With Halloween coming to a close, Fireplace season is going to quickly be in full swing!  We want everyone to stay safe when using a fireplace this winter so here are a few helpful hints to a winter full of warmth:

Fireplace_Burning

Checking From the Outside

Examine the chimney to make sure a chimney cap is present and in good repair. The metal cap keeps animals, rain, and snow out of the chimney, while acting as a spark arrester that prevents hot embers from landing on your roofing.

If you spot anything amiss, call a licensed chimney professional to fix the problem.

Looking Inside Your Home

With a flashlight, inspect the flue damper to make sure it opens, closes, and seals properly. “If the damper doesn’t seal well, you’ll lose a tremendous amount of heat from the home when the fireplace isn’t in use,” explains Gary Spolar, a licensed sweep and owner of Century Chimney in northeast Ohio. With the damper open, check the flue for combustible material such as animal nests or other foreign objects. You should be able to see daylight at the top. Inspect the fireplace surround, hearth, and firebox to make sure there are no cracked bricks or missing mortar. Damage inside the firebox is serious — have a professional fireplace and chimney inspection. Also, check for obvious signs of moisture inside the firebox, which could mean a faulty cap.

Inspecting a Gas-Burning Fireplace

We enjoy gas fireplaces because they’re low-maintenance — but that doesn’t mean they’re no-maintenance.

Make sure you:

May you have a safe, fun, and warm winter ahead snuggled up next to your fireplace!

Source: www.houselogic.com

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