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Choosing the Best Wood for Igniting Indoor Fireplaces

Placing wood into wood-burning fireplace to maintain the flame

During the coldest and snowiest days of winter, there is no better place to be than at home relaxing in front of a wood-burning fireplace. Besides being a source of heat, fireplaces bring another sense of comforting warmth to your home. Although starting a fire can be a quick and easy process, it is important to follow all safety precautions and guidelines. When you use the best quality and most suitable kind of wood, you can ensure you are able to create a fire of desired size and duration. Read on to learn more about the most compatible types of wood for wood-burning fireplaces.

Steps to Take Before Starting a Fire

Before lighting your fireplace, it is important to make sure that it is properly set up and ready to be safely used. To keep your wood-burning fireplace or stove running smoothly for years to come, you must practice routine maintenance and cleaning. While the fire is burning, it is essential to check that all ventilation is properly functioning to filter out any smoke or toxins. Besides setting up the fireplace itself, it is important to also prep the surrounding area by removing any objects within reach of flames or sparks. If you are unsure if your fireplace is ready to be used, it is always a good idea to consult a professional. New England Hearth & Home offers professional support for fireplace installation and repairs, as well as annual inspections. For a full list of our services, visit our website.

Choosing the Right Type of Wood for Your Fireplace or Stove

There is nothing that can destroy the relaxation of a wood-burning fireplace faster than the sudden build-up of heavy smoke or obnoxious odors. To avoid any complications, selecting the right type of wood to burn is crucial. Wood is generally categorized between hardwood and softwood, and each subsection comes with their own properties. When looking for firewood, you want to find a type that has the ability to maintain high temperatures and burn entirely at a steady pace. By burning wood with these characteristics, you can keep a hotter and more durable flame.

Seasoned Firewood

The best type of wood to use for starting a fireplace or outdoor pit Is wood that has been completely drained of all moisture. If you attempt to start a fire by using wood from a freshly cut tree, you will soon be encountered by clouds of heavy smoke. When buying firewood, you want to keep an eye out for those that have been previously seasoned. By definition, seasoned firewood is wood that has already been dried out of any remaining moisture before becoming available for purchase. After being harvested, firewood is usually placed in a hot kiln for high-speed drying to remove any remaining water. Seasoning firewood is also helpful for the environment by removing any mold, mildew, or toxic spores that could have otherwise been released into the atmosphere.

Hardwood

Hardwood is the best type of firewood to choose when looking for top quality. Woods, such as birch, hickory, oak, and ash, are a household favorite for their ability to burn evenly for an extended period of time. Although hardwoods tend to be more expensive, they show their worth in the dazzling, dancing flames they create.

Softwood

If price is your main concern, softwood is a cheaper alternative that offers a similar result. Unlike hardwoods, though, softwoods tend to burn through quicker and require more maintenance. Popular examples of softwood used for indoor lighting fireplaces include those that came from cedar, pine, spruce, fir, and poplar trees. Due to their delicate nature, these branches can be more difficult to manage and leave a messier residue.

Contact Us for Wood-Burning Fireplace or Stove Installation, Maintenance, & Inspection in Canton, MA

If you are interested in installing a wood-burning fireplace or stove in your home, but are looking for more information, fill out our contact form to receive a free estimate. At New England Hearth & Home, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide the best products and services to our customers. To receive more information, visit our website or give us a call at (781) 562-0771.

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How to Start a Fire in Your Gas Fireplace or Stove

Turning on gas fireplace using control panel remote

There is no feeling quite like relaxing in front of a cozy fireplace on the coldest winter nights. Adding a fireplace into your home adds an extra sense of comfort and  a touch of classic design. Many families prefer installing a gas fireplace over other styles due to their low energy cost, as well as how easy they are to clean and maintain. To learn more about the different methods of properly starting a fire in your gas stove or fireplace, read on.

Steps to Take Before Turning On Your Gas Fireplace

Before attempting to start a fire in your gas stove or fireplace, it is important to properly prepare the room to keep your home safe. All flammable objects, materials, and wall hangings must be placed at least 3 feet away from the appliance to avoid a potential fire catching. In the case of a fire, you want to be sure that all of your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are working. Finally, and most importantly, you must make sure that all vents are opened and properly functioning to allow any toxins or smoke to escape your chimney. If you have not used your fireplace in an extended period of time and are not sure if it is safe to light, read our blog to learn the best steps to take, or contact us for a consultation. New England Hearth & Home offers expert annual inspections to catch any potential hazards and make any necessary repairs.

Method One: Using a Control Panel to Start Your Gas Fireplace

When operating a control panel to start up your gas fireplace or stove, the main idea is to begin by igniting the pilot light. When looking at the panel, there will be three choices; “on,” “off,” and “pilot.” To begin lighting, turn the knob towards the “pilot” position, which will start the flow of gas to your fireplace. Next, hold down the ignition button to light the flame. If the flame is continuing to burn after 30 seconds, you may release the button, turn the knob into the “on” position, and enjoy the warm glow. Depending on how long it has been since you last used your fireplace, it may take several attempts to press on the ignition button before success.

Method Two: Igniting Your Gas Fireplace or Stove with a Key Valve

Certain models of gas fireplaces will include a decorate slot and hex key that allows for simple ignition. Usually, the valve is located immediately next to your fireplace, or directly underneath on the floor. To begin, use a long lighter or lit match to ignite the burner while simultaneously turning the key into the slot. You should hear the hiss of gas as it begins to flow to your fireplace. Once the pilot light is lit, you can remove the light or match and use the hex key to control the height of the flames to your desire.

