Maintaining Natural Gas Appliances

As energy experts, we’re frequently asked about what types of home appliances use natural gas, why it makes sense to use them, if they’re safe and how often a natural gas appliance should be checked and maintained. In this week’s blog, we’ll go over all of that and more.

Why use natural gas appliances?

Natural gas appliances in the U.S. remain popular for several reasons. For one, they tend to save homeowners money in the long run compared to their electric counterparts, as they consume less energy to do the same amount of work. On top of that, natural gas in most areas of the U.S. costs less than electricity. So even though electric appliances can cost less to purchase up front, the bigger savings over time is often realized with natural gas appliances.

The efficiency of natural gas also translates into environmental benefits. Compared to coal or oil, less has to be burned to create energy, whether it’s used directly at home or at a power plant. This efficiency is why natural gas is now the No. 1 source of fuel for electricity generation in the U.S. And using natural gas directly at home with your appliances is even more efficient, meaning you’re doing more to help curb greenhouse gas emissions.

Cooking is another consideration when we talk about the popularity of natural gas. Natural gas stoves, ovens and grills produce instant heat and allow for more control when it comes to precise temperatures.

Are natural gas appliances safe?

Absolutely! Modern natural gas appliances are built with several safety features, such as automatic shut-off valves, flame failure devices and carbon monoxide detectors—all designed to meet strict safety standards. On top of that, a foul-smelling additive called mercaptan is added to natural gas to make it easy to detect in case there’s ever a leak—it smells like rotten eggs. See more on this topic in our blog on 7 Common Natural Gas Mistakes.

How should I maintain my natural gas appliances?

Although there are many types of natural gas appliances, proper maintenance of each is important for safety, efficiency, longevity, performance and environmental impact. Below, we’ve listed the most common types of natural gas appliances, along with tips on how often they should be checked and maintained.

Ovens/Cooktops/Ranges

Unlike some natural gas appliances, ovens, cooktops and ranges are used frequently enough to warrant more regular care.

Daily and weekly wipe downs with a mild cleaner and soft cloth are a must to keep things hygienic, but you’ll also want to inspect and clean burner ports on your cooktop to make sure they’re clear of debris. For the best results, you can carefully remove burner caps and grates once a week and then soak them for a few minutes in warm, soapy water. Stubborn grease and stains can be addressed with a non-abrasive brush or sponge. Be sure to thoroughly rinse and dry each piece before reassembling.

Monthly, you’ll want to check gas hoses for any leaks, cracks or brittleness—damaged hoses should be replaced immediately by a professional. Be sure to check that fittings and connections are secured as well, and don’t forget to make sure each burner is lighting properly. If they’re slow to ignite or burn unevenly, the problem needs to be addressed.

Yearly, it’s a good idea to have a licensed professional come out and inspect your oven and cooktop. Along with calibrating your flame settings to maximize efficiency (and save on your bill), they’ll be able to perform tests that can catch other problems.

Grills

Typically, natural gas grills won’t need to be maintained as heavily as indoor ovens and cooktops, unless they’re used daily or weekly. But it’s still a good idea to perform regular maintenance at least twice a year, even when use is only occasional. For more on taking care of your natural gas grill, take a look at our informative blog about Outdoor Gas Grill Cleaning and Safety Tips.

Dryers

With natural gas dryers (or any type of dryer), take a moment after each use to clean the lint trap. This will help your dryer do its job more effectively and prevent potential fire hazards from lint build-up.

Monthly, it’s smart to check you natural gas dryer’s vent hose for any kinks or blockages, and make sure it’s securely connected. Additionally, you’ll want to wipe the inside of the drum once a month to remove any lint build-up.

Twice yearly, soak your lint trap filter in warm, soapy water to help remove residue from detergents, dryer sheets and fabric softeners—try using a vacuum hose to suck out the lint trap housing. And inspect your vent hose to make sure it’s free of lint and other debris, as well—this helps with air flow and prevents overheating.

Yearly, consider scheduling a certified technician to inspect your dryer for leaks or any malfunctioning components.

If you’re looking for more information on the advantages of natural gas dryers, check out our blog: Natural Gas Dryer Vs. Electric Dry: Which is better?

Water Heaters

The temperature setting is the first thing you’ll want to check with any water heater. Experts recommend setting them at 120 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent overheating your water and to help save energy. Once set, you should be good to go, though it wouldn’t hurt to take a look at your temperature setting once a month to make sure it’s where you want it. While you’re doing this, look for signs that you tank might be leaking at the base or around connections.

Yearly, it pays to check your natural gas water heater’s pressure relief valve and perform a tank flush—especially if your water heater is a few years old. You can hire a professional plumber to help with this or try it yourself. If the latter, be sure to shut the supply of gas off to your water heater before starting.

The pressure relief valve is usually located on the top or side of your tank, connected to a drainage pipe. To test, you’ll need to disconnect the drainage pipe with a wrench—be sure to place a bowl or bucket beneath to catch water. Then, lift the lever on the valve just enough to allow a slow flow of water to escape. If air and steam are released, you’re good to reconnect your drainage pipe—it’s working as it should. If not, contact a licensed plumber to replace the valve.

