6 Chimney Tips for the Winter

We at Fireside Chimney Supplies are experts of all things chimneys. With the fall well under way and Winter approaching it is important to take the proper steps to keep your chimney and fireplace running smoothly. A chimney that is not maintained can cause unnecessary health risks and even fires. Neglected chimneys accumulate creosote, a combustible byproduct of charred wood, along their walls. If you add that to a high internal flue temperature you got yourself a recipe for a potential chimney fire.

While it still isn't too bad outside you want to take the proper steps to make sure your chimney and fireplace are ready to go for the winter. There would be no worse way to spend your winter finding out that you can't use your chimney because of an animal getting stuck in the chimney or high level of creosotes.

We got the lowdown and the information you need to make sure your fireplace is safe and running properly this winter!

1. Don't use a regular vacuum for cleaning ash! A regular vacuum is not safe for cleaning ash from the hearth of the fireplace. Even if the ash seems cooled, it is not uncommon for a burning clinker to be lingering hours or even days after. Cleaning the ash is important to make sure you have a good burn and also to get the allergens and smell of the ash out of the air. having a huge buildup of ash can impede airflow. What you need is an ash vacuum that is designed with a metal interior made for cleaning up ash.
2. Burn the right wood! Burning the right wood is key to having a pleasurable experience out of your fireplace. You should only burn seasoned wood as opposed to green wood. Green wood has a lot more moisture and thus won't burn as thoroughly, creating more soot and creosote. Also make sure to burn hardwoods, no soft woods. Hardwoods like oak and maple deliver more heat than their lighter counterparts.
3. Avoid spewing embers! Make sure your fireplace has a glass door or wire mesh screen to prevent fires from forming from the flying embers. You should also keep the area in front of the fireplace clear of paper and debris.
4. Cap your chimney! A chimney cap that has a wire mesh will keep out squirrels and little critters running around on the roof. It will also keep out rain, snow and leaves.
5. Get regular sweeps! Regular sweeps are important to make sure your chimney doesn't have any cracks and also to clean out the creosote from the vent! It is important to get someone certified to do a sweep for you, also someone who is insured in-case any accidents happen.
6. Install a fire and carbon monoxide alarm. This tip is self explanatory, the alarms will alert you of any potentially life threatening situations.

Now that you got the chimney tips from the chimney specialists we hope you have a safe and warm winter! If you happen to need any Chimney Liners or Fireplace supplies it might interest you to take a look at our product page!