How to Clean the Glass on Your Gas Fireplace

Did you know you that you should clean the glass of your gas fireplace at least twice a year? You will have an optimal performing gas fireplace by routinely cleaning the glass doors or window. This will ensure that your fireplace lasts for many years. You may notice a white-grey buildup or a film on the glass, but do not worry.

During the first 10 hours of operating a new gas fireplace, particulates will mix with the products of combustion and deposit on the glass as condensation when the fireplace cools. For an older fireplace, film may build up through the natural venting processes. It should only be necessary to clean the glass twice per year.

Minerals in the fuel, such as sulfur and calcium, can cause film to build up and deposit on the glass, or it can come from minerals in the outside air that are brought in through the venting system. Cleaning the glass will be based on how often you use your fireplace, and should be cleaned at the first sight of any type of buildup on the glass.
How to clean the glass of your Direct Vent Gas Fireplace

  1. Turn off the fireplace, including the pilot light, and open the glass front.
  2. Leave the glass front on its hinges if on hinges. If not, remove the glass to a soft surface like a drop cloth, towel, or your carpet.
  3. Use a cream fireplace glass cleaner. Pour about 2 tablespoons directly onto the glass.
  4. Using a soft cloth – preferably cotton- spread the cleaner. Leave the cleaner to sit on the glass until completely dry. This takes roughly 15 minutes.
  5. Buff the cleaner off using a soft clean cloth in circular motions.
  6. Clean the front of the glass in the same way, using strokes in the opposite direction than you used on the other side. This will help you figure out which side has streaks if the cleaner is not buffed off.

Beware! Before cleaning, make sure not to use an ammonia-based cleaner, do not use an abrasive cleaner and do not use a paper towel.

For any cleaning questions or concerns, contact us today. The professionals at Bowden’s Fireside can guide you on how to properly care for your gas fireplace.