When the weather turns cold, and snow is falling, most of us want to head to the family room fireplace and hang out. But there are several things you should do to keep your fireplace in good working order.
There’s more information below that homeowners often make with their fireplaces.
Remember Safety
Many ignore it, but it’s essential to have any fireplace checked and inspected by a licensed professional every year. This will avoid any danger when you light the fireplace. And you never know if there is an obstruction in the chimney.
It’s a fact that the top reason there are house fires is a clogged chimney that was never inspected. The most common issue is that as wood burns, it produces creosote that sticks on the inside of the chimney.
Creosote builds up slowly, and it’s flammable. So if the chimney is never cleaned, it can eventually lead to a fire when the temperature gets too high.
Also, talk to the inspector about using the unit more safely. Most inspectors will tell you to clean the chimney every year.
Think About The Mantel
There are all types of mantels available for fireplaces of all sizes. But you should think about the size and shape of how it fits into the room.
A mantel that is too large can make the fireplace look small. But if the mantel isn’t big enough, it will look like it was slapped up there without a thought.
Not Opening The Damper
The damper is a door in the chimney that stops heat from getting out of the home when you aren’t using the fireplace. But many people forget to open the damper, and smoke will flood into the house.
All you need to do is check that the damper is open before you light the fireplace. It sound simple, but you might be surprised how often people forget.
Using Lighter Fluid
Everyone wants to get a roaring fire fast. But never use lighter fluid or gas indoors to start a fire. The fire will often grow out of control and become dangerous.
It’s best to use kindling or pieces of newspaper to start a fire. Of course, a fireplace with a gas line is the easiest to start with a simple match or lighter.
Breathing In Too Much Smoke
The wood that creates all the heat and aroma also produces pollution that can work its way into your lungs. Those chemicals, if breathed too much and too often, can damage your heart and lungs.
Using The Wrong Wood
It’s not recommended to throw wood in the fireplace without knowing what it is. There are many types of wood that are safe and produce a lovely fragrance, but others aren’t recommended.
No matter if you choose maple, oak, or cherry, never burn wood that is unseasonsed or green. Unseasoned means the wood hasn’t sat outside at least six months to dry. You can tell firewood is seasoned if the wood is cracked and dry on the ends.
Wood that is unseasoned shouldn’t be burned inside because it will produce excessive amounts of creosote and smoke.
Many experts say homeowners should purchase their firewood as early as possible in the season so it has more time to dry out.
Also, don’t use cedar or pine because both contain resin that will pop and send sparks into the living room.
Most people use their fireplaces without incident. And you can too if you follow the tips mentioned here.
