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Did you know a fireplace can help you save on energy bills and give you an alternative heat source if the power goes out?
While not every home has a fireplace these days, many of them do. And in addition to helping to keep your home nice and toasty in the wintertime, a fireplace can add an esthetic charm to your living room or den.
But you need to maintain and clean it to get the best results. Do you know what it takes to take care of wood burning fireplaces?
Continue reading for suggestions to help you care for your wood burning fireplace.
Get Your Chimney Swept
If you have a wood burning fireplace, you must get the chimney swept periodically. It’s good to do it once annually — such as before the winter season arrives — to remove debris, soot, and any creosote that has built up.
So, if you have a wood fireplace, book an appointment with a certified chimney sweep to prepare your fireplace for the burning season.
That’s not to say you can only use the fireplace in the fall and winter. You may use a fireplace to take the chill out of the air other times of the year as well.
Chimney cleaning is vital. So, consider the importance of removing soot, debris, and creosote. Failing to do will jeopardize the safe operation of your fireplace and reduce its performance.
Inspect Chimney for Damage
It’s a good idea to have your chimney checked for any damage. Loose bricks, missing mortar, or cracks could suggest issues with the structure. If there are any issues, have a professional fix them before using your fireplace.
Any damage will only worsen over time if it’s not addressed as soon as possible. Correct problems as part of the annual maintenance appointment.
Check the Cap
Your chimney has a cap that helps keep the elements and animals from getting inside. It makes sense to get the wire-mesh cap checked annually. If there are signs of damage, you should get the cap replaced.
It’s not in your best interests to delay replacing a damaged cap since doing so can lead to problems that hit you in the wallet. You can avoid such issues by ensuring your chimney cap is in good repair.
Remove the Ashes
Cleaning a wood fireplace also involves removing the ashes from the firebox. You can make things easier by using an ash vacuum designed to handle ashes that have cooled down.
But ensure that there are no live embers. You don’t want to dump the ashes outside someplace and accidentally start a fire.
After you’ve cleaned out the firebox, start stacking seasoned wood in the fireplace. That means you’ll be ready to start a fire when the time comes.
Put Fireplace Doors in Place
An important safety feature for your wood burning fireplace is the screen. It keeps hot embers from exiting the firebox, landing in your living space, and igniting in your living room or den.
That’s a nightmare scenario you’ll want to avoid — and you can with the right equipment. Whether you have glass fireplace doors or a fireplace screen, you’ll want to ensure it’s in place when the wood burning fireplace is in use.
Only Burn Seasoned Wood
If you want to be safer, get better heat, and make wood fireplace maintenance easier, only burn seasoned wood in your fireplace.
Green wood is another term for freshly cut wood that has a high water content. Such wood isn’t suitable for burning until it’s been given sufficient time to dry.
Before burning wood, it should be split, stacked, covered, and allowed to dry for half a year or longer. Hardwood takes longer to dry than softwood.
If you try to burn green wood, it’ll be hard to burn and produce little heat. You’ll be frustrated when the wood does more sizzling than burning. If you want to create a cozy environment, you won’t be able to with green wood.
Another problem with using unseasoned or green wood is that it will produce more creosote. That could boost the odds of a chimney fire. And a chimney fire can quickly get out of control and spread to your entire house.
If you burn unseasoned wood and your chimney becomes full of creosote, the creosote buildup will be challenging to clean up. It will take a professional chimney sweep more time and effort than you think.
It’s not worth your while to burn green wood for these and other reasons. Either buy your wood early enough for it to dry by winter or purchase from suppliers who sell seasoned wood ready to burn.
Wood Burning Fireplaces Are Worth the Investment
A wood burning fireplace is an asset in any home. If you use yours, you must maintain and repair it as needed to ensure top performance. But if your home doesn’t have one, you can install one.
At Dreifuss Fireplaces, we’ve been offering high-quality fireplace installation services since 1876. Whether you want a traditional fireplace, gas fireplace, or electric fireplace in PA or NJ, we have you covered.
And, yes, we can install a traditional or modern fireplace in your home. There are many options, so finding something that fits your decor won’t be an issue.
You can count on us for all your wood burning fireplaces needs. For answers to your questions or to book an appointment, get in touch. You can also get a free estimate for whatever work you’re considering. We’re here to help – contact Dreifuss today!
