Be Winter Ready With These Fireplace Maintenance Tips

​We’re still a ways from colder weather here in the Houston area, but it’s not too early to get your fireplace winter ready. Since most fireplaces in our area don’t get heavy use, the annual maintenance is pretty simple. We also have a few tips for best operation of your fireplace.
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​Gas fireplaces are generally lower maintenance than their wood burning counterparts, but they do require some attention each year prior to use. Before getting started, make sure the fireplace and glass are completely cool and that the gas valve is in the off position. If your gas fireplace has a decorative barrier, go ahead and remove it.

1. Inspect the glass for scratches, cracks and breakage. If the glass is damaged in any way, the fireplace should not be used until the glass is replaced.
2. Inspect the gasket between the glass and fireplace for an airtight seal to ensure gases are trapped inside the fireplace when in use.
3. Clean both sides of the glass with a soft cloth and fireplace glass cleaner. Don’t use regular glass cleaner, such as Windex, as it contains ammonia which will react with the gas when the fireplace is lit.
4. Vacuum out any dirt or dust from inside and outside the firebox.
5. Inspect the interior of the firebox for rust or flaking of paint and to ensure nothing is obstructing the pilot. If you notice rust or paint issues, it can be corrected DIY but it’s very important that you use products designed specifically for this use.
6. Close the glass, reinstall the decorative barrier, and turn the gas valve back on.
7. For vented gas fireplaces, inspect the vent to ensure it is free of debris such as bird or squirrels’ nest and leaves.
8. Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
9. Test the igniter to ensure it lights smoothly and without delay.  

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Wood burning fireplace with gas log lighter.

​Wood burning fireplaces come in two varieties, those with a gas log lighter and those without. All steps will be the same with the exception of #7 which only applies if you have a gas log lighter. Make sure the fireplace is completely cool before beginning.

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1. Check the operation of the damper to make sure it opens easily and completely. Inspect it for any signs of cracking or rusted through areas. If the damper is in poor shape and needs to be replaced, contact a professional as this is not a DIY job.
2. Inspect the flue to ensure it is clear and free of damage. If you notice heavy creosote buildup, contact a professional chimney sweep.
3. Inspect the protective screening or door to ensure it is in good condition and will prevent embers and ashes from escaping.
4. Inspect the chimney cap to confirm it is securely in place. If you have a mesh type material over the open sides to keep rain, debris, birds and squirrels out, ensure it is in good condition. If you don’t already have this or you need to replace it, make sure to use a non-combustible material approved for this use.
5. Trim any tree limbs that are encroaching on the chimney. Tree limbs can obstruct draft airflow and create a fire hazard.
6. Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
7. Test the igniter to ensure it lights smoothly and without delay.
8. Make sure no combustible materials are ever located within 12 inches of the fireplace opening while in use. 

If you are ever uncomfortable performing the annual fireplace maintenance yourself, or if you find anything out of the ordinary during your inspection, contact a local professional to help you out. 

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​There’s nothing quite like a warm, cozy fire on a cold winter night. For the best fire and easiest ongoing maintenance of your fireplace, check out these tips.

1. Make sure the wood is completely dry before burning it. Hardwoods like hickory, pecan, and oak burn longer while soft, resinous woods like pine burn faster and produce more creosote.
2. Never burn painted or treated wood, construction scraps, or lumber in your fireplace as it can release harmful chemicals into your home.
3. Crack a window in the room to prevent the room from becoming smoky. Run ceiling fans clockwise on low speeds to circulate the warm air from the ceiling to the living area.
4. Use kindling to help start the fire rather than flammable liquids.
5. Keep the fire small as large, high heat fires produce more smoke creating more creosote which will require more maintenance in the future.
6. Since wood attracts bugs, only bring inside the amount of wood you need and make regular trips outdoors to get more. 
7. Keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use to prevent warm indoor air from escaping.  

 
We hope you are as excited as we are for the colder weather to get here and that you enjoy your winter and your fireplace.