From changing the furnace filter to cleaning out the gutters, there’s no shortage of work to do around the house each fall. But one job that can be easy to overlook is getting the fireplace ready for the colder months ahead.
As temperatures drop and folks begin spending more time indoors, fireplaces are once again becoming a go-to source of warmth and comfort in homes. But after sitting unused through the warmer months, a fireplace shouldn’t simply be turned on at the first sign of cold weather.
“Now is a good time for homeowners to make sure their fireplace is clean, properly maintained and ready to be used safely throughout the season,” said Garry Scott, vice president of marketing at Napoleon, North America’s largest privately owned manufacturer of quality fireplaces, grills, heating and cooling products.
“A little preparation before that first fire can help prevent problems later and give you peace of mind when you’re using your fireplace throughout the colder months.”
Napoleon recommends five things that homeowners should keep in mind before firing up their fireplace this fall, including:
- Give your fireplace a once-over – Before the first fire of the season, take a close look at the fireplace and the area around it. For wood-burning fireplaces, that means checking the firebox and having the chimney inspected and cleaned as needed to remove creosote and other buildup. Gas fireplaces should also be regularly inspected and serviced by a qualified professional to make sure they’re operating properly.
- Clear the area around your fireplace – It’s easy for furniture, blankets, decorations and other household items to make their way closer to the fireplace when it isn’t being used. Before turning it on, clear the surrounding area and keep anything that could catch fire a safe distance away. Vents and openings should also be kept free of dust, debris and other obstructions.
- Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms – The start of fireplace season is also a good time to test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms throughout the home and replace batteries or units when needed. Homeowners should also make sure everyone in the household knows what to do and how to get out safely in the event of a fire.
- Don’t forget about electric fireplaces – Electric fireplaces don’t burn fuel or require a chimney, but they should still get a quick check before being used regularly again. Inspect the cord and plug for signs of wear or damage, clear away any dust that may have accumulated around air inlets and outlets and make sure nothing is blocking the unit. As with any fireplace, homeowners should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation and maintenance.
“Fireplaces are often at the heart of the home during the colder months, so you want to know yours is ready before you need it,” says Scott. “Whether you have wood, gas or electric, regular maintenance and following the manufacturer’s instructions are simple steps that can help you enjoy your fireplace safely all season long.”
Taking a few minutes to prepare now means homeowners can spend less time worrying about their fireplace when the temperature drops and more time enjoying the warmth and comfort it brings to the home.
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