As an electric fireplace does not burn wood, a homeowner may not think they require any maintenance. Although they don’t need much help to stay clean and functional, some maintenance can be important to keeping an electric fireplace attractive and operating safely. A good time of year to do this is in the spring after the cold seasons of fall and winter is through.
You should inspect your electric fireplaces at least once every year. As an electric fireplace does not have real flames and uses LED lights to provide the effect of a fireplace, there isn’t a lot of maintenance that needs to be done, but it’s still important to inspect it. Including it as a part of your spring cleaning routine around the house should make it easy. All in all, electric fireplace maintenance is a speedy process.
Unless an electric fireplace has broken down on you, there is no reason to call a serviceman to come and examine your model. That’s one of the tremendous benefits of having an electric fireplace over a gas-powered or wood-burning fireplace. They’re effortless to operate. High-end models can sometimes have an air filter that will need to be replaced or cleaned, but that’s all one needs to be aware of in servicing their fireplace. Before performing any fireplace maintenance, turn off the power supply. Ensure the fireplace is completely cool.
Here are some electric fireplace maintenance tips to keep in mind.
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Check the LEDs
An electric fireplace does not burn or emit fumes of any kind. The LED lights, however, can burn out. Before disconnecting the electric fireplace from its power source, verify that all the LEDs work. The average electric fireplace LEDs should last up to 10 years, but you may discover some burnout early.
Be Ready to Take Photos
If you are removing anything from your electric fireplace, before you do, take your smartphone and snap photos for reference. This way, when it comes time to reassemble what you’ve removed, you know what goes where and what it’s supposed to look like.
Wipe Down Your Fireplace Exterior
Use a soft, damp cloth with warm water and a dab of soap to wipe down the fireplace’s exterior. You don’t have to use a stronger cleaner than dish soap. It poses no risk to the internal components or aesthetics. Some people even opt to keep the cloth dry or to use a microfiber cloth. It won’t take much time or effort to wipe down any dust and debris on your electric fireplace.
Use Gas Cleaner for the Front
If the front pane of glass is particularly dusty and dirty, and when warm water and soap aren’t doing the trick, reach for the glass cleaner. If you prefer something all-natural, a half-half solution of warm water and vinegar in a spray bottle also works. Use it carefully and ensure it’s completely wiped off at the end of the job.
Dust the Fireplace Interior
Use a soft brush to go over the fireplace’s interior to eliminate dust or debris accumulated across your logs, stones, andirons, or hearth. Make sure the heating element, in particular, is properly dusted. For your metal andirons, you can give them an extra shine using a recommended metal polish.
Inspect the Motor and Fan Blades
Have a look at the blower motor and fan blades. Dust and debris can build up here, too. A quick tidy with a soft brush – or, if you prefer, a vacuum attachment – will eliminate most of it. Return to the soft cloth with warm water and dish soap if anything is not coming off. Afterward, wipe it all down and leave it dry.
Check Your Remote Control Batteries
While doing the electric fireplace maintenance checklist, check your remote control batteries in case they need to be replaced. For safety, ensure the remote is stored somewhere safe and accessible. If you have pets or children in your home, you don’t want them to accidentally turn on the fireplace, so choose the location of the remote wisely.
Fireplace Safety Hazards You Can’t Repair
Inspect your electric fireplace for damage you can’t fix. Frayed wires, a damaged power cord, or worn insulation are all components you may be unable to repair. If the fireplace was accidentally damaged and there’s an obvious hazard, cease using it. Contact an electric fireplace contractor if you’re considering repairing instead of buying a new model. They’ll be able to let you know whether a fireplace is worth it to repair.