A professional gas engineer’s guide to safe, efficient, and long-lasting performance.
🔧 1. Annual Servicing (Non-Negotiable)
- Have your gas fire serviced once a year by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
This ensures:
- Correct burner pressure and flame picture.
- Flue is drawing properly.
- Safety devices (ODS, thermocouple, etc.) are working.
- No leaks, blockages, or dangerous build-up of carbon deposits.
- Always ask for a service report and make sure your engineer leaves the fire safe for continued use.
🧼 2. Regular Cleaning (Monthly or as Needed)
- Turn off the gas supply and allow the fire to cool completely before cleaning.
- Gently clean:
- Ceramic coals or pebbles with a soft brush (never wash them).
- Glass fronts with a soft, lint-free cloth and mild glass cleaner — avoid spraying near seals.
- Casing and vents using a vacuum to remove dust and debris.
- Do not rearrange the coals unless following the manufacturer’s layout — incorrect placement can lead to incomplete combustion and soot.
⚠️ 3. Safety Checks Between Services
Keep an eye on the following warning signs:
| Symptom | Possible Issue | What to Do |
| Yellow, lazy, or flickering flame | Poor air supply or blocked flue | Turn off and call a Gas Safe engineer |
| Black soot marks | Incomplete combustion | Stop using and get checked immediately |
| Pilot light keeps going out | Faulty thermocouple or dirty pilot | Service required |
| Strange smells or condensation | Combustion or flue issue | Ventilate room, switch off fire |
| Unusual noises | Loose parts or low pressure | Engineer inspection needed |
4. Ventilation & Carbon Monoxide Safety
- Never block vents or grilles — these are vital for safe combustion.
- Install a Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm in the same room:
- Mount 1–3 metres from the fire, ideally at head height.
- Test monthly and replace batteries yearly (or as instructed).
🔥 5. Usage Tips for Longevity
- Use low or medium flame settings for longer operation — reduces wear and gas consumption.
- Avoid frequent short on/off cycles.
- In warmer months, light the pilot for a few minutes monthly to keep components free of dust and corrosion.
🧾 6. Flue & Chimney Care
- If you have a conventional flue, have the chimney swept annually.
- For balanced flue or flueless fires, make sure external terminals or vents stay clean and unobstructed.
🧯 7. When to Replace or Upgrade
Consider upgrading if:
- The fire is over 15 years old.
- It lacks modern safety features (flame supervision device, ODS).
- It’s inefficient or difficult to service — modern fires can reach up to 89% efficiency and offer better safety.
| Task | Frequency | Who |
| Full service | Annually | Gas Safe engineer |
| Chimney sweep | Annually (if open flue) | Professional sweep |
| Clean coals, casing, glass | Monthly | Homeowner |
| Check CO alarm | Monthly | Homeowner |
| Visual flame/soot check | Ongoing | Homeowner |
Please call Gas Care Plus for professional guidance on Tel: 07704141410
