health. You need to keep the room with the fireplace well ventilated. Check the flue and air circulation passages to ensure that they are clean. Also, make sure that all the vents are functioning efficiently.
Safety screen
Safety screens over the glass protect flames or burning materials from coming out. They also provide protection from serious burns by creating a barrier over the hot glass. Hence, it is important to keep a screen in top condition. Install only factory-provided safety screens.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Since carbon monoxide is odorless, it cannot be detected easily. To ensure that the poisonous gas does not harm your family, install carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Place detectors near gas appliances, including fireplaces. Get the detectors inspected in every six months to ensure their efficiency.
Yearly Inspection
Get your fireplace checked and cleaned by professionals at least once a year. It will keep a fireplace working smoothly and reduce the possibility of fire hazards. The best time for a quick checkup is before the winter rolls in and you light the fire for the first time.
Direct-Vented Model
One of the best ways to ensure safety is by opting for direct-vented fireplace models. They have closed combustion systems which prevent harmful combustion gases from leaving the fireplace and filling your home. Direct-vented fireplaces release the combustion gases outside, providing a cleaner and safer environment.
No-Go Zone For Kids
No matter how durable the safety screen is, it is bound to get hot. To avoid any unexpected crisis, ask your children to stay away from the fireplace. You can even establish a ‘no-go’ zone two feet in front of the fireplace.
Unsupervised Fireplace
Even if it is a gas fireplace, make sure that you never leave your fireplace unattended. It only takes a single stray ember or spark to ignite nearby items. Always have someone keep a watch when the fireplace is lighted.
Things To Keep In Mind
Never turn the gas fireplace on if there is a crack in the glass or if any other part is damaged.
Never touch the fireplace when it is in operation.
Don’t start cleaning your fireplace until it has completely cooled down.
Before leaving your home, double check that you have turned off the fireplace.
Gas fireplaces come in different models. Make sure that you know everything about the usage of your fireplace.
Never use the fireplace during renovations.
If you have a gas fireplace that you need cleaning and repair services for, our experts at Able Appliance & HVAC Service can help you! Our team will not only repair the fireplace but will also help you with any other issues you may be facing.