Holiday Fireplace Maintenance

Christmas is around the corner, in fact just a week away! Are you thinking of a pleasant evening gathered around the glow of your fireplace sharing memories with family and friends of the years past? Whether or not your fireplace is gas-burning or wood burning there are a few safety checks that will ensure a season of enjoyment.

For all fireplaces take a minute to remove the balloon that you may have used to seal the chimney to keep cool air in the house over the summer.

Easy Steps to Maintain Gas Fireplaces

If you enjoy a low-maintenance gas fireplace begin at the glass doors. Take a minute to examine them for cracks in the glass. Did you clean the glass thoroughly after the last winter fire? Use a homemade vinegar solution to clean the glass. Steer away from ammonia based products that are flammable. Make sure the latch closes and opens freely. Check the hinges for any damage that will prevent them from swinging the doors in and out freely.

Are your gas logs in the correct position? Now, turn on the gas at the shut-off valve and test the igniter.  Light the fire and check for clogged burner holes. Turn off the fire and clear the burner holes using a pin or needle to clear the debris. Before you button up your project clean any debris inside the fireplace and around the vents of the heat exchanger. If necessary reposition the gas logs correctly.

Wood Burning Fireplaces are a Little More Work

Wood burning fireplaces are a little more labor intensive. Much of the inspection can be done from the ground using a pair of binoculars. Is your chimney cap in good repair and free of debris? Check to make sure all tree branches are cut back away from the chimney. If necessary call a tree trimming service to clear the area. The chimney should be plumb against the house and not leaning; roof flashing should be tight against the chimney.

Next move inside and check out the flue to make sure that it is opening and closing properly. Check the seal on the flue damper; if your damper is not sealing tightly you will lose heat from your home. Next use a flashlight and check up the flue for bird or other animal nests. You should see daylight at the top of the chimney.

Inspect the fireplace firebox, hearth and surround for damaged bricks or mortar. Damage to the firebox is serious and should be inspected and repaired by a professional before the fireplace is used.  If you find any signs of moisture in the firebox, the cap may be damaged.

Hope these quick tips help you keep your fireplace in good working order so that you can enjoy a season of relaxing fires.

*Disclaimer: Any suggestions, mentions, or links to vendors, specialists, service providers, or others are provided only to be a helpful source of information or research to the consumer and are not guaranteed by or associated with Jason Gracey or anyone working for Great Houston Properties, LLC. These resources should be researched by the consumer and if chosen, Great Houston Properties, LLC and Jason Gracey do not warranty or guarantee the results or work, estimates or consults, and must be held harmless in the event of a dispute. Thank you.