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Why Chimney Maintenance is the Thanksgiving Prep Most People Forget
With the holidays just around the corner, this means that the cold weather is rolling in too. For many households, this means the beginning of fireplace season. However, while many people are preoccupied with decorations and meal prep for the holidays, fireplace maintenance goes by the wayside. But this is an important thing to keep up with annually. Let’s take a closer look at fire safety when it comes to your fireplace.
The Importance of Annual Fireplace Inspections
A regular maintenance plan is important for safety as well as for an enjoyable fireplace experience while eating turkey. As a homeowner with a fireplace, you should expect to schedule an annual inspection and chimney sweep by licensed professionals. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) even strongly encourages homeowners to conduct annual cleanings to take care of creosote buildup in your fireplace and prevent your chimney from getting to the third stage of buildup.
What is Creosote and Why Is It Bad?
Creosote buildup is normal and an expected byproduct of fires in a fireplace. But, if it is left unchecked, creosote can cause strong fire smells, put you at higher risk of house fires, and maybe even expel toxic fumes unsafe to breathe in. This is why the professionals encourage annual cleanings. However, if you have more fires than the normal household, you may need to schedule cleanings more frequently but definitely before the Thanksgiving feast.
Fire Safety Tips
On top of keeping up with your annual fire inspections and sweeps, there are some other things to consider.
- Ensure that all your smoke and CO2 detectors are working. This is a simple check to ensure safety for your home.
- Make sure there aren’t pieces of furniture or other items within three feet of your fireplace especially if you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year.
- Clean excess ash and debris regularly - this can help you have a cleaner and more enjoyable fire burning experience.
- Consider installing a fire screen or fireplace doors if you don’t have them. This can help to catch sparks and minimize risk of burns.
- Make sure you don’t leave your fireplace unattended, and make sure to put out the fire completely before you leave it.
So, as you plan for your Thanksgiving Day festivities, make sure to consider your fireplace as a list item. If you know you’re in need of an annual inspection or sweep, make sure to call as soon as possible to try to get on the books before the holidays.
Twin City is Ready to Help Get Your Fireplace Ready
If you’re in the Minneapolis area, Twin City Fireplace, Masonry, and Chimney are the experts to call. We have locations in Woodbury and Edina, MN with highly trained and experienced staff to help with anything chimney related. If you’re in need of annual maintenance or repairs, it’s time to call.
Twin City specializes in the installation and repair of gas and wood-burning fireplaces for both indoor and outdoor spaces. We’re also licensed general contractors, gas fitters, and skilled masons to give you a seamless experience from the first call to the finished installation.