If you have a gas fireplace, you should be able to see a vent exiting the fireplace directly to the outside of your home. You may also see gas lines leading to the fireplace. If the firebox in the fireplace is completely empty, it’s a wood-burning fireplace. There should be no burners or igniters in the fireplace.

Neglecting to clean your chimney can lead to serious safety hazards. A primary risk is the buildup of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire. This buildup can also create blockages in the flue, resulting in poor venting of smoke, soot, and toxic gases like carbon monoxide, which can then enter your home and create dangerously poor indoor air quality. Additionally, creosote is acidic and can damage the chimney's mortar and metal components over time, potentially allowing smoke to leak into your house. To prevent these issues, it is essential to schedule an annual chimney cleaning with a professional.

Because of the potential danger associated with incorrectly capping the gas line that serves the gas fireplace, many people will choose to hire a professional to do the work. Some homeowners may choose to hire a pro to only handle the gas line for them. They then may attempt to remove the actual insert on their own, which is a challenging—but not impossible—DIY project.

There are several ways to determine if your chimney or fireplace damper is open or closed. A simple method is to check for airflow by placing your hand near the fireplace opening; if you feel a draft or hear wind whistling, the damper is open. An open damper might also make the room feel cooler, similar to the outdoor temperature, or cause your HVAC system to work harder than usual. For a more definitive test, you can try a visual inspection, although it may be difficult to see. Alternatively, you can light a small piece of paper and observe the smoke; if it is drawn up the chimney, the damper is open. Always use the damper handle to adjust its position.