Method Three: Operating a Wall Switch to Light Your Gas Fireplace

More modern styles of gas fireplaces or stoves will include the installation of a wall switch or remote to control your appliance. Being the most simple and straightforward of all the methods, to start your fireplace you only need to follow the directional buttons on your control. You should be able to turn your fireplace on or off and adjust the height of the flames. Since these controls often are connected to your home’s main power supply, please note your fireplace will not work if there is a power outage.

What to Do If Your Gas Fireplace Doesn’t Start

There can be a number of reasons why you might be unsuccessful while trying to ignite your gas fireplace or stove. One of the more common problems is that the pilot light might be malfunctioning. You could also be running too much power through your circuit, causing a lack of energy running through your fireplace. In either of these cases, you might have to attempt to light it manually, or call a professional for further assistance. New England Hearth & Home offers year-round appointments for fireplace inspections, cleaning services, and repairs. Visit our website to learn more about our fireplace troubleshooting services and how to keep your fireplace running safely.

Contact Us for Gas Fireplace Maintenance, Installation, & Removal in Canton, MA

Taking the time to properly ignite a fire in your gas fireplace or stove is important for keeping it running safely and smoothly for many years to come. Due to their simple maintenance and low energy cost, gas fireplaces are very popular among households. By following these steps to start a fire in your appliance, you can enjoy even the coldest nights by staying toasty in your home. Call us today at (781) 562-0771 if you are looking to install a new gas fireplace or stove into your home, or if you are looking to clean your current appliance.

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Fireplace Design Ideas for 2022

What’s better on a cold winter night than a cozy fireplace? There’s something about the ambiance that comes with a fire that simply can’t be matched. Fireplaces have been used in homes for almost as long as homes have existed! For the longest time, they were actually the only source of heat and provided a cooking surface. In 2022, a fireplace is less of a necessity and more of a design choice. Consider implementing some of these trendy design ideas to bring your fireplace into the modern age. 

Statement Mantle 

Fireplace mantles used to only go as high as they needed to for a functional fireplace, but why not take it a bit further? Extending the mantle all the way to the ceiling is a gorgeous way to create a focal point in any room. The continuous mantle makes the space feel larger and more luxurious than a smaller mantle would in the same space. This type of design looks especially stunning when timeless marble slabs are used. 

Natural Stone 

Natural stone is a popular choice for mantle materials as we head into 2022. Stick to the lighter-colored stones to maintain a modern, airy feel. Natural stone elements are the perfect way to make the home feel cozy without compromising on style. As an added bonus, natural stone matches everything! 

Keep it Minimal 

Hectic fireplace design is a thing of the past. Instead of an intricate tile pattern, consider a less is more approach for your fireplace design. Using simple materials in a basic pattern allows the fire itself to be the statement piece. A minimalistic fireplace that features crisp edges, neutral tones, and a mantel that goes to the ceiling is going to Wow anyone who enters the home. 

Functional Placement 

If you don’t have a lot of space for a huge, wood-burning fireplace, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some flames. Gas fireplaces can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit into just about any space. Installing a gas fireplace right below your mounted flat-screen TV is just one example of adding a fireplace without taking up too much space. The gas fireplace itself will only take up a small area of the wall below the TV, but the beauty and functionality it brings will be immeasurable! 

Learn More About Fireplace Design & Get a Quote

Keeping your fireplace trendy in 2022 is easier than you think. Rather you’re trying to rework your current design and bring it into the modern age or add a brand-new fireplace to your home, just trust the process! Contact New England Hearth & Home to schedule a consultation with a fireplace design expert. Our team can help you decide what fireplace design options are the best fit for the current trends and your personal style all at the same time. 

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Our Best Fireplace Tips for Winter

It’s officially winter, and that means it’s peak fireplace season! If you don’t have much experience using your fireplace yet, don’t fear! We’ve put together a mini guide on how to get the most out of your fireplace this season, and also stay safe while you do it! Your fireplace is a great way to stay cozy all winter, so keep reading and learn how to become a master fire keeper!

Close The Chimney Flue When You’re Done

Make sure once the fire is out that you close your flue to avoid any cold air coming into your home, or letting out the warm air you just produced with your fire.

Pre-Chop Your Firewood

Dry wood burns the best, so it’s always best to chop as much firewood ahead of time and store it in a warm and dry place so it’s ready to burn at a moments notice. Always make sure that your firewood is stacked away from any flammable materials, and at least 2 1/2 feet high. The best way to do this is to use a firewood rack or start stacking them in between walls.

Clean it Regularly

While you probably had your fireplace cleaned at the beginning of the season, it isn’t a one time thing! Make sure after every few fires you take a look at your flue to make sure there isn’t any soot or creosote building up which can be a hazard to you or your chimney.

Watch Your Fires Closely

As your fires burn, please don’t leave them unattended, even if they are small and you’re letting them die out. You never know what nearby items might fly into the fire and cause it to flare up.

Have The Right Tools on Hand

Make sure you have access to all the right fireplace tools, such as pokers, shovels, tongs and brooms. Again, having these tools readily available is crucial in case you need to clear out your fireplace or chimney (or perform some other maintenance on them). If you don’t have the right tool for the task at-hand, then you could risk causing additional damage to your chimney and/or fireplace. There are also times when it may be safer just to let a fire burn itself out.

 

Contact New England Hearth & Home

If you’re thinking about adding a fireplace to your home this season, please get in touch with our team of experts. We can guide you through the process of picking out the perfect fireplace for you and your home, including our selection of electric, gas and traditional fireplaces. Give us a call at (781)562-0771 or contact us here for more information.