Tech Talk: Winterizing Fire Appliances

Winter is coming… and now is the time to prepare. HPC has your back. This is HPC’s annual PSA of how to properly winterize your fire appliances. Completing just a few steps will extend the longevity of your appliance ensuring your enjoyment for years to come.

Step By Step Winterization Process For All Ignition Styles:

Start by clearing debris such as sticks or twigs from the media and burner of the fire feature. It is not necessary to remove the media, but if you notice soot build up it is a great time to remove the media and cleanse it with soapy water. Once cleansed you can apply media back into the pan or store it for the winter months. Next, turn off the gas supply to your unit. When winterizing an Electronic Ignition, it is important to turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the fire feature. It is best to store all remote controls indoors. HPC strongly recommends utilizing a cover to protect outdoor appliances from moisture and harsh winter elements such as snow and ice.

Snow and ice can cause damage when allowed to settle on the appliance over an extended time. In addition to the metal covers, HPC recommends utilizing our signature vinyl covers.

Winterizing And Storing:

Some individuals elect to store their appliance during the winter months. HPC’s inserts can be removed and stored in a dry place. Prior to storing the unit, there are several preparation steps that need to be taken. Start by turning off the gas supply to your unit. Next, unplug or disconnect electronic ignitions from its’ circuit power source. Then remove media from the pan. Once the media is removed, you can raise the pan to disconnect the flex line connector from the gas supply. Lastly, carefully lift the unit out of the enclosure and store for the winter months.

Nuances of Winterizing A Fire And Water Feature:

To begin winterizing your combination water fire feature, start by turning off the water, electric and gas sources for the appliance. Next open the drain allowing the water to empty into your local drain. Locate the union connection, then unscrew the connection to the drain. Doing so will release several gallons of water onto the ground. By draining the union it also allows the water to drain from the pump which protects the fittings from freezing and cracking. Next, remove the filter located inside of the basin and clean with running water. Then, remove the liner as well as the filter to dry. In addition, utilize a towel to dry the tank and gussets. Conduct a final check ensuring that all water is removed from the basin, bowl, pump and waterlines. On HPC’s fire and water features the lights, water and fire components are operated separately. While the water needs to be drained for the winter months you can still enjoy the fire and lights. If you choose to do so, once the water is drained you can then reapply power to make the fire and lights operational. Lastly, we recommend covering your unit while not in use, as this will extend the life of your appliance. Need a fitted cover? Purchase an HPC Fire vinyl cover to protect your appliance from the harsh winter elements.

Maintenance Schedule For Appliances Located In Warmer Winter Climates:

It is important to check your fire appliance regularly for debris. Be sure to keep the burner, media, drains and vents free from leaves sticks, twigs or other flammable materials. In addition, the more you burn your unit the better. Completing regular checks will keep your appliance running optimally. If you have no plans of using the fire feature for extended period of time, even in a mild winter climate, be sure to burn the unit at least once or twice a month and keep the unit covered while it is not in use.

Customer Service:

Following these simple steps to winterize your appliance will extend the life of your appliance. HPC stands by our units with our life time guarantee, promising it will light every time rain or shine.

Let our dedicated Certified National Fire Institute Tech team as well as our Customer Specialists field any questions or concerns. Reach our HPC Fire Inspired team at  937-436-9800 or at Information@HPCFire.com.