Is your Fireplace ready for the season?

12/17/2020 (Permalink)

Think safety before you start a fire.

What to Check Before You Light a Fire

Clean the fireplace area. Be sure all flammable materials, such as drapes, magazines, books, clothing and home decor items, are well away from the fireplace. If you have a mantel, check that nothing is hanging off of it.

Check the chimney. Make sure the protective liners of your chimney are in good working order. Search for a certified professional to help clean and inspect your fireplace and chimney. When looking for a professional, you may want to ask these questions:

• How long has the professional been in business?
• Does the professional have references?
• Do they have any unresolved complaints filed within the city or state?
• Do they or the company they work for carry valid business liability insurance?
• Does their company guarantee a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep will be there for the inspection?

Clear the air. Be sure the room where your fireplace is located has been well ventilated and is free of any flammable fumes and gases.

How to Light a Fire

When you’re ready to set up and light the fire, be sure to follow these steps:

• Step 1: Place two medium sized pieces of firewood on the metal grate approximately 6 inches apart.
• Step 2: Crumple sheets of newspaper (tinder) in between the two pieces of firewood and cover the tinder with kindling.
• Step 3: Place one to two more pieces of firewood on top of the other logs. Make sure there is enough space for ventilation.
• Step 4: Check that the fireplace damper (vent) is fully open.
• Step 5: Start off by twisting a single sheet of newspaper and light it while holding it as high up as possible in the fireplace. Be careful not to burn yourself. This can help establish a good draft in the chimney as the heat rises.
• Step 6: Slowly light the kindling with the burning paper.
• Step 7: Once a fire is established, add firewood as needed and make sure to keep flames visible below the fireplace opening.