Safety Tips for Your Gas Fireplace in Wausau, WI

So, you’re thinking about installing a new fireplace or replacing an old insert, but should you get one that runs on gas or wood? When it comes to natural gas fireplaces, users are graced with convenience and efficiency. It offers the feel, look and enjoyment of a real wood-burning fireplace without the inconveniences that accompany wood, like cutting logs, cleaning up ashes and restarting weak flames. The top thing people love about gas fireplaces is the minimal maintenance needed. Basically, all you need to do is clean the glass doors, logs and embers every so often.

Whether you have a vented or vent-free gas fireplace in Wausau, WI in your home or business, the following safety tips are for you.

Install carbon monoxide detectors

The biggest safety issue to be aware of with a gas fireplace is carbon monoxide—the fumes can be deadly. You should already have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home. If not, install them right away and, for safety’s sake, check them frequently to ensure they are functioning properly and replace the batteries every six months. Vent-free fireplaces come with oxygen depletion sensors that are designed to shut down if they detect too much carbon monoxide in the area. Vented gas fireplaces, on the other hand, will vent fumes out of your house through a chimney or special pipe installations.

Watch out for heat and combustible objects

Gas fireplaces generate a lot of heat, so it’s important to note that, like wood-burning fireplaces, the surfaces of your gas fireplace—the glass on the front, the screens and the frame—can get hot enough to cause severe burns. Also, keep all combustibles away from the fireplace. This is an especially important step for owners of vent-free fireplaces, because they’re made to have a near complete combustion. Install a safety screen and keep everything at least two feet away from the fireplace, including kids, pets and anything combustible.

Clean it and perform checks annually

The fireplace and all its hardware and components should always be kept clean. Clean the fan and air circulation passages, and make sure all the vents are unobstructed and are able to function properly. Annual maintenance checks are a crucial part of gas fireplace ownership. It’s a way to know the unit is running properly and safely. Perform a thorough check each year before lighting the fireplace for the first time, whether it’s during the fall or winter. Do you have a vented gas fireplace? Hiring a chimney sweep is a good plan. Consult your owner’s manual to perform these tasks yourself or hire a professional for annual maintenance.

Know there could be health risks

Another thing to consider when you have a gas fireplace are the potential health risks involved. Gas fireplaces, while excellent sources of heat, can cause respiratory problems for some people, as well as enhance or trigger breathing troubles for individuals already suffering from asthma, allergies and other respiratory issues. If someone in your house is sensitive, seriously consider another option.

For more information about installing or maintaining a gas fireplace in Wausau, WI, don’t hesitate to contact Marcell’s Specialties Inc. We look forward to helping you stay warm and cozy this winter!

Categorised in: Gas Fireplace

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