HOW TO PREPARE
A FIREPLACE FOR
THE WINTER
As hours of
daylight
shorten
and fall gives way
to winter, thoughts
shift from fall
foliage to spending
time cuddling under
warm blankets and
being cozy indoors.
A fi replace can improve
the ambiance
of any room and help to create a warm and welcoming
gathering spot.
Home fi replaces typically are wood-burning or gas.
Though maintenance for these fi replaces differs, certain
preparatory steps must be taken to prepare a fi replace for
winter.
Clear the clutter - Items can accumulate in areas that
are not in use, and a fi replace is no exception. Take a
few hours to remove any belongings from in front of the
fi replace and clean the mantle thoroughly.
Have the chimney cleaned - Hire a professional chimney
cleaning company to inspect the chimney and clean
it thoroughly before winter. According to BobVila.com,
a chimney should be cleaned once a year, or after about
every 80 fi res. The National Fire Protection Association
says failure to properly clean chimneys is one of the
leading contributors to home fi res. That's due to creosote,
a highly fl ammable residue that builds up in the fl ue that
lines the chimney.
Inspect the interior - The interior of a wood-burning
fi replace is likely lined with fi re bricks. Check for cracks
and loose joints. Hire a professional mason to make any
repairs, as special materials are needed to withstand the
heat of fi res.
Install a chimney cap and screen - According to Family
Handyman, a chimney cap is a protective covering that
goes over the top of the chimney. It is made of steel or
copper mesh with a cap on top. This protects the chimney
from rain and downdrafts and keeps animals and debris
from getting into the chimney.
Prune overhanging branches - If there are trees close
to the home and the chimney, cut them back, as they can
be a fi re hazard. Branches and leaves also can restrict the
proper draft of the chimney.
Assess the outdoor vent - Gas fi replaces typically emit
exhaust through a vent in the home. Remove any blockages
from the vent, including leaves, cobwebs and debris.
Check glass or other coverings - The glass or face of
the fi replace helps regulate carbon monoxide exposure
and protects people from the fl ames. Be sure the glass
covering is intact.
Clean ceramic logs - Gas fi replaces use ceramic logs,
rocks or beads that can become dusty. Clean them prior
to use. Dirty ceramic logs can be a fi re hazard and produce
an unpleasant burning smell.
Check the blower and pilot - If the fi replace has an
electric blower, clean and dust it so it doesn't become
clogged. Inspect the pilot light for any wear and tear that
includes wiring or structural issues.
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1364 Lincoln Ave.,Holbrook
Nassau Lic #H04569000 | Suffolk Lic # 57857-H | NYC Lic #2065222-DCA
727993-1
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Pennysaver- October 19, 2023 Find Us Online at PennysaverPlus.com ! 303 Farmingdale - Pg 27