How to Winterize your Chimney
The coming winter months are the perfect time to cozy up in front of a wood fire. A wood burning fireplace not only saves you money in heating costs, but is a wonderful place to spend time with a good book and a cup of merriment.
To ensure a warm and toasty winter season, it is important to be mindful of the safety hazards that come with owning and using a wood burning fireplace, and remember to schedule routine fireplace and wood-stove maintenance. Over time, harmful creosote and soot build-up can solidify and clog the interior of a flue or chimney, posing a very serious fire hazard.
Winterize Your Chimney
Before you light your first fire of the season, make sure the flue damper is functioning properly. Make sure it is opening and closing smoothly as to avoid any problems with carbon monoxide.
Burning good seasoned dry wood can help reduce creosote build-up in your chimney. Allow your wood to fully dry before burning. Burning damp wood creates more smoke as well as potentially flammable creosote accumulation.
Inspect your chimney for cracks and air leaks. Seal them to prevent unwanted drafts and heat loss. If you have glass doors on your fireplace, ensure that they are properly sealed as well.
Animals can often find their way into your chimney in the winter months. Stop critters and other debris from entering your chimney by installing a good fitting chimney cap.
Remove ash and burned wood from the fireplace to keep your fires burning clean and efficiently.
With all the information available online, it is possible to keep your chimney in good functioning order yourself, but it is highly recommended to consult a licensed professional chimney cleaner, or a chimney sweep as they are known for the best results. When hiring an Asheville Chimney Repair professional, verify his or her license and insurance with your state contractor’s board.
If you follow these steps, your fireplace will be keeping you and your family warm for years to come! Stay warm! Spring is coming.