Arrange a Yearly Inspection
All chimneys should be inspected and cleaned by a chimney cleaning professional at least once a year, or about once every 80 fires. A thorough cleaning will remove any buildup of creosote, an oily and highly flammable byproduct of burning wood, giving you a safer fireplace.
Related: 7 Mistakes Not to Make with Your Fireplace
Check for Cracks and Damage
Check for cracks and loose joints of the firebricks inside the fireplace, and check the exterior masonry for damage. Hire a professional mason to do any repairs—never try to repair firebrick with regular mortar, as the mixture cannot stand up to high heat.
Related: 10 Things Never to Burn in the Fireplace
Inspect the Chimney Cap and Damper
Make sure the fireplace damper is working properly and that there is no debris preventing it from opening and closing. Confirm that the chimney cap is firmly attached and in good condition. The cap should include protective screening to keep birds, squirrels, bats, and other pests from entering the chimney.
Related: 10 Home Heating Mistakes That Spike Your Bills
Clear Away Tree Limbs
While you are outside checking the chimney cap, prune any overhanging tree limbs that may be encroaching on the chimney. Not only do tree limbs present a fire hazard, they can also restrict the proper draft of the chimney and damage the cap.
Clear Out Ashes
Clean out the firebox once a week, or whenever ash is more than an inch deep. Coals can remain hot for up to three days, so make sure everything is completely cold. Sweep or vacuum the cold ashes and dispose of them outside—wood ashes are perfect for garden beds and compost piles.
Consider Heatproof Glass
Consider installing heatproof glass doors to improve the energy efficiency of your fireplace. Doors can also prevent sparks from escaping the fireplace and damaging the surrounding flooring. If your fireplace already has glass doors, clean them with a paper towel and glass fireplace door cleaner.
Clean Brass Fireplaces
Clean a brass fireplace surround naturally by spreading a thin film of tomato paste, tomato sauce, or ketchup on it; letting it sit for an hour; and then cleaning with hot soapy water. Alternatively, you can use a good-quality commercial brass polish and a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid using highly abrasive scrubbing cloths, metal-bristled brushes, or steel wool.
Store Wood Outside the Home
Stock up on good-quality firewood, and store it away from the house to avoid attracting pests. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and birch burn hotter and longer than soft woods like pine. You can also burn specially made fireplace logs, like Duraflame or Pres-to-Logs. Never burn treated or painted wood, which both produce dangerous fumes.
Maintain Your Gas Fireplace
If you have a gas fireplace, check to make sure that the pilot light is on and the vents are all clear and working properly. Check the logs, liners, and burners for cracks, and replace any damaged components.
Maintain Your Electric Fireplace
If you have an electric fireplace, check all the wires to make sure none are frayed or broken. Also, make sure that all connectors are securely fastened. Finally, be sure to vacuum and dust the fireplace on a regular basis.
A Safe and Cozy Season
Do your due diligence on fireplace maintenance; then cozy up by the fire all winter long.
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