Did you know that more than 3,000 Americans die because of fires each year?
If you don’t do fireplace cleaning regularly, it can cause a fire to break out in your home. Not only will you have to pay a hefty sum for the damages, but the incident could also cause injuries to you or your family.
The good news is there are ways to make sure you clean your fireplace properly. Now that winter is here, we’ll go into more detail below!
- Use a Vacuum or Small Broom Regularly
Using a vacuum or small broom regularly in cleaning your fireplace is important. It will help to prevent dust and dirt from building up and contributing to unsightly soot accumulation.
Start by using a small, handheld vacuum fitted with a soft brush attachment to get rid of the dirt and dust. Make sure to gently move the brush attachment to avoid scratching the surface of the fireplace or damaging the grates.
Once you remove all the visible debris, use a small, soft-bristled broom for any debris that may have fallen into inaccessible places.
- Check the Conditions of the Bricks and Mortar Regularly
Use a flashlight to inspect your firebox. Look for any cracks and areas of crumbling, as this can cause smoke to escape and be potentially dangerous. If you see any damage, contact a professional right away.
During your routine inspections, you should also check for debris and soot built up on bricks and mortar. Be sure to wear protective gloves and use a vacuum and brush to dislodge any buildup.
- Hire Professionals for Chimney and Flue Inspection
You should always hire professional chimney cleaning services to inspect your chimney and flue. Professionals have the tools and knowledge to safely clean and inspect the chimney and flues. They will make sure that they are free of creosote, debris, and blockages that can cause smoke and carbon monoxide to accumulate in the home.
Additionally, professionals can detect and fix any cracks in the chimney. It prevents them from causing smoke and heat to escape into the house, which can pose health and safety hazards.
- Close the Damper
A damper blocks the warm air in a house from escaping up the chimney. Not closing it can mean a drastic loss in energy efficiency. Closing the damper is also important to keep the interior of the home warm, as well as reduce the risk of fire and smoke inhalation.
- Inspect the Firebox and Grate
Taking the time to inspect the firebox and grate plays an important role in fireplace safety. It safeguards the family and protects the integrity of the fireplace.
You should check for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion within the firebox, as well as the grate. If you notice a need for repairs—or if the grate is damaged beyond easy repair, then you should purchase a new grate as soon as possible.
Do These Tips on Your Next Fireplace Cleaning
Fireplace cleaning should be done regularly to ensure the safety of any home. Employing the mentioned tips will help keep a household safe and happy.
Taking the time to tend to the fireplace is worth it for the peace of mind it will bring. So reach for a vacuum, scraper, and brush, and remember that cleanliness is next to safety.
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