FIREPLACE DOOR USER GUIDE
How to Safely Use Your Fireplace Doors

This guide explains how to operate your fireplace doors correctly, whether they use tempered glass or ceramic glass, and outlines the essential safety rules for wood-burning or gas fireplaces.

1. Before Using Your Fireplace Doors

Check That Everything Is Installed Correctly

• Doors should open/close smoothly
• Frame must sit flush against the fireplace opening
• Mesh screen (if included) should slide or swing freely
• Verify that all hardware is tightened and secure

Inspect the Glass

• Make sure the glass is clean, with no cracks or chips
• If any damage is visible, do not use the fireplace until repaired

2. Operating the Doors (Tempered Glass)

Tempered glass doors must remain fully open during wood-burning fires.

How to Use Tempered Doors:

• Open both doors fully before lighting a wood fire
• Use the mesh screen for spark protection
• Keep the doors open until the fire is fully out and the interior has cooled

Important Safety Rules for Tempered Glass:

• Never burn wood with the glass closed
• Do not expose tempered glass to direct flame
• Avoid sudden temperature changes (e.g., spraying cleaner on warm glass)
• Use only with gas logs or wood-burning fires with doors open

3. Operating the Doors (Ceramic Glass)

Ceramic glass can remain closed during wood-burning fires.
It is built for extremely high heat.

How to Use Ceramic Doors:

• You may burn wood with the doors closed or open
• Closing the doors reduces heat loss, increases efficiency, and prevents sparks
• Use the built-in air vents (if applicable) for proper airflow

Important Safety Rules for Ceramic Glass:

• Avoid slamming the doors—they can crack under impact
• Allow the glass to cool before cleaning
• Do not use abrasive cleaners

4. Using Mesh Screens

Most fireplace doors include mesh for safety.

Mesh Screen Guidelines:

• Use the mesh anytime a wood fire is burning
• Screens stop sparks from escaping
• Screens must stay closed when burning wood with tempered glass
• You may run gas fires with the mesh open if preferred

5. Starting a Fire Safely

Wood-Burning Fireplaces:

Open the damper
Open the fireplace doors
Place a mesh screen in front
Use dry wood only
Start small, then build up the fire gradually

Gas Log Fireplaces:

Ensure pilot and burner are in good working order
Follow manufacturer lighting instructions
Keep area around the burner clear

6. Closing the Doors

Tempered Glass:

• Close only when the fire is completely out
• Glass must be cool before closing fully

Ceramic Glass:

• Can remain closed during burning
• Close gently—do not force the doors

7. Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning Tempered Glass:

• Wait until completely cooled
• Use a standard glass cleaner
• Soft microfiber cloth only

Cleaning Ceramic Glass:

• Use ceramic-safe cleaner (wood-burning residue is acidic)
• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives
• Clean after heavy use to prevent permanent haze

Maintenance Tips:

• Tighten any loose screws or hinges
• Wipe the frame regularly with a damp cloth
• Inspect gaskets (if present) annually

8. When to Stop Using the Fireplace

Stop using your fireplace immediately if:

• Glass shows cracks, chips, or white hazed stress marks
• Doors no longer close properly
• Frame becomes loose
• You smell gas (FOR GAS UNITS ONLY — evacuate and contact a professional)

9. General Safety Reminders

• Never leave a burning fire unattended
• Keep children and pets away from the firebox
• Maintain a minimum 36” clearance from flammable materials
• Have your chimney inspected yearly
• Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

10. Warranty & Support

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact us anytime:
ExceptionalFire Support
Phone: 949-619-7824
Email: info@exceptionalfire.com

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