Fireplace tips

[AlumniClub]

If your fireplace won't draw smoke up the chimney when you first start a fire, try opening a window near the fireplace. That allows air to flow into the room and up the chimney. If that doesn't work, preheat the chimney before you start a fire: Blast hot air up into the chimney using a hair dryer or, better yet, a heat gun.






GB2

[AlumniClub]

Fireplace Safety

Have your chimney inspected annually for damage and obstructions.

Clean the chimney regularly to avoid buildup, also known as creosote, that could ignite your roof.

Be sure to use a screen in front of your fireplace large enough to catch rolling logs or sparks.

Don't use flammable liquids to start the fire.

Don't use excessive amounts of paper to build a fire. It's possible to ignite soot in the chimney by over-building the fire.

Never burn charcoal in your fireplace. Burning charcoal gives off deadly amounts of carbon monoxide.

Be sure no flammable materials hang down from or decorate your mantel. A spark from your fireplace could ignite these materials and cause a fire.

Never close your damper with hot ashes in the fireplace. A closed damper can help hot ashes build up heat, causing the fire to flare up and ignite your room.

Store cool ashes in a tightly sealed metal container.


GB2

[MrKhay]

Good tips, I just don't have a fireplace.