Fall into Winter Heat Cleaning

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

The bright colorful changes on the tips of the trees signifies the change of the season. The falling leaves in Fall are so pretty but make a mess. The crackling sound from the wood in our fireplaces and wood/pellet stoves confirms the change in temperatures. Fireplaces and pellet stoves can really make a mess, of everything.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there has been a significant reduction of houses sold in recent years that has a fireplace. However, during the winter months, fireplaces and wood/pellet stoves are used greatly to heat many homes in our neighborhoods and across America which is why we want to remind everyone how important it is to maintain and properly operate your stoves and fireplaces.

In the United States, behind kitchen fires, the 2nd leading cause of home fires are from heating systems. Fireplaces and Wood/pellet stoves are a part of those statistics. Preventative maintenance and annually inspections are very important. A yearly chimney sweep by a professional is a must! An inspection of the exterior stone, mortar and piping is also of extream importance. Also, check your windows and door seals for drafts. It is amazing the amount of heat that can be lost due to cracks or gaps. Proper maintenance will help keep your heating system operating safely and you will get the best return of warmth.

Before enjoying your fireplace, correctly dispose of ashes. One inch of ash will cause a fire to make more smoke. It's important to never place ash in a garbage bin indoors/or out. To properly clean and dispose of ash, you have to make sure it is cooled before shoveling it into a metal container with a lid. Also, remember to never store it near your home or firewood. 

Consider the type of wood you are burning and where it is being stored. Green or young wood have higher moister content and cause a lot of smoke and more build up of creosote. https://www.doctorflue.com/blog/what-is-creosote/ It's best to use seasoned or dried wood  that has been split for a safer fire. Storing your firewood in a dry place is also something to remember either a wood shed or garage to avoid moister. 

A few safety tips to remember: 

• Always have a fire extinguisher near your fireplace/stove.
• Start fire properly.
• Install a chimney cap.
• Never store matches, lighters, or other fire starters within 3ft of the wood-stove or fireplace.
• Keep area clear of flammable items; Drapes, carpet, furniture and newspaper ext.
• Never overload a fire or burn other debris.
• Supervise small children and pets.
• Extinguish fire before bed. 

A small flame can get out of control within 30 seconds. So it's very important to be sure all smoke/ carbon monoxide detectors are working and everyone knows your homes fire escape plan.

We understand how damaging chimney fires can be to your home. If you ever experience a home fire, and need some help and guidance, give us a call (360)703-3884. 

Specializing in Fire & Water-Cleanup & Restoration. SERVPRO of Longview/kelso is locally owned and operated.

We're always ready to help!