Gas Fireplace Inserts Safety Tips To Keep Your Family Safe
To enjoy a new gas fireplace insert, important safety precautions must be taken
. First, with the installation, and secondly with proper use and care. A few simple rules will protect your family and your personal residence while providing many hours of warm enjoyment.
1. Proper installation of your gas fireplace insert is imperative. Have your gas fireplace insert installed by a qualified and certified technician that both knows and will comply with local codes for electrical grounding. Additionally, take the necessary time to thoroughly read the owner's manual, paying particular attention to the all safety precautions. Review these with your family members. Remember to keep the owner manual in a place where it is easily accessible.
2. The owner's manual includes operating instructions which must be thoroughly followed to ensure safety. Propane tanks must be located outside of your home, not inside any structure. Always keep combustible materials such as gas away from the fireplace where flammable materials are stored. Provide adequate ventilation at all times. Do not use your fireplace when a glass door is open or removed or if a door or a log is either cracked or broken.
3. Maintenance, care and cleaning are essential to ensure proper working order. Air passages often become clogged with dust or lint and must be cleaned periodically to insure optimal performance. Before cleaning, the fireplace should be allowed to cool. Turn off the pilot light and the gas valve and remove all dust and debris from the air passages, controls and burners. On a yearly basis have a trained service technician inspect and clean the fireplace and venting system.
4. Invest in a carbon monoxide monitor. This is a very small investment that can save lives. Gas is odorless which leaves you unaware of an improper installation or malfunction. Even a very small amount of carbon monoxide can have a negative effect on you or your family. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning start with headaches, dizziness or nausea. If not treated they become more severe and progress to sleepiness, unconsciousness and can lead to death.
5. Importantly, if you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, immediately turn off the gas, open windows to air out the house and go outside to breathe fresh air. Never touch any electrical switches anywhere in your home and do not use a lighter or a match for any reason. Call your service company and have your gas fireplace insert inspected. If your service company is unavailable call your local fire department. They will let you know when it is safe to reenter your home.
6. Children require close supervision near a gas fireplace insert. The fireplace reaches very high temperatures and could cause a severe burn if touched. As with a traditional fireplace, clothing can ignite if it is too close to the heat source. Toys, books or other flammable materials should be kept at a distance from the fireplace and children should be encouraged to play at a safe distance. Common sense dictates that we warn children about appliances that generate high temperatures.
7. Never use your gas fireplace insert for cooking or for burning paper, wood, coal or other substances. This improper could cause harm to your fireplace as well as pose a risk to the user. Use only the gas indicated by the manufacturer in the owner's manual.
8. Do not attempt to change controls, remove parts or modify your gas fireplace insert. If any part of your fireplace has been submerged or exposed to water the parts exposed probably need to be replaced by a qualified service technician. Do not use your fireplace until this has been completed. Do not buy and use any accessory that is not sanctioned by the manufacturer of your specific fireplace.
9. Do not attempt to dry clothing or any other fabric by draping it over the appliance or placing it in close proximity to furniture or drapes that could be flammable. Additionally do not place decorations on top of or near the gas fireplace insert while it is operating. To do so creates a fire danger.
Although this may sound daunting, these are common sense strategies that allow you to enjoy your gas fireplace insert and insure the safety of your family at the same time. Seek the advice of a professional, qualified service technician for installation and routine service. Follow the manufacturer's operating guidelines and use common sense safety rules. You will be generating savings while you enjoy the warmth, ambiance and convenience of your new gas fireplace insert.
by: Joe Trefethen
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