Fireplace Safety and Maintenance

The growing demand for fireplaces has contributed not only to the perpetuation of this means of heating, but also to the emergence of new technologies and the adaptation of fireplaces for more efficient and convenient types of fuel.

Fireplace no longer work only on wood and coal; they can also operate on gas and electricity. But whatever kind of fireplace you own, you should know that there are safety considerations to be taken into account. The fireplace may be a wonderful addition to your homes dcor, but it does involve hazards that you should be aware of.

The Use of Fireplace Screens

If your fireplace burns wood or coal, the area immediately surrounding it is exposed to fire hazard. Sparks might flow out of the fire or burning embers could roll off their grate, thus causing damage to the flooring or the rugs, with the risk of starting a devastating fire. All this can be prevented by using a simple fireplace screen -- a fender in front of the firebox opening, acting as a barrier between the burning fuel and the room.

Fireplace screens come in all sizes, shapes, and styles that you could imagine, but remember to choose one that offers effective protection. Fireplace screens are also useful in the case of gas fireplaces, as they can prevent toxic gases from entering the room. The fireplace screens are typically made of glass in this case and they seal the firebox opening; any exhaust gases can be evacuated through the vents on the wall or in the ceiling.

Basic Maintenance

If you suspect there are any problems with your fireplace, you should have a professional inspect it. There are, however, many little things that you can do regularly in order to avoid such problems and to ensure that your fireplace works perfectly all the time. For instance, you can check the chimney cap from time to time and replace it as soon as you notice any damage. Use a flashlight to check for crumbling mortar or loose bricks inside the chimney. If you notice any creosote buildup in the chimney, have it cleaned immediately. The soot layer should also be checked constantly.

Additional Guidelines

You should avoid using vacuum cleaners inside the firebox, even if you can't see anything burning. It is known that coals stay hot for a long time after a fire -- hot enough to start another fire. Too much smoke coming out of the fireplace might indicate that there is something wrong with the draft; if opening the damper doesnt solve the problem, you should seek professional advice. None of these procedures require any special training; they are simple things that anyone can do, to make sure it is safe to go on using the fireplace.

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