How to Clean Fireplace Brick: Completing the Job

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some initial steps on how to clean the brick areas surrounding any fireplace in your home. These are important areas to clean, as they often accumulate debris or buildup and can be a big part of both functional and aesthetic needs – and some basic steps followed will allow you to do this quickly and easily. 

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to offer an extensive selection of custom fireplace options for clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, including both indoor and outdoor fireplaces – plus additional products like fireplace mantels and more. We left off in part one of our series with wetting your fireplace bricks to begin cleaning – today’s part two of our series will pick up from there. 

Mix Cleaning Solution

We already went over the selection of the ideal cleaning solution and materials in part one of our series, but now it’s time to put them to use. In a bucket, mix warm water with the cleaning solution of your choice – whether it’s a store-bought brick cleaner or a DIY solution like soap and vinegar. Follow any specific instructions for mixing ratios if using a store-bought product.

Scrub Away Stains

Now that you have your cleaning solution mixed, dip your stiff-bristled brush into the solution and begin scrubbing away at any stains on the brick surface. Use circular motions to work out tough spots or buildup – avoid using too much pressure, as this can damage the bricks.

Ideally, you’ll also have a spray bottle that allows you to spray additional solution on any tough areas that require extra attention. Continue this process until all visible stains have been removed from the brick surface.

Rinse with Water

Once you’ve scrubbed away all visible stains, rinse the bricks thoroughly with clean water. You can use a hose or bucket of water to do this – make sure all cleaning solution is washed off and there are no remaining suds. 

Spot Clean Stubborn Areas

If there are any stubborn stains or buildup that didn’t come off with the initial scrubbing and rinsing, you may need to spot clean them. Use a scrub brush with more concentrated cleaning solution on the specific areas until they are lifted.

Repeat As Necessary

Depending on the condition of your fireplace bricks, you may need to repeat this cleaning process multiple times to get them completely clean. If there are still stains or buildup after the first round, simply repeat the steps until you are satisfied with the result.

Dry Thoroughly

Once you’re finished scrubbing and rinsing, it’s important to let the bricks dry completely before using your fireplace again. Use a towel or cloth to wipe off any excess water and allow the bricks to air dry for at least 24 hours before lighting a fire.

And there you have it – a clean and beautiful fireplace brick area that will enhance the overall look of your home. Remember, regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your fireplace bricks looking great for years to come. 

For all your fireplace needs in Salt Lake City and surrounding areas, trust Comfort Solutions Fireplace. Our experienced team can help you select and install the perfect fireplace for your home, as well as provide ongoing maintenance and repairs. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services! 

There are a few areas of fireplace maintenance that many fireplace owners consider vital, and cleaning is among these. An important topic for those who want to keep their entire fireplace area clean on a regular basis: How to clean fireplace brick areas.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to not only offer a huge range of gas fireplace, outdoor fireplace and other fireplace options for clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, but also important services like fireplace repair and maintenance of any kind. We’ve helped many clients clean their fireplace brick areas, and we’re happy to provide expertise or even assistance here as needed. In this two-part blog series, we’ll go over everything you should know about this process, from choosing the right cleaning material to the proper steps and more.

Why Clean Fireplace Brick?

Before we get into the specifics of how to clean fireplace brick, let’s first discuss why this is an important task in the first place. There are several reasons to regularly clean your fireplace brick area:

• Aesthetics: Over time, soot and debris can build up on the bricks, leaving them looking dull and dirty. Cleaning the bricks will restore their original appearance and enhance the overall look of your fireplace.
• Safety: A buildup of creosote on the bricks can pose a fire hazard. Cleaning regularly removes this dangerous substance and reduces the risk of a chimney fire.
• Efficiency: The buildup of creosote also restricts air flow, affecting the efficiency of your fireplace. By cleaning the bricks, you’ll improve air flow and ensure your fireplace is working at its best.

