Winter has arrived and it’s time to talk about winter maintenance for your HPC fire feature. Winter maintenance for gas-burning fire features is important to ensure proper functioning, safety, and done properly will enhance the longevity of use. In this Tech Talk, we will discuss some simple tips to help maintain gas fire features during the Winter months.
Turn Off Gas Supply
Safety is imperative. Prior to servicing your unit it is imperative to shut off the gas supply as well as an power sources. Before performing any maintenance or service on your HPC Fire feature TURN OFF the gas supply to the fire pit. The gas supply can be turned off at the shutoff valve located on the gas line. Some gas fire designs have a key valve that triggers shut off. In addition, for Electronic Ignition models it is imperative to turn off the power source prior to servicing them. It is best to turn the power supply off via the installed wall switch or circuit breaker.
Clean the Burner and Fire Pit Components
Remove any debris, leaves, twigs or any other flammable materials that may have accumulated in and around the burner, pan and fire pit. Operating the unit with debris can lead to potential damage of crucial pilot components. Clean the components utilizing a soft brush or wire, ensuring that the burner ports are free of obstructions. This is also a great time to clean the media. Simply remove the media and clean gently with soapy water allowing the media to dry prior to replacing it in the pan. Committing to a maintenance schedule will ensure a brilliant flame height, natural pattern and extend the longevity of your design.
Inspect and Clean the Ignition System
If you Have an HPC electronic ignition or a HPC push button flame sensing unit, it is important to inspect the ignition system and its’components. Start by removing the lid of the blow out box. Then check and remove any debris. Debris trapped in the blow out box can clog the pilot orifice and prevent gas flow to the pilot hood. Clean the ignition system removing any dirt, spider webs, or debris that may have accumulated. An effective way to remove debris is utilizing compressed air. Next, inspect the thermocouple for damage or carbon build up. A damaged or dirty thermocouple can negatively impact the flame sensing technology of the ignition system and cause potential drop outs. The thermocouple can be cleaned with a soft brush or a clean cloth. If there is damage to the component, a new thermocouple can easily be ordered. Inspect the igniter for any damage, cracks or wire damage to the igniter. Once all the components are confirmed to be in good condition, the blow out box lid can be replaced. Lastly, the media can be placed back into the pan. Be sure to keep the lid and upper perforations of the blow out box free from media.
Gas Connections
Visually inspect the gas connections of your fire feature for any signs of wear and tear or damage. Ensure that all connections are tight and secure. If you detect any issues or have a concern with any gas connections HPC highly recommends consulting a gas professional to address them. HPC advocates for safety and advises that it is best to leave repairs of gas line connections or any leads to licensed professionals.
Inspect Ventilation and Drainage
Ventilation and drainage are very crucial components to your HPC Fire Inspired fire feature. Be sure that all the ventilation openings are free of leaves and debris. Check that there is proper air flow to the enclosure. Keeping your drains free from debris is vital especially during winter. Built up ice and debris can prevent water from egressing from the enclosure thus causing the to be flooded.
Store Removable Components
Remove and properly store any removable components; such as remote-control transmitters, wind guards or decorative elements . Storing these components indoors during the winter months protect them from harsh outdoor elements. When the unit is not in use it is best to utilize a cover as an added layer of protection for your investment.
Protective Cover
Covering your HPC fire feature is the single most important maintenance that the owner can do to protect and extend the lifetime of you fire feature. Whether it’s a vinyl cover or some kind of hard cover, keep the cover on it during long periods of nonuse. This is critical especially during the winter months to shield the unit from snow, ice, and other harsh weather conditions. This helps prevent corrosion and extends the life of the fire pit.
Warmer Climate Users
For those locations who don’t experience harsh winter weather, it remains just as important to do regular maintenance checks. It is important to burn your unit as often as you are able. Running your appliance regularly allows any moisture to be burned away keeping your unit in tip top shape.
Professional Inspection
Consider scheduling an annual professional inspection. A qualified technician can perform a comprehensive examination of the gas components, connections, and overall functionality of the fire pit. If you have any questions regarding winter maintenance for your HPC gas fire feature, you can find our installation/maintenance instructions on our website at hpcfire.com or contact our HPC NFI certified technicians.
Proper winter maintenance is crucial to the performance and longevity of gas-burning fire pits. By following this detailed guide, you can ensure that your HPC Fire Inspired fire pit remains in excellent condition, providing warmth and enjoyment for years to come. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines and consult with professionals if you encounter any issues or uncertainties during the maintenance process.
If you have any questions or concerns, please give us a call at
937-436-9800. Let our NFI certified technicians provide guidance around all your fire design needs.
Looking to learn more about HPC’s Offerings? Schedule an online or in person training with Chuck Parsons, HPC’s training and education manager.
