Gas fireplaces are a great addition to any home since they are so easy to use, clean, and maintain. Additionally, they are energy efficient and more environmentally friendly than wood-burning ones.

Place the rocks in an old strainer and rinse them with cold water. Vacuum any dirt, dust, or debris from the firebox floor.

It may be often overlooked, but it's vitally important to clean your fireplace. How often you have it maintained depends on the type you have.

There’s something special about a real, wood-burning fireplace: The scent, the crackling sounds, and watching the logs slowly burn down to glowing embers. But they’re also a hassle, and pretty dirty.

Q: Read your article [about fireplace cleaning]. I have a propane gas fired fireplace that uses Rasmussen/Alterna Fire Stones. Do not believe that previous owner (3.5 yrs ago) ever used the fireplace.

Lee Wallender is a home improvement writer of nearly 20 years and specializes in home remodeling, repair and maintenance. Kristin is a lead editor at Forbes Home and has nearly a decade of ...