Your fireplace can bring cozy warmth to your home throughout the winter, but you'll want to make sure that it's ready for that first fire of the season. An improperly maintained fireplace can be both a fire hazard and a carbon monoxide hazard. Use the following guide to help winterize your fireplace and ensure it's ready to keep your family warm the whole season through.
Hire A Chimney Sweep
It's important to get the chimney cleared of any dirt and debris that might have collected over the previous year. A chimney cleaning service will be able to remove any debris that might be blocking the flow of air out of your home. In some cases, you might find that a bird has built a nest in the chimney, so be sure to work with the chimney sweep to ensure the safe removal of the birds and their home. Remember that a blocked chimney can cause smoke or carbon monoxide to fill your home.
Inspect The Flue
Your flue damper is an essential component of your fireplace and chimney. It allows smoke to exit the home, and it also keeps cold wind and snow at bay when the fireplace is not in use. You'll want to make sure that it can be easily opened and closed before winter begins. You can have your chimney cleaning service test the flue if you are unsure how to test it. You'll want to open the damper before lighting a fire, so make sure you also know how to operate it properly. If the flue sticks or you have any issues with opening and closing it, be sure to schedule a repair appointment before the cold weather season starts.
Clear Your Mantel
Your mantel might be a place where you hang seasonal decorations or your children's school artwork. Any items that are hanging off of the mantel may be in the path of embers and ashes from the fireplace, which can cause a fire hazard in your home. Clear these items away before lighting your first fire. You may also want to remove any items on top of the mantel if you feel they are too close to the flames. As an added precaution, place a fire extinguisher nearby for an added layer of safety.
Inspect Your Screen
If your fireplace has a screen, be sure to inspect it as part of your winterization plan. A properly installed screen will keep flying ashes and embers in the fireplace to help prevent accidental fires in your home. A screen also provides added safety for homes with children and pets. If you don't already have a screen, consider having one installed before you begin to use the fireplace. You can use glass, metal, or mesh screens to keep embers away from your floors and furniture.
Contact a company like A & A Chimney Sweep to learn more.
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