Fireplaces can become very dangerous when the people using it don’t know how to properly maintain them. Some people don’t take the time to properly clean them. This is a terrible idea for a variety of reasons. If you leave the ashes in the fireplace, you are leaving a potentially flammable situation unchecked. This could easily lead to a fire. Because each situation is different, you can never be sure if you are inadvertently sitting on a tinderbox.
Yes, there are a lot of advantages that a fireplace will bring you. However, you should always keep in mind the proper ways to keep it working safely. One thing that will surely help you safely use this valuable appliance is using properly seasoned firewood. Seasoned firewood is helpful because it releases less creosote. Creosote is a sticky material that is the by-product of burned fuel, and it will collect at a faster rate when unseasoned wood is used. It is a very flammable substance, and you want to have it regularly cleaned and removed.
If your firewood is not completely dry, then it does not burn as efficiently, and it doesn’t produce as much heat. So, not only will you be using much more wood than is absolutely necessary, but you are going to end up producing more creosote because of the increased burning. Essentially, you will want to choose seasoned firewood because it takes longer to burn through. At the same time, it is producing the warmth we all love in an efficient manner. Also, remember this: not all hardwoods are good for burning in your fireplace. Keep in mind how plentiful the wood is, and how easy it is to split. If you will take the time to understand the proper way to burn wood in your fireplace, you are going to have many safe years of enjoyment.
For further information contact the pros at Environmental Chimney Service in Asheville, NC. Our owner Richie Baxley is CSIA certified & has the experience and understanding to handle any fireplace or chimney related job.