It’s officially fireplace season, which means getting cozy with friends and family beside the fire. But before firing your hearth up, take these steps to make sure it operates both safely and efficiently.
Get your fireplace, insert and/or stove annually maintenanced. This will ensure it is functioning correctly and that it is clean and ready for use!
For wood burning heating appliances, use wood that has been properly stored and dried thoroughly. Wood with high levels of moisture often leads to more smoke.
Know your official clearance zone, per your appliance manual. While it’s always enjoyable to decorate the mantel or areas surround your hearth, it’s important to keep flammable items placed outside the clearance area. This can prevent fires.
Replace your smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries with a fresh pair and test it to ensure it is still operable.
Before leaving the house and walking away from your hearth, check that your fire has been fully extinguished.
