How NOT To Use Your Fireplace

A trusty, well-maintained fireplace offers so many opportunities for enjoyment. But there are certainly ways a fireplace can be misused – and conditions under which it isn’t safe to use it at all (such as when there’s an unaddressed need for repair or obstructed flue). As much comfort and ambiance as fireplaces bring to a home, they can also pose risks if not used the right way. 

Here are some things to avoid if you have a fireplace in your home…

Don’t Neglect Professional Maintenance

It’s easy to think that if there’s no readily observable problem, our home systems don’t need attention, but it’s simply not the case. Instead, homeowners need to take proactive steps to help prevent issues. That’s why we empty our dryer traps, change the oil in our lawnmowers, replace our HVAC filters, and service our vehicles. A neglected fireplace can lead to smoke damage, system deterioration, chimney fires, and carbon monoxide exposure. So be sure to avoid…

• Skipping inspections. Don’t wait until there’s a big issue to call. Instead, schedule annual inspections with a CSIA certified profession to ensure your chimney is free of blockages, creosote accumulation, and structural issues.
• Ignoring repairs. If you do notice cracks in your fireplace structure, damage to your chimney cap, or other disconcerting signs, don’t put off repairs. Timely repairs save money and more extensive damage in the long run.

Don’t Use Inappropriate Fuel

Your fireplace can only safely burn the fuel it was designed to. If you have a wood burning unit, remember that not all wood is equal when it comes to burning. So be sure to avoid…

• Burning treated or painted wood. These types of wood can release toxic fumes when burned, which is not something you want in your house!
• Burning green or damp wood. Freshly cut wood has a high moisture content, as does wood that hasn’t been kept dry. Excessive moisture in wood means it won’t burn well and will produce excess smoke. Instead, use wood that’s well seasoned – it usually takes at least six months of drying for wood to achieve this state.
• Using accelerants. One more thing – don’t add accelerants such as gasoline or lighter fluid to get the fire going more quickly. Accelerants can make your fire behave unpredictably or get too hot for your firebox to handle. Instead, stick to kindling and good old fashioned patience.

Don’t Overload Your Fireplace

If you get the firebox nice and full, you’ll get a good, hot fire that requires less maintenance throughout the evening…right? Incorrect. Not only will overstuffing the firebox not work out as planned, it can be downright hazardous.

Overfilling the firebox can minimize airflow, making it harder to keep a good fire going. And if it does get too hot, this can damage the firebox or chimney. Another issue? Logs can tumble out of a too-full fireplace, which is a serious hazard to a home and the people in it.

Don’t Ignore Safe Burning Guidelines

There are a number of safe burning practices that should be followed each time your fireplace is used. These offer a measure of protection against the risk of uncontained fire. So be sure to avoid…

• Neglecting clearances. Any combustible material, such as fabric, wood, paper, or plastic, should be kept at least 36 inches (3 feet) away from your fireplace. If exposed to a spark or even high temperatures alone, items made of these materials can start on fire.
• Leaving your fire unattended. If your fireplace is in use, you or another responsible adult should be present and tending to it. If you need to leave or head to bed, make sure your fire is out first.
• Using your fireplace without a screen. A screen prevents sparks and embers from escaping into your home.
• Forgetting smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Be sure to place your alarms according to manufacturer recommendations, test them routinely, and replace batteries often.

Don’t Improperly Extinguish Your Fires

You know your fire needs to be out before leaving the room. But how to put it out? Pouring water on a hot fire might seem like an obvious choice, but it can produce steam and cause burns. Instead, let the fire burn down naturally or use a fireplace shovel to spread the coals out, allowing them to cool safely.

Don’t Burn Garbage or Treated Wood

It may be tempting to use your fireplace to get rid of an item or two you no longer need, but this isn’t a safe practice. You simply don’t know what you’re exposing yourself to or if the item will burn safely. Plastic, foil, colored paper products, heavy inks…all of these materials can release harmful chemicals and contribute to the build-up of dangerous residues in your chimney. Instead, only burn what your fireplace was designed to burn.

Don’t Treat All Fireplaces Alike

Different types of fireplaces have their own requirements and safety protocols. So be sure to avoid…

• Treating wood-burning and gas fireplaces the same. They have very different venting and maintenance needs. Ignoring these needs can lead to malfunctions or dangerous gas leaks.
• Neglecting manufacturer guidelines. Become well versed in the manufacturer’s guidelines for operating your specific type of fireplace. Failing to follow these can void warranties and create safety hazards.

Prioritizing Safety in the Lackawanna County Area: Trust Our Experts

Fireplaces have been warming homes for centuries, and today’s technology makes them safer and more efficient than ever. But they should always be used with safety in mind so their benefits can be truly enjoyed without compromising your well being.

If you have concerns about your fireplace, or if you need an inspection or service, be sure to put your mind at ease by calling us today. There’s a reason we rate A+ with the Better Business Bureau – it’s because we prioritize our customer’s needs. We’re well trained and equipped to offer you clear communication, transparency, and long-term solutions and service.

Call or book online now.