The level of maintenance for your fireplace depends on the type of fuel you're using:
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Wood-Burning Fireplaces: Wood is the messiest fuel, requiring regular cleaning of ash, soot, and creosote. You'll also need to inspect and clean the chimney periodically to prevent blockages and potential fire hazards.
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Propane Gas Fireplaces: Propane eliminates the need for ash cleanup, but you may still see some soot or carbon buildup from burning gas. Occasional cleaning of the burner and media (e.g., logs or glass) will be required to maintain efficiency.
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Natural Gas Fireplaces: These are the cleanest option and typically require very little maintenance. You might need to check the burner for debris, but otherwise, natural gas fireplaces are virtually maintenance-free.
In general, gas fireplaces are easier to maintain than wood-burning options.