The trusted Farmers Almanac predicts that the 2021 winter season in the state of Arizona will be a “polar coaster”. This means residents of this great state will be subjected to frigid temperatures well into March of 2022. Instead of waiting until these sub-zero temperatures move into your area to take action, now is the time to start preparing your home for winter. If you have a gas fireplace in your home, making sure it is in good working order should be a priority. 

Over the spring and summer months, gas fireplaces usually lie dormant. This long period of dormancy can result in problems with your gas fireplace. By inspecting and maintaining your gas fireplace before winter arrives, you can avoid being without this much-needed heat source. Here are some things you can do to get your gas fireplace ready for the winter months. 

Take a Look at Your Outdoor Vent

As previously mentioned, most gas fireplaces get little to no use during the warmer months of the year. During this time, the fireplace vent can become clogged. Before you fire up your gas fireplace, you need to take the time to inspect your outdoor vent to ensure no dirt or leaves are covering it. Ignoring the need for the cleaning of this vent can result in increased carbon monoxide levels and even a fire. 

During this inspection, you need to pay attention to any warning signs that pests have taken up residence in the vent. If you notice nests or see actual pests in the vent, you need to contact a pest control specialist to assist you. With their assistance, you can safely and effectively remove these pests before using your gas fireplace. 

Dust Your Blower

The warmth produced by your gas logs has to be circulated with the help of an electric blower. As time goes by, the blower in your gas fireplace will get covered in dust. If this dust is allowed to linger, it can affect how the blower functions. The presence of high levels of dust can also lead to these allergens getting blown into your indoor air supply, which is bad for allergy sufferers or people who are prone to respiratory ailments. 

Removing the dust on your blow with a soft bristle brush is a good idea. Unplugging and removing the blower to extensively clean it is your best course of action. Once you have brushed and vacuumed up all of the dust, you can reattach the blower. 

Visually Inspect Your Pilot Light 

Your gas logs need both a steady supply of gas and a functional pilot light to work properly. Taking the time to visually inspect your pilot light is a must. During this inspection, look for things like exposed or loose wires. If you notice these problems, contacting professionals to assess the damage and fix your damaged pilot light mechanism is vital. 

By using the tips in this article, you can get your gas fireplace ready for the long winter ahead.

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