Blog

With the holiday season around the corner, it is a good idea to review some fireplace safety tips with your family. The fireplace is a popular spot in many homes during the holidays, and it is important to remember to keep this area clean and safe. All American Chimney Service wants you and your family to enjoy safe and cozy fires this winter, which is why we would like to share with you a few tips on fireplace safety.

Have your chimney professionally swept and inspected before the holidays.

To be sure your fireplace and chimney system work efficiently and safely, you need to schedule an appointment with All American Chimney Service for a chimney sweep and inspection. We will make sure your fireplace is ready for winter.

Keep the hearth area clear from children and animals.

Kids and pets can be curious about fireplaces, and you need to make sure they cannot get too close to the fire. While glass fireplace doors can be helpful, we also recommend installing a spark screen in front of your fireplace. We can help you be sure the screen is sturdy and cannot be knocked over. This screen will also protect your carpet, curtains, and furniture safe from errant sparks and embers.

Only burn seasoned wood.

For the warmest and safest fires, you should only be using seasoned wood, which has been allowed to dry for at least six months after being cut. When shopping for firewood, look for grayish-colored wood that is light for its size. Store this wood off the ground to keep it from absorbing ground moisture. Seasoned firewood will give you longer-lasting fires that do not produce a lot of smoke and creosote.

Keep your fireplace clean.

When you are using yourfireplaceregularly during the winter, you should clean the firebox at least once a week, according to HGTV. In order to remove ashes safely, you need to allow at least 24 hours after a fire has been extinguished before doing this task. Once the ashes have cooled, you scoop them out with a metal shovel into a metal bucket that has a lid. Store the closed bucket outside on a noncombustible surface, such as concrete or brick. You will want to leave behind a one-inch layer of ashes to insulate the firebox. We also recommend cleaning the glass fireplace doors weekly with a mixture of vinegar and water. Use newspaper to wipe away this cleaning formula. If there are any thick deposits on the glass doors, use a razor blade to scrape them loose.

All American Chimney Service wants you to enjoy safe, cozy, and warm fires with your family this holiday season.Contactus for all of your fireplace maintenance, repair, and installation needs.