Choosing the Right Cleaning Material

Before you begin cleaning, it’s important to choose the right material for the job. You should avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the bricks. Instead, opt for a gentle cleaner such as white vinegar or dish soap mixed with warm water. These cleaners are effective at removing soot and grime without causing any damage.

Our next several sections, and on into part two of our series, will go over some basic steps for cleaning your fireplace brick once you’ve selected the ideal material.

Cleaning Out Fireplace

While first ensuring that the fireplace is completely cold, begin by removing any excess debris from the fireplace. Use a shovel or brush to scoop out ashes and dust, and then use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining particles.

If your fireplace has glass doors, you can remove them and clean the inside with a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Be sure to dry the glass thoroughly before replacing it.

Wetting the Bricks

Before you begin cleaning the bricks, it’s important to wet them down with a spray bottle filled with water. This will help prevent the bricks from absorbing too much of the cleaning solution and potentially causing damage.

It will also loosen any dirt or grime that has hardened on the surface, making it easier to clean.

In part two of our series, we’ll continue discussing the steps for cleaning fireplace brick, as well as some additional tips and considerations. Remember, proper maintenance of your fireplace is crucial for both its appearance and functionality. Stay tuned for more helpful information from Comfort Solutions Fireplace, or contact us to learn about any of our fireplace products or services around SLC and other parts of Utah!

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on gas fireplaces and chimneys. Modern gas fireplaces don’t necessarily require a chimney setup to function, though they will require ventilation of some kind – having a basic understanding of your options here can be quite helpful if you’re thinking about any gas fireplace installation or upgrade. 

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to offer a wide range of modern gas fireplaces to clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, plus assistance with all related areas like these. Today’s part two of our series will look at how to consider existing chimneys when looking into a gas fireplace, plus some other tips on maintaining a gas fireplace chimney if your setup does utilize one. 

Using an Existing Chimney

In many cases, it will be easily possible to convert an existing masonry fireplace and its chimney into a gas fireplace setup. This is especially true if you’re using direct vent fireplaces, which can easily be installed in the same general area as an older wood-burning unit. 

In these cases, your installer will likely replace the damper with a sealed glass door that’s part of the new venting system – this door will generally remain closed except when you’re lighting or tending to the flames, keeping all emissions and air drafts out of your home. 

Re-Lining

In some cases where you’re using an existing chimney, it may be necessary for your installer to re-line the chimney with a new, smaller-diameter flue liner that’s designed specifically for gas fireplaces. This will help limit draft issues and reduce the risk of carbon monoxide buildup, plus keep your fireplace more efficient overall. 

Maintaining Gas Fireplace Chimneys

For those who do have a gas fireplace chimney in place, there are several basic maintenance areas to consider: 

• Annual Inspection: You should schedule an annual inspection for your gas fireplace chimney with a certified professional. This will help identify any potential issues before they become larger, costlier problems.

• Cleaning: Your chimney should be cleaned at least once a year to remove any built-up debris or blockages that could hinder proper ventilation and pose safety hazards.

• Carbon Monoxide Detection: As with any gas appliance, it’s important to have carbon monoxide detectors installed near your fireplace and throughout your home. These should be tested regularly to ensure they’re functioning properly. 

• Professional Repairs: If any issues are found during the inspection or cleaning process, be sure to enlist a professional for repairs rather than attempting them yourself – this is not only safer, but will prevent potential damage to your fireplace.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we pride ourselves on being a one-stop shop for all gas fireplace needs. From consultation on the right type of fireplace to installation, maintenance and accessories, we’re here to help. Contact us today for help with any of our gas fireplaces, outdoor fireplaces, or other custom fireplace needs around Utah!

There are a few common questions that come up from clients when installing a new fireplace, and some of these relate to a ventilation location for the fireplace’s output. One of the most common such questions: Does a gas fireplace need a chimney to operate? 

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to not only provide a wide range of gas fireplace, electric fireplace and outdoor fireplace services to clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, but also to answer questions like these and many others. In this two-part blog series, we’ll look at the basic answers to this question, plus what to be thinking about with regard to gas fireplace chimney or other ventilation options. 

