Thread: Can anyone tell me what this white stuff is in my gas fireplace?

A new homeowner and I have a question. I have never owned a gas fireplace before so I'm pretty much clueless on what to expect with them. I've noticed this white dust like substance collecting on the logs in the fireplace. It looks like snow almost, not the typical dust looking particle. I was curious if anyone has come across this before. I have attached some pictures.

Just a note too we have been experiencing some problems with pulling this fine white powder out of our carpet which also has me batty because I have no idea what it is and it keeps clogging up my vaccum. Before we moved in the carpets were cleanned by a company that promotes zero residue (zerorez was the company) and once we found out when we vacuumed we were getting this white residue we had them come back and re-clean, though the problem still persists.

My thoughts happen to be that the two are connected, the white powder (which I'm sure is getting into the air and is not good to breathe in) is causing the formations in the fireplace. Just wish I could figure out what to do. I've debated getting the powder from the carpet tested just so I know we aren't breathing in something harmful. Just not sure where to even start or who to call to help. If you have any idea I would appreciate some help...

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Originally Posted by Roclyn Mewhorter

A new homeowner and I have a question. I have never owned a gas fireplace before so I'm pretty much clueless on what to expect with them. I've noticed this white dust like substance collecting on the logs in the fireplace. It looks like snow almost, not the typical dust looking particle. I was curious if anyone has come across this before. I have attached some pictures.

Just a note too we have been experiencing some problems with pulling this fine white powder out of our carpet which also has me batty because I have no idea what it is and it keeps clogging up my vaccum. Before we moved in the carpets were cleanned by a company that promotes zero residue (zerorez was the company) and once we found out when we vacuumed we were getting this white residue we had them come back and re-clean, though the problem still persists.

My thoughts happen to be that the two are connected, the white powder (which I'm sure is getting into the air and is not good to breathe in) is causing the formations in the fireplace. Just wish I could figure out what to do. I've debated getting the powder from the carpet tested just so I know we aren't breathing in something harmful. Just not sure where to even start or who to call to help. If you have any idea I would appreciate some help...

Is that a ventless log fireplace? It looks like it might be one, but I can see the entire firebox in the photo.

Regardless, the fireplace log set and burner is not burning properly. Stop using it and have a fireplace company or specialist come out and figure out what is wrong. That white crystal like deposits in the fireplace are the byproducts of combustion gases not burning properly or venting properly.

The what stuff in the carpet is most likely cleaning crap from the carpet company, the two are not related.

Thank you Scott! I believe it is a ventless fireplace. I will be looking into your suggestions and calling around. I appreciate your quick response!!