How Often to Service Your Gas Fireplace for Safety and Peak Performance

There are many tried-and-true tips for maintaining wood-burning fireplaces, and the maintenance schedule is relatively rigid due to significant safety hazards. However, a gas fireplace might be even more challenging to maintain. Without the risk of soot backing up in the chimney, these fireplaces seem much easier to clean, yet they still require servicing to ensure there are no malfunctions that could cause mishaps. Here’s what experts have to say about annual care for gas fireplaces and how to keep them in good working order.

When asked how often a gas fireplace should be serviced, Chris Maxson, the owner of Acucraft Fireplaces, says, “The magic number is once a year. An annual service appointment is what it takes to keep your gas fireplace running as safe and efficiently as possible.”

Gas fireplaces may be cleaner than wood-burning units, but dust, grime, and residue still accumulate in burners, valves, vents, and other components. Maxson says a good technician checks that the flame is properly calibrated, the sensors are working, and carbon monoxide is not a concern. “Think of it as an annual check-up for your fireplace—preventive maintenance that takes 20-30 minutes but could pay off in spades.”

Depending on how often you use the fireplace, twice a year might also make good sense. If the gas fireplace is your primary heat source and you use it weekly for months on end, a check in early spring and another in late fall is a sound schedule.

Best Time of Year to Service a Gas Fireplace

While experts say sometime between spring and fall is ideal, the resounding answer is well before winter. Maxson recommends scheduling service early in the year, before cold snaps set in and catch you and your fireplace off guard.

Jon Gilbertsen, president and CEO of Chris Heating & Cooling, recommends waiting until the fall for several reasons. “Some people service their fireplaces right after the heating season ends, some wait until the next season, and both options are good; the worst you can do is never service it.” However, he says waiting until fall is a better option because users will have confidence that the system is clean, safe, and ready to use. “Plus, dust and insects can build up over summer,” he adds.

What a Gas Fireplace Service Entails

A quality service from certified technicians includes a leak test, an ignition and vent check, and flame calibration. They will also remove dust from burners, test safety controls, and ensure the glass is correctly positioned and the logs aren’t misaligned.

“A top-notch service will have your fireplace looking and running like new—efficient, no soot or dirt buildup, no weak flame, no signs of corrosion, and no safety concerns,” adds Maxson.

Gilbertsen adds that technicians will check for major issues to prevent problems, including gas leaks, complete failure, and carbon monoxide buildup. “In short, a technician makes sure your gas fireplace is safe and clean, removing dust and soot from the burner, cleaning fans and blowers, and lubricating bearings—but deep chimney cleaning is still a job for a chimney sweep, not the fireplace technician,” he says.

Cautions for DIY Servicing a Gas Fireplace

Just because it can be done doesn’t mean it should be—keep this in mind when considering DIY servicing of a gas fireplace. Completing simple maintenance tasks yourself saves money, but there is a high risk of errors.

“It’s fine to clean the glass and change batteries, but leave the gas connections and safety sensors alone. Gas lines are pressurized, and safety systems are sensitive,” explains Maxson. “A trained technician has the knowledge and tools to test, calibrate, and correct issues you can’t see. The peace of mind and money you save on preventive maintenance is a good investment compared to the alternative: bigger repairs or even safety risks later.”

Owners should remain vigilant about fireplace maintenance. Gilbertsen advises that if the gas fireplace was serviced before the heating season, DIY maintenance should include wiping the glass clean, making sure the gas valve is open, testing the pilot flame, and clearing the area around it. Vacuum around the burner and logs to remove dust or pet hair.

“Look over the fireplace and ensure vents aren’t blocked, the glass is clear, and nearby decor isn’t too close to heat vents. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detector, and if it’s been over a year since your last service, make an appointment before you fire it up," Maxson adds. He says those few extra minutes of care can ensure a safe and cozy winter.