Can you use a rusty fireplace?

That fireplace is unsafe. You can see the “box” is rusted through the back wall near the base. This will allow smoke to escape from the “box” rather than go up the flue. That smoke will circulate into the living space.

Can gas fireplaces cause carbon monoxide poisoning?





Yes, gas fireplaces are one potential cause of carbon monoxide poisoning. While there are many potential sources of such exposure, including certain appliances and devices, motor vehicles and wood stoves, gas fireplaces are a common culprit.

Why would a fireplace rust?

The combination of the fireplace’s metal parts and the moisture trapped in the fireplace can cause rust to form. This corrosion can develop into a major problem if left untreated. The best way to repair corrosion damage is to replace the damaged pieces.

How does a fireplace explode?

Though very rare, gas fireplaces are susceptible to explosions and sudden fires. If the pilot light isn’t sitting properly when the gas begins to flow, gas may build up and explode. Regular checks of the pilot light are important to keep this from happening.

How do you remove rust from a gas fireplace?

Mix equal parts of water and baking soda in a bowl until it becomes a paste. Spread the paste onto the rusted areas of the insert and let it sit for about five minutes. Scrub off the paste with steel wool, which should remove the rust along with the paste.

What will happen if you heat rust?





If the rust is simply melted, it will re-form once the metal cools. That’s why the recycling process also includes purification, where elements like carbon can be added to bond with the oxygen and free the iron. This also removes other impurities like ink or dried paint.

How do I know if my gas fireplace is leaking carbon monoxide?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Turn on the gas supply to your fireplace. And carefully lighted let it burn for five minutes to allow any dust particles or other contaminants to burn off then smell and look any unusual odors could

Can gas fireplaces explode?

Although convenient, these home gas fireplaces pose significant risk of explosions and house fires if they are improperly installed or maintained. Gas Fireplace leaks can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, but can also result in explosions that can level an entire neighborhood block.

How do I know if my fireplace is leaking gas?

Your home methane detectors sound. Your carbon monoxide detectors sound. A stench of “rotten eggs” or a “gas odor” permeates the home. You can hear a hissing sound near your fireplace.

How do I know if my gas fireplace is safe?



A properly operating gas fireplace will have a safe and secure glass enclosure, will ignite without delay, have a clean blueish color flame and will vent properly out through a termination cap that is clear from debris or obstruction.

How often should gas fireplaces be cleaned?

Even though gas fireplaces do not burn wood or make smoke, cleaning a gas fireplace monthly is essential, even when it is not being used. Regular cleaning will prevent dust and dirt from harming mechanisms and allow you to inspect the system for damage.

Can a gas fireplace cause a house fire?

Yes, fireplaces are capable of starting a house fire! Many people don’t realize the possible dangers fireplaces pose. These dangers can be caused by such things as lack of maintenance or incorrect installation.

Do gas fireplaces need to be cleaned?



While gas fireplaces don’t produce creosote, they do still need annual cleaning. Both propane and natural gas are clean burning gas fuels, so they don’t produce the same byproducts as wood, but they can still produce buildup that needs to be cleaned away.

How do I restore a rusty fireplace?

Clean away any rust on the surface. Strip away old layers of paint. Repair any cracks by professional welding. Re-paint or polish as desired.



How to clean a rusty cast iron fireplace

  1. Protective gloves and mask.
  2. White vinegar or rust remover.
  3. Medium grit sanding paper.
  4. Steel wool.


Can you paint the inside of a gas fireplace?

The Gas Fireplace



You can use a heat-resistant paint formulated for use on metal surfaces. Alternately, gas appliance touch-up paint has the proper formula for this application and is available at retailers selling gas fireplaces and inserts.

What kind of paint do you use on a gas fireplace?



Choose an indoor latex paint for the surround: you want a flat, semi-gloss, or gloss paint that is rated to withstand high temperatures generated by a fireplace (around 250° C / 480° F). Painting a wood frame or mantel with this type of paint is always a good idea.

Do I need heat resistant paint for gas fireplace?

A common misconception about painting fireplaces is that you need to get ‘heat-resistant’ paint. If you are only painting the outside of your fireplace, your paint just needs to be approved to withstand temperatures of 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and most general interior paint is!

Is it safe to paint the inside of a fireplace?

You can pick up heat resistant paint online or at your local Home Depot. You can use paint like this on all sorts of surfaces: painting the interior of your fireplace, painting wood burning stoves, etc.

How hot does a gas fireplace get?

A gas-burning fireplace tends to burn at a lower temperature, around 1000 degrees. Gas-burning is more efficient, so the grates and walls of the firebox can reach 1000 degrees as well.

Do I need special paint to paint a fireplace?



Choose fireplace paint—indoor, latex, heat-resistant paint (either flat, semigloss, or gloss) that’s rated to withstand temperatures generated by the fireplace (generally about 200°F). Remember that this type of paint is only appropriate for the exterior of a brick fireplace, not the interior firebox.