It’s that time of year again – the sun is setting earlier, there’s a hint of winter chill in the air, and your fireplace is more appealing than ever. At Highpoint Chimney Services, we understand the pull of a crackling fire on a cold evening. However, that warm, inviting glow comes with important responsibilities. Like any heating appliance, your fireplace requires proper care and attention to ensure it remains a source of comfort rather than concern.
Stay on top of your chimney maintenance with annual chimney inspections and sweepings from Highpoint Chimney Services. Call us to schedule your next appointment now at 908-864-4114 or click here to request an appointment.
What Should I Never Burn in My Fireplace?
The allure of a warm fire can tempt us to throw in just about anything that will burn, but not all materials are safe for indoor fireplaces. Here’s a list of items you should always avoid:
- Treated or painted wood. This type of wood can release harmful chemicals when burned. Treated wood is often preserved with chemicals that emit toxic fumes, while painted wood can also release dangerous compounds into the air.
- Green or wet wood. While it may seem more logical to burn freshly chopped wood, this type of firewood contains high moisture levels that create excess smoke and creosote. Creosote is a sticky, flammable byproduct that can accumulate in your chimney, increasing the risk of a chimney fire.
- Cardboard, colored paper, or magazines. These materials might seem harmless, but the chemicals in inks and dyes release toxic fumes when burned. Burning cardboard or paper can also create large, unpredictable flames that increase fire risk.
- Plastic. When burned, plastics release dangerous toxins that can damage your lungs and contribute to indoor pollution. Plastic can also melt into a sticky residue that could damage your fireplace or chimney.
- Accelerants like gasoline or lighter fluid. These products are highly flammable and dangerous. Even a small amount can cause explosive flames, posing a severe risk.
Can I Leave a Fire Unattended in My Fireplace?
One of the fundamental rules of fireplace safety is to never leave a fire unattended, even for a short time. Fires can emit sparks or embers that may escape and ignite nearby items like carpets or furniture, creating a risk of house fires. An unsupervised fire has the potential to cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can build up without warning and poses a severe risk to anyone in the home.
If you have pets or children, they may unknowingly approach the fire or knock something into it, increasing the risk. Even if you’re only stepping away briefly, it’s best to have someone keep an eye on the fire or, if possible, let it extinguish fully before leaving it unattended. With a fire actively burning, safety precautions are essential for keeping your home safe.
Is It Safe to Close the Damper While the Fire Is Burning?
A fireplace damper regulates airflow through the chimney, and it’s important to keep it open while the fire is burning. Closing it while a fire is burning is like sealing the exhaust pipe on your car while it’s running – dangerous fumes have nowhere to go except back into your living space. Even more serious is the risk of carbon monoxide buildup, which is toxic and difficult to detect.
Keep your damper fully open whenever there’s an active fire or even smoldering embers in your fireplace. Wait until the ashes are completely cool before closing the damper to prevent heat loss up your chimney. If you’re unsure about your damper’s position or operation, our team at Highpoint Chimney Services can help ensure it’s working properly.
Can I Ignore Cracks or Damage in My Fireplace?
Over time, it’s natural for some wear and tear to appear in your fireplace or chimney, but ignoring any visible damage is a mistake. That small crack in your firebox might seem insignificant now, but like a tiny leak in a boat, it can lead to bigger problems if left unaddressed. Cracks and damage in your fireplace can allow heat and flames to access areas of your home’s structure they were never meant to reach. What starts as a hairline fracture can quickly become a major safety hazard.
Regular chimney inspections and prompt repairs of any found damage are crucial for maintaining a safe fireplace. If you spot any cracks or damage, it’s wise to reach out to us for a professional inspection. We can take a good look at concerning areas and recommend appropriate repairs before they become serious safety issues.
Is It Safe To Let Ashes Build Up Over Time?
While a thin layer of ash can actually help insulate your fireplace and make future fires easier to start, letting ashes accumulate excessively poses major safety and functional risks. Deep ash beds can trap heat, potentially damaging your firebox, and can also restrict proper airflow needed for efficient burning.
Clean out ashes when they reach about an inch in depth, but always wait at least 24 hours after your last fire to ensure they’re completely cool. Use a metal container for ash disposal, and store it away from your house – remember, ashes can retain heat for several days after removal.
Stay Safe & Warm This Winter
A cozy fireplace brings warmth and ambiance to chilly nights, but it also requires mindful safety practices. Following these guidelines will help you safely enjoy fires all season long. Highpoint Chimney Services is here to support you with inspections, maintenance, and advice, ensuring your fireplace remains a safe centerpiece in your home. Call us now to schedule an appointment at 908-864-4114 or contact us online.
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