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What You Need to Know About Rating Plates for Fireplaces
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Understanding Rating Plates for Fireplaces Rating plates for fireplaces are integral components that convey crucial information concerning safety, installation prerequisites, and adherence to regulations. These plates encompass detailed guidelines and material specifications that ascertain the appropriate operation and upkeep of fireplaces. They serve a pivotal function in the scrutiny, authentication, and labeling procedures. Rating plates uphold the most stringent industry norms to ensure the safety and effectiveness of fireplace installations. What are Rating Plates? Rating plates, which are affixed to fireplaces, serve as identification labels. They offer vital information regarding the specifications and compliance of the unit. These plates are typically positioned in easily accessible locations on the fireplace, such as near the control panel or at the rear of the unit. By including details such as the model number, serial number, and safety certifications, rating plates play a pivotal role in ensuring that the fireplace adheres to regulatory standards. In instances where maintenance or repair is required, this information becomes crucial for technicians to effectively address any issues. Furthermore, rating plates aid homeowners in comprehending the capacity and efficiency of their fireplace for optimal utilization. Why Rating Plates are Important Rating plates play a crucial role in guaranteeing the safety and regulatory compliance of fireplaces according to industry standards. They offer essential information that enables accurate labeling and certification, which are vital for regular inspections and upkeep. Ensuring Safety and Compliance The primary function of rating plates on fireplaces is to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. These rating plates provide essential information regarding the fireplace’s specifications, including its heat output capacity and the materials utilized in its construction. Regular inspections and certification play a vital role in verifying that the fireplace continually meets safety standards. Homeowners are advised to schedule routine maintenance checks to guarantee that their fireplace operates correctly and does not pose any fire hazards. By adhering to these guidelines and remaining proactive in maintenance efforts, individuals can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of their fireplace with peace of mind. Types of Rating Plates There are various categories of rating plates accessible, each fulfilling distinct classifications and functionalities aimed at offering precise details about fireplaces. Overview of Different Types The various types of rating plates vary based on their classification, design, and the specific specifications they provide. Some rating plates, such as the model number plate, are primarily focused on identifying the specific model of the fireplace unit. This offers critical details for maintenance and replacement parts. Conversely, certification plates specifically denote compliance with safety standards and regulations. They ensure that the fireplace adheres to necessary requirements. Installation plates delineate essential information like clearances, fuel specifications, and venting requirements to facilitate proper installation. Each form of rating plate serves a distinct purpose, collectively providing a comprehensive overview of the fireplace’s specifications and safety features. What Information is Included on Rating Plates Rating plates contain a variety of essential information, including specifications, ratings, manufacturer details, serial number, model number, warnings, and precautions. Key Details to Look For When analyzing rating plates, it is important to pay attention to key details. This includes specifications, ratings, manufacturer information, and any warnings or precautions. Specifications listed on rating plates offer vital information regarding the operational limits and capabilities of the equipment. This includes voltage, current, and power ratings. These specifics are essential to ensure that the equipment is utilized within safe operating conditions, reducing the risk of overloading or damage. Manufacturer information included on rating plates provides valuable insights into the origin and quality of the product. This information can be beneficial for maintenance, repair, and warranty claims. Furthermore, warnings or precautions listed on rating plates offer critical safety guidelines. These warnings inform users about potential hazards and necessary precautions to prevent accidents or injuries. How to Read and Interpret Rating Plates Understanding how to read and interpret rating plates necessitates recognizing diverse codes and symbols. This is coupled with strict adherence to the instructions furnished for the safe operation and maintenance. Understanding the Codes and Symbols The codes and symbols displayed on rating plates serve as a standardized method for conveying crucial information regarding the specifications and requirements of the fireplace. It is imperative for both homeowners and technicians to have a comprehensive understanding of these codes and symbols. They can reveal essential details such as the fireplace’s model number, electrical specifications, safety certifications, and manufacturing date. By accurately interpreting these codes, individuals can ensure the correct and safe utilization of the fireplace. For instance, awareness of the BTU rating of the fireplace enables users to determine the suitable size of the room for its installation. Understanding the voltage requirements helps in averting potential electrical risks. Proficiency in decoding these codes and symbols is vital for upholding the functionality and safety standards of the fireplace. Maintaining and Updating Rating Plates It is imperative to uphold the maintenance and updating of rating plates to guarantee the endurance and longevity of fireplace installations. Consistent upkeep and timely revisions play a pivotal role in addressing any potential issues that may arise. This ensures that the information depicted on the rating plates remains accurate and pertinent. When and How to Make Changes Modifications to
The Pros and Cons of Switching Fireplace Fuel Types
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