How to Clean Fireplace Inserts

Regular cleaning will keep your fireplace insert functioning well

Fireplace inserts help conserve energy in the winter and heat your home more efficiently. To keep your fireplace insert functioning properly, it's important to clean it thoroughly at least once each winter, more often if you use it every day. Creosote can build up inside the insert and chimney, causing risk of house fires. Cleaning a fireplace insert is a dirty job, but you can save a lot of money by doing it yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Spade
• Wet/dry vacuum
• Stiff metal brush
• Rags
• Water
• Baking soda
• Window cleaner
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Remove all logs, grates, and ashes from the fireplace. Spread newspaper in front of the fireplace to keep your floor clean as you take everything out of the insert. Use a spade to scoop out any ash or debris from the fireplace. Once all the bigger objects are removed, use a wet/dry vacuum to get rid of any remaining dirt and dust. The crevice tool on the vacuum is very useful for getting into corners.

2. Scrub the insides of the fireplace with a wire brush to remove caked-on grit and creosote. A smaller wire brush can be used to get into the grooves on the inside of the door or in the hinges. Use the vacuum to clean up the debris left behind from scrubbing.

3. In a clean bucket, make a baking soda/water solution. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to 1 gallon of water. Use this solution to scrub the inside and outside of the fireplace insert. Pay special attention to any grates or vents as you wash it down. You will need to wring the rag out many times as you wash the fireplace insert. Use clear water to rinse the entire insert after you've washed with the baking soda solution.

4. Use window cleaner to wash the inside and outside of any glass features on the doors of the fireplace insert. If there is any built-up grime on the glass, you may need to use a brush to scrape it off before wiping the window clean with the glass cleaner.

5. Throw out the newspaper, and put the fire grate back inside the insert. Repeat this entire process at least once a year in the spring.

Tips & Warnings

• Wearing latex gloves will keep your hands clean.

• Wear old clothes while you clean the fireplace.

References

• Northline Express: How to Clean Your Fireplace
• Woodheat: Fireplace Inserts