Does a Gas Fireplace Need a Chimney?

From a broad standpoint, the answer for modern gas fireplaces is simple: No. These types of fireplaces do not require a traditional chimney like wood-burning fireplaces do. However, this doesn’t mean that there is no need for any sort of ventilation system at all. 

There are some kinds of gas fireplace (more on these in a moment) that do require some ventilation. But in these cases, the chimney typically won’t be your only option – there will also be a few other pathways you can take. For this reason, many homeowners today are seeing gas fireplaces as viable options even if they don’t have an existing chimney on their property.

And furthermore, there are gas fireplace options that require no ventilation as well. Let’s dig into these types in our next section.

Gas Fireplace Types

There are three main options for gas-powered fireplaces today, and their needs for ventilation will vary. They are as follows:

• Gas logs: The simplest type, which involves a simple set of gas logs placed in an existing wood-burning fireplace. Whether gas logs require ventilation depends completely on the type – some will require installation in a previously-approved fireplace space that contains a chimney, while others require no ventilation at all and are completely self-contained.

• Ventless fireplaces: As the name suggests, these do not require any external ventilation at all. They use a unique oxygen-depletion sensor (ODS) system that allows them to burn gas without producing harmful emissions – but note that they still produce water vapor and small amounts of carbon dioxide, so proper ventilation is always recommended.

• Direct vent fireplaces: These models use a sealed glass front along with two vents, one for air intake and one for exhaust. They do require venting to the outside, but this can be done through a sidewall or roof without the need for a traditional chimney. These are also often referred to simply as “vented gas fireplaces.”

In part two of our series, we’ll look at some other factors here, such as whether you can use an existing chimney space for these various gas fireplace types if you’re looking to go this route. For more on this, or to learn about any of our gas fireplaces or other fireplace options for clients around SLC and other parts of Utah, speak to our team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace today.

Heat is one of several themes that are naturally associated with fireplaces, but questions often arise from clients here when discussing alternative fuel sources for today’s modern fireplaces. In particular, there’s a common question often asked surrounding electric fireplaces: Do electric fireplaces give off heat? 

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re proud to offer a wide range of custom fireplace options for clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, including electric fireplaces, gas fireplaces, outdoor fireplace options and more. The answer to the above question is yes, electric fireplaces are often designed to produce heat – just in different ways than traditional models you might be familiar with. Here are some basics on how this works and what to consider if you require heat from your electric fireplace. 

Electric Fireplaces Create Heat – But Not Through Burning

When we think of fireplaces, we often think of wood-burning models that create heat as a byproduct of burning wood. Electric fireplaces don’t operate in the same way – instead, they use electricity to generate heat. This is typically done through a heating coil or fan system that blows out heated air into the room.

Due to this form of heating, it’s important to note that electric fireplaces often have different levels of heat output compared to traditional fireplaces. Some models may only give off a small amount of heat, while others can produce enough heat to warm an entire room – often a major benefit for homeowners. It’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing an electric fireplace for its heating capabilities.

Factors That Will Impact Electric Fireplace Heating

Because they produce heat in ways that are similar to a traditional furnace or heat pump, some of the same factors will impact the heating abilities of an electric fireplace. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Room size: Just as with any other heating appliance, the size of the room will be important when considering how much heat an electric fireplace can produce. Generally, smaller rooms will see a better result from these fireplaces than larger ones.

• Insulation: Insulation is critical for heat retention, and this applies to electric fireplaces as well. The more insulated a room is, the better it will retain heat from an electric fireplace.

• Placement: Just like with any other heating appliance, placement will make a big difference in how much warmth you receive from an electric fireplace. Be sure to consider placement carefully when installing your fireplace.

Are Non-Heating Models Available?

What about if you have no need for heat from your fireplace? In these cases, you can find electric models that don’t produce any heat at all. These are often used for decorative purposes or to create a cozy ambiance without adding additional warmth to the room. If you’re considering an electric fireplace but don’t require it to produce heat, be sure to inquire about non-heating options as well.

