Along with the joys of using a fireplace come some misconceptions about chimney maintenance and proper use. Some of these misconceptions are fairly innocuous, but others can impact the safety and efficiency of your fireplace system.
With decades of experience, we love bringing light to fireplaces – both literally and figuratively. Here are a few myths we’ve heard – and some clarifications to go with them. Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out.
Myth: Chimneys That Aren’t Used Often Don’t Need to Be Swept
A frequent misconception is that a chimney that’s not used much doesn’t need to be swept or maintained – at least not every year. After all, there haven’t been many fires to make it dirty, right? While this seems like a reasonable line of argument, there’s a little more to this story than dirt and soot. It’s true that less fireplace use can reduce the amount of creosote buildup, but neglecting chimney sweeping altogether is a mistake.
Even sporadic use of a fireplace can result in creosote accumulation – and since creosote is a highly combustible material, it necessitates routine removal. Also, creosote isn’t the only thing that can build up in a chimney. If animals nest in your flue or debris finds its way inside (both common events for unused chimneys), these will also need to be swept out for the chimney to remain safe to use.
Another task that’s important regardless of level of use is scheduling an annual inspection. Aside from the need for sweeping, yearly inspections can also reveal repair needs in the chimney structure or corrosion in its components. After all, even if you aren’t lighting fires, your system continues to be exposed to the elements. Inspections help you catch potential issues early, which can save significant hassles and costs in the future.
Myth: Fireplace Ashes Can Be Ignored in the Winter
Since you’re using it more often in winter, it may seem harmless to leave the ashes from your fires in the firebox. There’s actually a little truth to this myth – leaving a thin layer of ash can make later fires easier to start. But too thick a layer of ash can block the airflow your fires need to burn efficiently. Oxygen is vital for combustion, so too much ash will result in struggling, smoky fires that don’t give you the heat you want.
Ashes can also hide hot embers for days after a fire. Safely removing them using appropriate tools to a fireproof container reduces the risk of accidental fires.
Myth: Most Anything Can Be Burned in Your Fireplace
If something fits, does it really hurt to toss it in? This time of year especially, with all those cardboard boxes from your kids’ new toys, all that discarded wrapping paper, and lots of paper plates from your holiday parties, tossing everything in fire may seem like quick and easy trash disposal. In addition, many people assume it’s fine to burn treated wood or various paper products in their fireplaces.
This is not the case. In fact, doing so can release toxic fumes into your home, damage your chimney, and contribute to creosote buildup. Excessive heat and smoke are also dangers.
Stick to burning only seasoned woods in your fireplace. There are some clues that firewood is dry enough to use: visible signs and cracks, lighter color and weight, and a hollow sound when struck. You could also use a moisture meter – if it reads around 15-25%, you should be all good. Using well-seasoned wood will generate hot, clean fires.
Myth: Chimney Repairs Need to Wait Until Spring
Another misconception is that chimney repairs can’t be done in winter, when cold weather and the elements are prohibitive. This is simply not true. While winter weather can present some challenges, most chimney companies continue to offer repairs and maintenance throughout the season. In fact, it’s best to address most chimney issues sooner rather than later, since it eliminates time in which the issues could be exacerbated.
If you’ve noted a crack, a damaged chimney cap, or a suspicious odor, the best course of action is to reach out and gain a professional recommendation. A remedy may be more doable than you think, and you won’t have the concern weighing on your mind throughout the winter.
Myth: Fireplaces Just Aren’t Efficient
Some fireplaces are more efficient than others, but if you have concerns about your fireplace’s efficiency, there are steps you can take to boost it. For instance, older, open fireplaces do tend to lose heat through the chimney – but having a fireplace insert can open new worlds of efficiency and convenient features. Inserts are self-contained units that are engineered to promote efficient combustion and preserve heat…and they do it beautifully!
Myth: A Chimney Cap Isn’t Important
A small, often overlooked component of a chimney system is the chimney cap. It’s often viewed as unnecessary as long as the chimney is doing its job – but the chimney cap is small, but mighty. It plays a crucial role in preventing debris and neighborhood critters from entering your chimney, and adds a layer of protection against damaging moisture and downdrafts.
Trust Owens Chimney for Quality Services
If some issues surrounding your chimney seem foggy, never fear. With decades of reliable service in the industry, we’ll help you see your fireplace and chimney clearly, and to make the best possible decisions for its maintenance, use, and care. Call today or book online with us to get started.