Fireplaces add coziness and warmth to any home but require regular maintenance to keep them safe and functional. Professional cleanings are recommended, but what should you do in between those appointments?
Remove Ash Regularly
Ash build-up in your fireplace can cause serious fire hazards. As such, it is essential to remove ash regularly to avoid any potential risk of fire accidents. Here are some tips to help you safely remove ash from your fireplace.
First, make sure that you have the right equipment. You will need a proper ash shovel, a metal bucket with a lid, and a mask or a bandana to cover your nose and mouth. Always wear gloves and protective clothing when cleaning your fireplace.
Before you start, ensure that the ashes are completely cold. This may take several hours or even overnight. Once the ashes are cool, begin by removing any large pieces of debris with a fireplace tool. Next, use the ash shovel to scoop the remaining ash and embers into the metal bucket.
Be careful not to fill the bucket too full, as hot embers can cause the bucket to become hot to the touch. It is also vital to ensure that the lid is tightly secured on the bucket before disposing of the ashes. Place the bucket outside, away from your home, and any flammable materials until the ashes have completely cooled.
Inspect the Chimney and Flue
Inspecting the chimney and flue may not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, but it’s a crucial step in ensuring your safety and preventing chimney fires. Signs that indicate an unsafe chimney include notes of soot or creosote buildup, cracks or holes in the chimney brick or flue, and debris or animal nests obstructing the flue.
Not inspecting the chimney and flue before use poses various risks to your safety and home, including a higher risk of chimney fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, or smoke and soot damage to your home’s interior. Plus, chimney fires can spread to the rest of your home, causing extensive damage and compromising the safety of your family.
Use the Right Fuel
One of the easiest ways to maintain the safety of your fireplace between professional cleanings is to use the correct fuel and tools. Using improper fuel can have severe consequences for your fireplace, as well as your home and your family’s safety. When choosing firewood, it is important to select properly seasoned hardwood that has been stored in a dry area for at least six months. Using green or wet wood can produce excess creosote buildup in your chimney, which can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire.
While it is important to take these measures to maintain the safety of your fireplace, scheduling regular professional cleanings with a chimney cleaning in Levittown, PA is still recommended. A good rule of thumb is to have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned annually to prevent potential hazards such as creosote buildup, blockages, and damage to the chimney’s structure. It is also a good idea to have your chimney inspected and cleaned after a significant weather event or if you notice any unusual performance issues with your fireplace.
Bring in the Professionals
Not only can a professional clean and maintain your fireplace, but they can also check for any potential hazards such as creosote buildup, chimney damage, or issues with the flue. It’s important to remember that just because your fireplace appears to be working correctly, it doesn’t mean that it is entirely safe. A professional can help catch any problems before they become a serious hazard.
If you notice any issues with your fireplace, don’t hesitate to call for a chimney sweep in Montgomery County, PA. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your fireplace is in good hands. Plus, it’s always better to catch problems early on before they become costly and dangerous issues.