As you can see, electric fireplaces are a flexible and versatile option for any home. Whether you’re looking to add heat to your living space or simply want the ambiance of a fireplace without the added warmth, there’s an option that will work for you. Contact Comfort Solutions Fireplace today to learn more about our electric fireplace offerings and how they can enhance your home!

There are a few common questions that often get asked about fireplaces, and some of them surround the vital concept of safety for all home occupants. One of the most common questions for one of today’s most common fireplace types: Are gas fireplaces safe?

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to tell you that the answer here is an absolute yes – gas fireplaces are completely safe, and in fact often considered safer than wood-burning and other options. We offer a huge range of modern gas fireplaces for clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, plus comprehensive use and safety recommendations to ensure everyone in your home is always safe while using any of our products. Here are some basics on staying safe near or while using any gas fireplace.

Clearance Zones and Safety Screens

Like any fireplace that directly emits heat, gas fireplaces require a certain amount of clearance on all sides to ensure there’s no fire risk. The specifics here will depend on the exact model you’re using and other variables determined during installation – we’ll cover each of these on an individual basis for every client we work with.

In addition, safety screens are often used on gas fireplace fronts as an extra layer of protection. These screens prevent any debris or embers from escaping the fireplace and potentially causing harm to people or flammable objects on the other side.

Carbon Monoxide and Oxygen Levels

One common concern with gas fireplaces is whether they might emit dangerous levels of carbon monoxide (CO) into the home. However, this is not a major concern as long as proper maintenance is performed on the fireplace on a regular basis. Gas fireplaces should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year to ensure they are functioning safely and efficiently.

In addition, gas fireplaces do not require any additional oxygen to operate – they simply use the air in your home for combustion. This means there is no danger of depleting oxygen levels in your home while using them.

Regular Maintenance

Another simple but crucial aspect of gas fireplace safety is regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the interior and exterior on a regular basis, as well as having a professional inspect and service the fireplace on an annual basis. Any signs of wear or damage should be addressed immediately to prevent potential hazards.

Childproofing

For families with young children, it’s important to take extra precautions around gas fireplaces. Installing a safety gate or screen around the fireplace can prevent children from getting too close and potentially touching hot surfaces. It’s also important to teach children about the dangers of fire and how to safely interact with fireplaces.

Gas fireplaces are safe as long as they are properly installed, used, and maintained. With proper precautions and regular maintenance, you can enjoy the warmth and beauty of a gas fireplace without any safety concerns. At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we prioritize safety in all our products and services to provide our clients with complete peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about our gas fireplaces and how we can help keep your home safe and cozy.

As we enter the long Utah winter, starting up a fire is a great way to combine warmth and family time around the home. And for homes that operate a modern gas fireplace of any kind, knowing how to turn it on and get it started for a given season or session is one of the most basic needs.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a wide range of modern gas fireplaces to clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, plus assistance with all basic operations for your fireplace. Here are some basic steps for starting and lighting a gas fireplace using the two most common formats – a control panel versus a key.

Starting a Gas Fireplace With a Control Panel

Many of today’s latest gas fireplaces come with a control panel that allows you to easily turn them on and adjust the heat output. Here are the basic steps for turning it on:

1. Locate the control panel: Depending on your fireplace model, the control panel may be located at different places – some have it on the side of the fireplace, while others may have it hidden behind a door or cover. If you can’t find it, refer to the manufacturer’s manual.
2. Control knob: Find the knob that has settings for on, off and pilot. The knob may also have different settings for low, medium and high heat.
3. Turn on the gas: Before you turn the control knob, make sure to open the gas valve that leads to your fireplace. This is usually located near the fireplace wall or on a pipe leading up to it.
4. Choose your setting: Once you’ve turned on the gas, choose your desired setting on the control knob. If you’re just starting your fireplace for the first time this season, you’ll need to turn it to “Pilot” and then press down on the knob for about 30 seconds to allow air to escape. Then, move it to “On”.
5. Ignite the pilot light: Depending on your model, there may be a separate button to ignite the pilot light, or you may need to use a match. Once it’s lit, hold down the knob for an additional 30 seconds and then release.
6. Adjust heat and flame: Finally, you can adjust the temperature and flame height using the control knob according to your preferences.

