One of the biggest advantages to gas hearth appliances is safety. Unlike their wood-burning counterpart, there are no popping embers or shifting logs that could start a fire in your home, and no dangerous buildup of creosote in your chimney. But that’s not to say that gas fireplaces, inserts and heating stoves are without there dangers. When you use your gas heating appliance this winter, there are some fire safety tips you should be carefully observing.
Keep Flammable Objects Away From the Fireplace.
There might not be the risk of embers jumping out of the fireplace and igniting nearby objects, but that’s not to say that gas fireplaces can’t burn nearby objects. Many gas fireplaces and stoves put off enough heat to ignite nearby objects. Keep anything flammable, such as curtains, pillows, books and furniture at least three feet away from your gas fireplace.
Use a Fireplace Screen.
You might think that fireplace screens are reserved for wood-burning fireplaces, but they do provide a safety benefit for gas fireplaces, especially if you have an open-hearth gas fireplace. Fireplace screens can stop children or pets from accidentally getting too close to the fireplace. Even with a closed gas fireplace system, a fireplace screen that covers the fireplace doors can remind children of the burn hazard the fireplace presents.
Have your Fireplace and Chimney Cleaned and Inspected by a Professional.
Gas fireplaces and heating stoves, and their chimneys, require annual cleanings and inspections, too. Gas fireplaces can collect dust and clog blowers and fans. Additionally, chunks of ceramic logs break away over time and can impede the functioning of the fireplace. Soot can gather in the chimney and cause corrosion. While an annual cleaning will make sure that your fireplace and chimney are clear of debris that might pose a hazard, your annual inspection will make sure that all components of the fireplace or stove are operating properly and that the appliance and chimney are safe to use for the coming year.
Make Sure our Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms are Working.
While gas heating appliances are incredibly safe, it’s important to take precautions in case of an emergency. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every floor of your home and in all sleeping areas. Check your alarms at least once every six months to make sure they are functioning properly.
If you’re looking for accessories, like hearth gates and fireplace screens, to improve the safety of your gas fireplace or heating stove – or if you’re searching for a new gas hearth appliance – stop by one of the FireSide Hearth & Home showrooms today! We have everything you need to increase the safety of your gas appliance, as well as a lineup of beautiful, safe and efficient gas hearth appliances.
