Hello again! MS Propane here, back with some tips on how to safely use your propane fireplace, whether you like it for warmth, ambiance, or both! It’s the cozy part of the home where fond memories of Christmases, card games, and reading books happen.
We’re not experts on the appliance itself, but we do know about the propane that keeps your family warm and cozy.
1. Read the User Manual
Before you do anything else with your new propane fireplace, read the owner’s manual. If you just bought a house and the previous owners didn’t leave the manual behind, look at your product’s label to get the make and model of it and research the user’s manual online. You can also contact the manufacturer.
Pay particular attention to the control panel’s functionality, how to access and monitor the propane supply, and the process for flame adjustment. Learn how to turn it on and off, adjust any timers or thermostat settings, and what to do if you smell propane.
2. Perform Regular Maintenance Checks
We strongly recommend having a qualified technician perform an annual inspection, focusing on the integrity of gas lines, valves, vents, and connections of your propane fireplace. Our staff can’t do that, but there are experts who can. While it’s having an annual inspection, have the technician clean the burner and control compartments to optimize the unit’s efficiency.
Every week, look at the pilot light to make sure it’s strong. Some modern propane fireplaces won’t have a visible pilot light, so you won’t need to do this step. Keep the area around the propane fireplace free from dust, dirt, and debris.
3. Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector
Burning anything in your home, even propane, can create carbon monoxide, a hazardous gas that is invisible and odorless. Install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home, particularly in close proximity to bedrooms, in case there is CO buildup. Test these detectors once a month, and follow the directions on the package!
4. Ventilate Properly
Keep the vent chimney free from any blockages to ensure it functions efficiently. If you have a vent-free model, keep air circulating with a window open a crack or have a ceiling fan on low. Air circulation can help prevent carbon monoxide buildup in your home.
5. Light the Burner Properly
Manual propane fireplaces may require a long-stemmed lighter or long match to light the burner. Electronic ignition switches generally need this three-step process:
- Turn the knob to the pilot setting.
- Hit the ignition switch.
- Adjust the flame height after it ignites.
Most certainly DO NOT use flammable liquids to help ignite the burner. This isn’t a charcoal grill.
6. Operating Your Propane Fireplace
Some brief safety tips:
- As with all propane appliances, don’t leave your propane fireplace unattended in the presence of children or pets.
- Utilize a protective screen to guard against accidental burns from hot surfaces.
- Keep combustible items, like paper, cloth, wood, or rugs, at least three feet away from the heat source.
- Never use your propane fireplace for cooking or drying clothing. Keep your weenie roasts for the barbecue or bonfire outside!
7. Recognizing and Responding to Gas Leaks
Should you ever catch a whiff of rotten eggs, immediately cease any attempts to ignite your fireplace or activate electrical devices. Get everyone out of your house and to a secure location. Contact your propane supplier’s emergency number and report a gas leak.
If you have any questions about your propane supply, feel free to contact us!