Starting a Gas Fireplace With a Key

Some gas fireplaces use a key to turn them on and off instead of a control panel. Here’s how it works:

• Access the metal keyhole near the fireplace, usually on the floor in front of it or on the wall nearby.
• Insert the key into the keyhole until it locks into place.
• Ignite a long lighter and place it next to the keyhole.
• Turn the key counterclockwise to open the gas valve, allowing gas to flow into the fireplace.
• Once gas is flowing, you can rotate the key in the keyhole – this will adjust flame height.

As you can see, starting and lighting a gas fireplace is quite simple when you have the right tools and knowledge. If you’re in need of further assistance or looking to upgrade your current fireplace, Comfort Solutions Fireplace is here to help. Contact us today for all your gas fireplace needs!

While many people are most familiar with thermostat products for their use on home HVAC systems, this is not the only setting where a thermostat may be useful. Another great example: Gas fireplaces, where thermostat products are often utilized for several distinct benefits.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to offer a wide range of modern gas fireplaces and other fireplace options to clients around Salt Lake City and nearby parts of Utah. Here are some basics on what a thermostat does for a gas fireplace, plus some key benefits of installing one alongside your gas fireplace.

What a Thermostat Does for a Gas Fireplace

Firstly, what exactly is a thermostat? At its core, a thermostat is an electronic device that’s responsible for maintaining the temperature of your gas fireplace at one specific level. It does this by using temperature sensors to continuously read and assess several different important factors in the room, including humidity levels and other indicators that determine the ideal temperature.

When you set a certain temperature on your thermostat, it will continuously work to adjust the flames of your gas fireplace in order to reach and maintain that temperature. This means you don’t have to constantly monitor the flames and manually adjust them, allowing for a more convenient and hands-off experience.

Our next few sections will go over the benefits of a gas fireplace thermostat.

Full Temperature Control

By far the most significant benefit of installing a thermostat on your gas fireplace is that it allows for full temperature control. Instead of constantly adjusting the flames and worrying about keeping the room at a comfortable temperature, you can simply set your desired level and let the thermostat take care of the rest. This feature is especially useful during colder winter months, when maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature in your home is crucial.

Energy Efficiency

In addition to convenience, a gas fireplace thermostat also has the potential to save you significant amounts of money on your energy bill. By maintaining consistent temperatures and not wasting excess heat, thermostats can help reduce overall energy consumption and lower monthly costs. This is a great way to make your gas fireplace an even more cost-effective heating option.

Improved Safety

Lastly, installing a thermostat on your gas fireplace can also improve safety levels in your home. By regulating the temperature and ensuring that it stays at safe levels, you can rest assured that there won’t be any sudden or dangerous spikes in heat output from your fireplace. This is especially important if you have young children or pets in the home who may not understand the dangers of touching a hot fireplace.

In addition, thermostats can also come with additional safety features such as automatic shut-off if the temperature exceeds a certain level. This provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind for you and your family.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we highly recommend considering a thermostat for your gas fireplace for these and other benefits. Contact us today to learn more about our wide selection of modern gas fireplaces and accessories.

In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the basic areas that will be covered during a home inspection ahead of installing a new fireplace in your space. Site visits and inspections are common before installing a new fireplace, helping define the space and understand all its features – and knowing what to expect here can be helpful for many clients.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re here to offer an unmatched selection of traditional fireplaces, modern fireplaces and custom fireplace options for clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah. While part one of our series covered home size, room layout, ventilation needs and child/pet concerns, today’s part two will go over some other basic tips on the key areas covered during fireplace home inspection, plus what to think about as a client during this inspection.

