Best Fireplace Maintenance and Safety Tips

Nothing feels cosier than the fuzzy and warm feeling you get from the fireplace during the winter. It is more like the central place in the living room. The whole family gathers to relive beautiful memories, or probably talk about the recent happenings in the city.

But what happens during summer when the sun is high up? You would agree that the fireplace could be neglected because there’s no need to sit by the crackling fire anymore. Nevertheless, cleaning and maintaining the fireplace is one great way to make it last and serve you better.

This article will discuss the different maintenance and safety tips; according to the different types of fireplaces that you can find.

Different Types of Fireplaces and How to Care for Them

The following are the top maintenance and safety tips for various types of fireplaces:

The Traditional Wood Stove

The wood fireplace is typical for its aesthetics and crackling fire from the burning wood. It is one of the most stunning features in a home. However, while the sight of burning wood and flames can add a touch of beauty to the house, maintaining it can be a daunting task.

The burning woods let out soot, ashes, and cracks of coal around the house, which could be pretty messy. And might require more work to keep it brand new.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

1. Clear out the internal areas to avoid leaving the debris of coal, wood, or ash. You can use an ash vacuum cleaner to get the job done. The regular vacuum cleaner would scatter the ash around and create more mess for you.
2. Wipe the stove and clean out the grate for remaining stains of ash and debris. Check the insides for any possible damage which needs replacement or repairs.
3. Install a carbon monoxide pipe and smoke alarm.
4. Constantly check the chimney to avoid clogging. For more details on woodstove maintenance tips, click here.

The Glass Doors Fireplace

It is more like a modernized version of the traditional wood stove. But it is covered with glass doors and screens. And popularly found in homes with kids and pets.

The glass doors and screens get littered with ashes from time to time and would need extra care and cleaning to maintain.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

1. Use a non-abrasive glass cleaner and an old newspaper to wipe the glass screens clean.
2. In case the glass cleaner doesn’t do the job, ammonia could come in handy. You can also use a razor blade to remove the stubborn smudges of ash that have stayed overtime.
3. Make sure to prevent air leaks by gluing a woven gasket on one side of the glass.

The Gas Fireplaces

These kinds of fireplaces require professional care and maintenance and should not be done by the house owner. Because of its delicate nature, any damage could be hazardous.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

1. Please turn off the fire, including the pilot light, and allow it to cool down for a while.
2. Wear your safety gloves and goggles before you start cleaning.
3. Take out the glass front as instructed in your manual. Then clean both sides with a fireplace glass cleaner. A regular glass cleaner is not advisable.
4. Wipe the louvers, and the air flows to remove any dust build-up from the unit.
5. Use a damp cloth to clean the rest of the unit and inspect the insides for any possible damage or repairs.

The Electric Fireplace

This electricity-powered centerpiece might not need so much work to maintain. There’s no ash or debris to clean up. But regular cleaning and dusting will sure keep it in the best of shape.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

1. Unscrew the front panel to access the interior. Then wipe off the dust and cobwebs with a dry or damp rag. Make sure to unplug the fireplace before you start cleaning.
2. Check the grill and the blower for damages. Clean the fan blades of the blower carefully to remove dust.
3. Replace the front panel and tighten the screws.
4. Avoid using hash solutions on the interiors and exterior surfaces to avoid corrosion.

Safety Tip

Make sure the fireplace is installed by a professional to avoid leaving exposed wires around. You should also check that the type you will be powered by the electricity supply in your area. Regular inspection by a professional is advised.

Final Words

Fireplaces are beautiful and leave the room warm and cozy during cold seasons. The degree of hotness could vary depending on the type and size that you choose. There are varieties of fireplaces as can be seen here: https://www.homestratosphere.com/types-of-fireplaces/.

Maintaining the fireplace might not necessarily need regular cleaning. But you might need to be extra careful with the parts to avoid unnecessary replacements. You might also need to consult an expert for annual inspections and repairs if you want it to last a lifetime for you.