How to Eliminate the Popping Sound in a Gas Log Fireplace

Although a popping sound is normal when a gas fireplace is burning at a high level, excessive popping can indicate a chimney fire caused by creosote buildup in the chimney. Creosote is a black, powdery residue that builds up in the chimney when natural wood is burned. It can continue to pose a fire risk after a homeowner converts a fireplace to gas logs. You can handle minor chimney cleaning without hiring a professional, but heavy creosote buildup requires a chimney-cleaning specialist to inspect the chimney and eliminate buildup using professional tools.

Plastic sheet
Gardening gloves
Plastic goggles
Face mask
Fireplace broom
Fireplace dustpan
Round brushing rod
Flashlight
Vacuum cleaner

Instructions

- 1
  Lay the plastic sheet in front of the inactive fireplace. The plastic sheet protects your floor or carpeting from creosote that falls from the chimney, and it makes cleanup easier.
- 2
  Protect your face and hands by putting on the face mask, gloves and plastic goggles. Wear old, worn clothing because creosote can leave stains.
- 3
  Open the chimney damper, and inspect the amount of buildup in the fireplace with the flashlight.
- 4
  Brush the inside of the chimney with the chimney brushing rod to remove buildup. Inspect the inside of the chimney with the flashlight to check for remaining residue, and continue brushing the chimney's flue (interior) until all buildup is removed.
- 5
  Brush the creosote from the fireplace with the fireplace brush, and sweep the residue into the dustpan. Pull the plastic sheet from the floor by the corners to prevent residue from spilling off of the sheet.
- 6
  Vacuum up the remaining residue with the vacuum cleaner and promptly remove the vacuum bag from the cleaning appliance.

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