Clearances

While we went over room layout in part one of our series, one specific area that’s sometimes glossed over within this topic is clearances. During a fireplace home inspection, our pros will take measurements and ensure there’s proper clearance on all sides of the potential installation area for safety purposes. This includes both horizontal and vertical clearances.

This is important because without the proper clearance, a fireplace runs the risk of overheating and causing damage to nearby walls, furniture or other items. It’s not just about finding the right size for your fireplace – it’s also crucial that there’s enough space around it for safe operation.

Electric or Gas Supply

Another key area that will be covered during a fireplace home inspection is the electric or gas supply for the potential installation area. For electric fireplaces, our experts will ensure that there’s an existing outlet nearby and that it can handle the extra usage from a fireplace. For gas fireplaces, proper venting and connection to a gas line will be checked.

It’s important for clients to keep in mind any special considerations they may have for their preferred fuel type – if you’re looking at a gas fireplace, for instance, knowing the location of your gas line and whether it’s feasible to connect to this point will be important.

Chimney or Venting Needs

For clients considering a traditional wood-burning fireplace, one key area that will be covered during the home inspection is chimney or venting needs. Our experts will inspect existing chimneys or determine if a new one needs to be installed, as well as check for any potential obstructions or issues with air flow.

If you’re considering a gas fireplace, proper venting and ventilation will also be a crucial area of focus during the inspection. Our team at Comfort Solutions Fireplace will ensure that the venting is set up properly and safely for your chosen fireplace.

As a client, it’s important to be aware of any potential limitations or challenges with your preferred fireplace option. During a home inspection, our experts will also discuss any additional features you may want to consider, such as mantels or hearths, and how they may affect the installation process.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we understand that every home and client has unique needs when it comes to fireplace installation. That’s why our team is dedicated to providing personalized solutions and top-quality service for all our clients. Contact us today to learn more about our services or schedule a fireplace home inspection with one of our experts!

There are several steps that may be involved in the process of having a new fireplace installed in your home, and one that’s often quite valuable for clients and installers alike is a home inspection. During a basic site visit, fireplace installation professionals will take a look at a number of basic features and proportions that may play a role in your installation – this is often a very important visit.

At Comfort Solutions Fireplace, we’re happy to offer a wide range of quality fireplace options to clients around Salt Lake City and other parts of Utah, including gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces and more. This two-part blog series will go over all the important areas that will be covered during a pre-installation fireplace home inspection, plus what to think about during it.

Home Size and Room Layout

One of the first things that will be considered during a home inspection is the size and layout of your space. Fireplaces can come in many sizes, so it’s important to properly measure the room or area where the fireplace is being installed – length, width, and height.

Not only this, but professionals will be looking for some other basics on your home itself. They may ask about the age of the home, what kind of walls or floors are surrounding the desired fireplace area, and if there’s enough room to securely install your chosen model. Be sure to provide accurate information – this is key for a safe and successful fireplace installation.

Ventilation Requirements

Another important area that will be inspected is your home’s ventilation system, including heat vents, air ducts and chimneys. Fireplaces require proper ventilation to ensure that combustion gases from the fire don’t enter your living space, so it’s important to have the right system in place before the installation begins.

If you don’t already have a chimney or other ventilation, this will need to be installed and checked for proper operation prior to your fireplace being put into use. Additionally, if you plan on using gas as your fuel source, safety mechanisms like carbon monoxide detectors will need to be looked at during the inspection.

Children or Pets Present

While this isn’t typically a primary factor in a pre-installation home inspection, it’s always important to consider the safety of any children or animals in your space. If you have anyone under the age of 18 living at home, fireplace guards and other safety measures may need to be discussed to ensure that everyone is kept safe while using the fireplace.

Ultimately, a home inspection is important to make sure that everything is up to code and safe prior to fireplace installation. In part two of this blog series, we’ll cover some other basic expectations for these appointments.

If you’re in need of a new fireplace for your home or business, feel free to reach out and contact Comfort Solutions Fireplace today! We offer quality installation services from experienced professionals who can help make sure that your project is done right.