Fireplaces need to properly be taken care of when shutting them down for the warmer months. Whether you have a wood burning fireplace or gas, there are steps you need to take to keep yours last longer and staying in good condition!
Wood Burning Fireplace
Clean Up Any Ash
It is super essential to make sure you clean out remaining ash and soot that is in the fireplace. It keeps the air quality in good shape and keep the fireplace looking its best. Make sure to close the damper after you clean the ask out. By doing this, it stops air from getting into your house and stops any extra ask from blowing around from wind.
Closing the Damper
Most people do not need to use their fireplace after April or so, especially in Massachusetts. That being said, you don’t need the damper to stay open. Shutting the damper will help stop drafts, water leaking on rainy days and will keep away backyard animals. This can also save on energy costs by avoiding any air-conditioning from leaking out.
Scheduling a Chimney Cleaning or Fireplace Inspection
A lot of people are unaware that the prime time to schedule a chimney cleaning is during the Spring. It is usually more convenient because there are fewer appointments for the professionals in the spring. Getting your chimney cleaned gets rid of a lot soot buildup that’s in the flue. When a professional comes to your home for the inspection, they’ll check the flue and chimney and to look for any leaks or cracks. They’ll also make sure that damper and chimney cap are all set.
Gas Fireplace
Clean the Glass Panel
If you have a fireplace with a glass panels, you should be cleaning it regularly. Remove the glass, then use a cleaner that is recommended for fireplace glass. For gas fireplace owners with glass doors, the same type of thing recommended. Use a cloth and use a cleaner that doesn’t have ammonia in it.
Brush off Soot
Brushing off soot with a clean and dry paintbrush is an easy way to get rid of any remaining. Get as much as you can out!
Contact Us
Contact New England Hearth & Home about questions involving your fireplace. We are happy to provide you with answers on how to make your fireplace ready to go through the spring and summer seasons. Give us a call or fill out our contact form!