How to Prepare Your Gas Fire for Winter

The nights are drawing in, there’s a chill in the air, and winter is nearly upon us here in the UK. For many households, a gas fire is the perfect way to keep warm and cosy during the colder months. However, gas fires require some care and maintenance after months unused over the warmer seasons. Properly preparing your gas fire reduces risk and ensures it will be in top working condition when you need it most this winter. 

In this blog post, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to getting your gas fire ready for winter. We’ll cover cleaning the firebox, inspecting the chimney, checking gas pipes and valves, cleaning oxygen sensors and thermocouples, and lighting the pilot light. These simple steps performed now will allow you to enjoy warming fires through the winter safely and efficiently. So, let’s prepare your gas fire for colder days ahead! 

Step 1: Clean the firebox

Keeping the firebox clean improves the efficiency of your gas fire and reduces the risk of dangerous debris build-ups. Periodically, use a dry, lint-free cloth to wipe down the firebox to remove dust and dirt accumulated over warmer months of disuse. Gently brush away any cobwebs, leaves, or other debris in the firebox. 

Remove the logs or coals from the gas fire insert or basket for deeper cleaning with a vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean the firebox, as residue can damage the gas fire components. Only use chemicals recommended explicitly by your manufacturer. 

Be sure to turn off the pilot light before any intensive cleaning. If you have used cleaning solutions, ensure the firebox is thoroughly dried to avoid damage or issues lighting the pilot. 

Step 2: Inspect the chimney

The chimney and flue must be clear of obstructions or blockages to allow proper ventilation for your gas fire. Built-up debris or nesting animals in the chimney can prevent dangerous gases from escaping through the flue. 

Ideally, you should have your chimney swept by a professional chimney sweep annually. They will thoroughly clean the chimney and flue using specialised brushes and tools. A chimney sweep will also check for any issues with the brickwork or chimney pot that may need repairing. 

You can also inspect the chimney yourself before winter. Use a torch to look up the chimney from the fireplace opening and check for any nests, leaves or debris. Use a mirror to look up the chimney if the bend is too sharp to see up. Install a chimney cap to prevent any animals or debris from getting into the chimney. Call a professional sweep to clean the chimney before lighting your gas fire if there are any signs of blockage. 

Step 3: Check gas pipes and valves

It is crucial to inspect the gas supply pipes and valves connected to your gas fireplace before relighting after a long period of disuse. Check all visible pipe sections for cracks, corrosion, or damage. If you notice any issues, call a Gas Safe registered engineer, and do not use your gas fire until it has been repaired. Don’t attempt to repair any damage yourself. 

Also, gently turn each valve through its full range of motion to ensure it operates smoothly without sticking. Remember to always turn valves off fully before relighting the pilot. Replace any damaged pipes or valves. Never attempt gas pipe repairs yourself; always call a Gas Safe registered engineer. 

Step 4: Clean oxygen sensors and thermocouple 

Gas fires have oxygen depletion sensors (ODS) and a thermocouple as essential safety features. The ODS shuts off the gas valve if inadequate oxygen levels are detected, while the thermocouple cuts the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. Both features should be gently cleaned before winter. 

Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust or debris from the oxygen sensor probes. The thermocouple can also be gently brushed and cleaned. Avoid touching these sensors with your fingers during cleaning. An electrical contact cleaner spray can be used for a more thorough cleaning. 

Be very gentle when cleaning the ODS and thermocouple. Do not drop, bump, or damage the sensors. Also, take note of any manufacturer guidelines for proper cleaning methods. If the sensors are damaged, or you cannot clean them, a Gas Safe engineer will need to replace them for safety. 

Step 5: Light the pilot light 

With the gas fire cleaned and inspected, it’s time to light the pilot light. Locate the pilot light assembly within the main burner—a small tube with a nozzle at the tip. Also, identify the gas control valve and igniter button. 

Ensure the gas control is turned off before beginning. To ignite the pilot light, press the igniter button while slowly turning the gas control knob to the pilot position. This will release gas to the pilot assembly while clicking the igniter to create a spark. 

Continue to hold in the control knob for 30–60 seconds once the pilot is lit, then release – the pilot should now remain burning. The pilot flame should burn steadily, not flutter, and be blue. If the pilot does not stay lit, call a gas engineer to determine if there is an issue with the thermocouple safety sensor or gas supply. 

If the pilot cannot be lit after several ignition attempts, do not keep trying – doing so may cause a dangerous gas build-up. Call a professional Gas Safe engineer instead. Always light your gas fire’s pilot following the specific manufacturer's instructions. 

Preparing your gas fire for winter takes effort, but properly cleaning and inspecting the components reduces risk and ensures your fire will operate smoothly all season long. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for appropriate maintenance and operation. Hiring a professional for chimney sweeps, servicing, repairs, or tricky pilot lighting will give you peace of mind that the job is done correctly. 

Following the steps outlined above to clean the firebox, inspect the chimney, check pipes and valves, clean sensors, and safely light, the pilot will get your gas fire into tip-top shape for cosy warmth on cold winter nights. So, don’t delay prepping your gas fire – stay warm and safe all winter! 

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Any questions? Our team is always here to help. You can call us on 0161 376 4181 or email [email protected].

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