A safe and functioning chimney is critical, especially around the holidays. During the holidays you’ll likely be using your fireplace and chimney a lot more as you enjoy cozy nights curled up with friends and family by the fire. Spotting chimney issues before the holiday season swings into full gear can make or break the magic and atmosphere of a cozy fire at holiday gatherings. Let’s talk more about how you can spot issues early on and have them resolved before it’s too late.
Chimney Maintenance and Repairskeeping up with your annual maintenance is a huge part of enjoying a safer and more efficient chimney and fireplace experience. As the holidays approach it’s imperative to schedule your cleaning and inspection so that a professional might spot any potential issues as well as clear out any existing soot, creosote, or obstructions in the chimney.
if any damaged chimney parts are spotted during your inspection, it’s important to schedule repairs and have them completed before burning a fire in your fireplace. Many common chimney issues and fireplace issues can lead to serious hazards with your fireplace if left unresolved.
If you notice any signs of common chimney issues such as leaking, cracks, rusting, smoke backups, and more it’s important to call a professional as soon as possible to have these issues resolved.
Aside from common maintenance and upkeep with your fireplace, it’s important to understand and practice fire safety when using your fireplace during the holidays. Below we’ll discuss a few of our favorite safety tips and ways to enjoy a safer and longer burning fire.
burning well-seasoned wood in your fireplace can help create a warmer, longer lasting fire. Try to avoid any damp woods and never burn painted or chemically treated wood in your fireplace as they can lead two serious safety hazards and air pollution in your space.
Ensure that your damper is functioning and always open when the fireplace is in use. If your damper is broken or closed it can lead to a smoke build up in your space which can be dangerous.
Anytime you were burning a fire, even in the safety of your fireplace, accidents can happen. installing a smoke and carbon monoxide detector can help you avoid some of the potential dangers associated with your fireplace.
Any time your fireplace is in use it is important to have a responsible and capable adult nearby monitoring the fire. Children and animals can be very curious, and a fireplace may peak their interest. Whenever there are children and animals present it’s important to keep a close eye on them as well as ensuring that children understand fire safety.
Here at National Chimney Cleaners we have a trained and experienced team ready to help keep your fireplace and chimney safer this holiday season. Give us a call today to schedule your inspection, cleaning, repair, and more.
