I see that you’ve finally taken my advice and purchased your very own electric fireplace. Good for you! Now you might be wondering how to properly maintain and clean this wonderful invention.
Well, you’ve landed on the right article. Here, we will go through common and effective practices for maintaining and taking proper care of your electric fireplace, so it can serve you for many years.
1) Dust, Dust, and More Dust: The Never-Ending Battle
Let’s start with the obvious one – cleaning dust. This is nothing new or special, but it’s one of the most neglected practices – which is a shame, because not only does wiping dust increases the overall “health” of your devices, but it also keeps them in top shiny shape.
- Regular Dusting: Grab your trusty duster or a soft cloth, and give your fireplace a gentle once-over at least once a week. It’s not a glamorous job, but someone’s got to do it.
- Deep Cleaning: About once a month, unplug your fireplace and remove the glass front (if possible). Get in there with a vacuum cleaner or a soft brush to remove any stubborn dust or debris. It’s like a spa day for your fireplace!
2) Glass Cleaning: Because Streaks Aren’t Chic
Your electric fireplace’s glass front may not accumulate soot like a traditional fireplace, but it can still get smudged or streaky, and honestly, that can easily destroy the overall “firepit-like” feeling.
Come on now, I can’t be the only one who gets annoyed by glass smudges…
Here’s how to keep it looking its best:
- Glass Cleaner: Use a high-quality glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to clean the glass. Spray the cleaner on the cloth, not directly on the glass, to avoid seepage into the fireplace’s inner workings. You wouldn’t want to give your fireplace a shower, now would you?
- Buffing: Once you’ve removed any smudges or streaks, give the glass a good buffing with a clean, dry cloth. This will keep your glass looking as clear as the day you bought it.
This may sound like a lot of work, especially when you have a huge electric fireplace, but trust me, a few minutes of your time will result in a smile on your face whenever you look at your shiny new-like heater.
If you have a compact electric fireplace, this task takes just a few seconds. Easy, right?
3) Keep an Eye on the Bulbs: They Won’t Last Forever
You may not now, but electric fireplaces rely on light bulbs to create their cozy ambiance, and like all light bulbs, they won’t last forever. So, if your fireplace starts looking a little dim, it’s time to change those bulbs:
- Check the Manual: Before you start unscrewing anything, check your fireplace’s user manual for instructions on how to change the bulbs. Trust us; you don’t want to wing it and end up with a mess on your hands.
- Choose the Right Bulbs: Make sure to replace the bulbs with the recommended type and wattage specified in the manual. Otherwise, you might end up with a disappointing light show.
4) Inspect the Cord: Because Safety First
Your electric fireplace’s power cord is its lifeline, so it’s essential to check it regularly for any signs of damage:
- Visual Inspection: Every few months, give the cord a once-over to look for any fraying, cuts, or other damage. If you spot any issues, it’s time to replace the cord or consult a professional.
- Keep It Tidy: Avoid using extension cords or overloading outlets with your electric fireplace. And please, for the love of safety, don’t run the cord under carpets or rugs.
Note: If you notice your electric fireplace cord is acting strangely (does not work on the first try) or is damaged, DO NOT attempt to connect it again. Rather disconnect it all together and contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
In Conclusion
There you have it, a few simple tips and tricks on how to maintain and properly clean your electric fireplace. Trust me, these are relatively easy steps and if done properly, your modern firepit will last for years. Not to mention it will be quite thankful.
Peace out.