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7 Ways to Prepare Your Fireplace for Use This Winter
Statistics show that approximately 42% of home fires are associated with fireplaces. Therefore, it’s important to take proper precautions to avoid becoming part of this statistic. That means knowing how to prepare and use your fireplace safely. Read on to learn seven ways on how to prepare your fireplace for use this winter.
<h2>Hire a Professional Chimney Cleaner</h2>
Consider sweeping and cleaning your wood-burning fireplace before you fire it up. Have an expert take care of all the creosote build-up, charred wood chunks, and ashes from last winter. Creosote, in particular, is known to cause a fire hazard when left to accumulate. That is why cleaning your chimney is vital. It not only makes it easy to start a new fire but also guarantees the safety of you and your family.
<h2>Inspect for any Damages and Debris</h2>
For a fireplace to function properly, all its elements must be in good working condition. A damaged chimney has cracks, debris and loose bricks. Failing to repair it, may result in serious fire hazards. That is why you should hire a chimney sweep to check the structure and lining of your chimney thoroughly.
Do not attempt to repair firebricks on your own using ordinary mortar. Instead, leave everything to the experts. Finally, check the chimney for birds, bird nests, and other rodents.
<h2>Check the Chimney Cover</h2>
To prepare your fireplace for use, make sure your chimney is capped correctly. A good chimney cap is fitted with wire mesh sides, keeping rain, birds, rodents and debris out. If you already have a one, ensure it’s installed correctly and in good condition. If not, replace a missing cap or repair a damaged one. Capping might not seem important, but it is essential.
<h2>Check the Fireplace Damper</h2>
A damper is a valve that regulates the flow of air through the chimney. There should be no debris around the damper preventing it from opening and closing. Before using the fireplace to heat your home, remember this simple step.
<h2>Consider a Heatproof Guard</h2>
Having a heatproof glass screen improves the energy efficiency of your fireplace. If your fireplace already has a glass door, clean it with a paper towel and glass door cleaner. If not, consider installing a metal screen or a glass guard. They help in preventing errant sparks from escaping and damaging the surrounding area.
<h2>Prepare your Fireplace: Clean the Blower</h2>
In most cases, fireplace blowers do not come with filters. Check if your gas burning fireplace is equipped with one. If so, clean it out before lighting the first fire of the season. Frequent use of your fireplace may result in dust build-up in the blower blades. The accumulated dust on the blower tends to cause premature wear of the bearings. Also, it insulates the motor, causing cooling failure and possibly a malfunction.
<h2>Professionally Service your Gas-burning Fireplace</h2>
Proper maintenance and cleaning of an entire fireplace appliance can help prevent damage. A full inspection of the system by a qualified technician is also beneficial. The service should include proper cleaning of the airways in the pilot and main burners. Doing so ensures proper operation. Also, do not forget to replace all the batteries in the remote transmitters. Get the smoke detectors tested to make sure that they are working efficiently. Remember to schedule regular maintenance as you prepare to use your fireplace.
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
Fireplaces are a great way to heat your home during the fall and winter season. However, before the weather gets colder, seek preparation and safety advice on how to use your fireplace. The above tips will guide you as you prepare your fireplace for use this winter.