To perform a tank flush, you’ll want to make sure your unit’s gas and cold water are both switched off. The cold-water supply valve is typically on the top of the tank. After both are off, attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank and run the length of the hose outside or to a floor drain. Next, turn on a hot water faucet somewhere in your home—this will allow air to enter your system and help drain your tank faster. Then, open the drain valve near the bottom of your tank—this might require the use of a flathead screwdriver, depending on your model of water heater. The water should take between 30 and 40 minutes to drain. Once empty, open your cold water supply valve for a few seconds to help stir up tank sediment. Close the valve and allow to drain, repeating until the tank water drains out clear. Finish by closing the tank’s drain, filling it back up with cold water and turning your tanks gas back on and then relighting your pilot light.

Every several years, it’s good to check your anode rod too. Like performing a tank flush, this involves turning your gas and cold water supply off and using a garden hose to drain some of the water—this reduces pressure in the tank. The anode rod is typically on the top of the tank under a plastic cap—consult your owner’s manual for exact location. Then, use a socket wrench to unscrew the anode rod and lift it from the tank. If it appears to be heavily corroded or less than an inch thick, it’s time for a replacement. Be sure to use a little Teflon tape around the threads of any new anode rod you’re reinstalling. Once that’s complete, close the drain, remove the garden hose, refill the tank, switch your gas supply back on and light your pilot light.

Don’t hesitate to call a professional in if you have any doubts about performing these checkups.

Furnaces

With your natural gas furnace, start with a monthly check of your thermostat, making sure it’s set to your desired temperature and functioning properly. If that’s working as it should, move on to replacing your air filter if it’s dirty—experts recommend replacing this every month.

Twice yearly, clean the area around the furnace and inspect the blower assembly—these should be free of dust and debris that could block air flow.

Yearly, check your flue pipe to make sure it’s secure and venting properly and set up a visit from a qualified HVAC technician. They’ll check your burners, heat exchanger and other components to make sure everything’s good.

Fireplaces

To make sure your natural gas fireplace is in tip-top shape, perform a monthly inspection during heating season of the exterior fireplace framework, checking for any gaps or damage. Clean your glass with a solution of vinegar and water and check the fireplace logs for signs of wear or fading.

Seasonally, it’s good to do a thorough cleaning of the fireplace interior, using a vacuum to remove dust, debris and pet hair. You’ll also want to test your ignition system, making sure it lights properly. And you’ll want to clean valves and ports with steel wool or fine-grit sandpaper. You can brush a bit of soapy water onto lines, ports and valves to see if they’re working properly. Bubbles will indicate a leak.

Yearly, it’s good to have a professional come out and do an inspection.

Pool Heaters

To keep up with the maintenance of your natural gas pool heater, inspect and clean its filters monthly, keep an eye on water chemistry—pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness can corrode parts when they’re not in balance—and check for worn seals or loose connections.

Seasonally, you’ll want to inspect your pool heater’s burners and ignition system, keeping them clean and free of debris. And keep an eye on your heat exchanger, as scale and mineral buildup can create inefficiencies.

Yearly, it’s advised to shield your natural gas pool heater from the elements and, like many other appliances around them home, consider having it professionally inspected. Technicians often spot hidden issues that can lead to bigger problems down the road.

Air Conditioners

Just like a furnace, you’ll want to check your thermostat and air filters monthly when your natural gas air conditioner is in use during warm weather. It’s also smart to do a quick visual inspection, looking for any signs of damage or debris near your unit, especially outside where your air conditioner condenser is located—common after storms.

Seasonally, check your refrigerant lines for visible signs of leaks or damage—low refrigerant levels will affect cooling performance. You’ll also want to clear air conditioner drain lines and pans—a wet/dry vacuum works well for this. When drainage water backs up, it can cause mold issues or even prevent your unit from switching on when it’s supposed to. Consider cleaning your system’s condenser and evaporator coils as well using a soft brush—dust tends to build up on these, and that can prevent proper air flow.

Yearly, schedule a checkup with a service technician, especially before the start of the warmer months. Air Conditioner repair technicians tend to be busy when it’s hot out, and you don’t want to get caught having to wait days or weeks to get service.

Want to know more about these air conditioners? Read our in-depth blog: A Closer Look at Natural Gas Air Conditioners.

Refrigerators

Similar to other natural gas appliances, natural gas refrigerators require regular maintenance to keep them running as efficiently as possible.

If your refrigerator has filters, check and replace them as needed monthly. And while you’re doing that, take a look at your door seals to make sure they’re not cracked or damaged. Replace them if necessary.

Twice yearly, inspect your refrigerator coils, using a soft brush or vacuum to remove any dust that’s accumulated.

Yearly, clean any soot buildup from your refrigerator’s flue. Inspect and clean the burner area using compressed air in a can, and make sure the flame is a blue color with a white or yellow tip. You’ll also want to clear the drain pan and drip hole annually to keep your fridge in great shape. If you need help, call a service technician.

Thanks for reading our blog. We hope these tips help cut your energy costs and preserve the life of your appliances.