Wood burning fireplaces offer several advantages compared to natural gas fireplaces. They are safer to use, produce more heat, offer a pleasant scent and a crackling sound, and promote a more relaxing environment. However, if you have a wood burning fireplace, you'll need to clean it regularly to prevent the accumulation of ash, soot and other debris. Here are 10 tips on how to clean and maintain your wood burning fireplace.
It is recommended to clean the chimney after each use. If you plan to use your fireplace regularly starting in the fall, you should try to have it cleaned in late summer. Cleaning the firewood burning area of the fireplace will help maximize the quality of each burn. Regular sweeping or vacuuming is also recommended.
Finish cleaning the combustion chamber and use the shop vacuum to clean it; be sure to vacuum the damper and smoke tray area as well. Don't forget to clean the fireplace screen and fire tools while cleaning around the chimney. If you don't feel comfortable climbing to your roof, use this alternative method to clean the chimney. Once you've packed your bags and climbed the ladder, clean any spots you didn't see at the bottom of the chimney with the small brush. You should also clean the damper with a strong wire brush and then set it aside so that you can clean the other parts of the chimney. We'll also show you how to inspect a chimney for damage, tips for removing creosote buildup, and what you should know about cleaning a chimney.
Repeat this step with an additional pipe to go further down the chimney until you have cleaned the entire length of the chimney. Before starting to clean the chimney, it is necessary to remove the damper so that it does not obstruct the passage of the chimney brush. But even if you're not lighting a fire as often, experts say it's a good idea to inspect and clean your chimney regularly, and there's no better time than fall, before winter sets in. A good cleaning every season should be enough, but it is best to check for creosote dust accumulation, since at about six millimeters it should be cleaned. Maintaining your wood burning fireplace is essential for safety reasons and for optimal performance. Cleaning your chimney after each use is recommended but not mandatory.
However, it is important to inspect and clean your chimney at least once a year if you have creosote glaze. If you don't feel comfortable climbing up on your roof, use an alternative method for cleaning your chimney. Make sure to inspect your chimney for damage and remove any creosote buildup before winter sets in.
