Chimney Prep Tips for Christmas Gatherings
Holiday plans with family and friends can be ruined if fireplace and chimney maintenance are neglected. The following tips for chimney readiness before hosting Christmas gatherings can help protect the joys of the season. Fireside memories are the best, but safety should always be the first consideration. Chimney issues are rarely obvious, though they can cause sudden chaos. The chimney experts at Chimney Saver Solutions are CSIA-certified and, therefore, have the know-how to help ensure your chimney and fireplace are ready for the season’s activities.
Schedule a Chimney Inspection and Cleaning
All leading fire safety experts agree that annual chimney inspections conducted by certified chimney experts are essential to home safety. Yearly chimney cleaning is also recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends scheduling a chimney cleaning once there is 1/8” of creosote buildup in the chimney flue.
Ensure Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors are Working
Every year in the U.S., tragedy visits thousands of homes for lack of a working battery in a smoke detector or carbon monoxide detector. As enjoyable as it is to use your fireplace during the Christmas holidays, never forget that potential dangers are involved. Experts recommend monthly testing of these lifesaving devices.
Always Monitor Active Fires
Never leave a fire in your fireplace unattended. Continuous monitoring is important to avoid the potential for significant damage. Fully extinguish fires before leaving your home or going to bed. These important steps prevent the possibility that embers may reignite and cause an out-of-control fire.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Before using your fireplace, be sure there is a fire extinguisher handy. Make sure everyone in the family can operate it. A fire extinguisher can help put out small, manageable fires before they escalate into dangerous blazes.
Burn Only Seasoned Wood
It is hazardous to burn anything other than seasoned firewood in your fireplace. Properly seasoned firewood has a moisture content of 20% or less. Moisture meters are available for under $20, and they can let you know whether the wood is sufficiently dry.
Ensure a Safety Zone Around Your Fireplace
Measures should be taken to prevent accidental fires. Make sure there is a safety zone of at least 3 feet all around your fireplace. If combustible materials such as Christmas decorations and furniture are too close to a fireplace, sparks or heat can easily cause them to ignite.
Contact the Experts to Get Your Chimney Ready for Christmas Gatherings
The technicians at Chimney Saver Solutions have the expertise to spot root problems with chimneys and fireplaces. They can get your chimney ready before you host Christmas gatherings in Richmond VA and the surrounding areas. We provide services for all common and uncommon chimney issues. We fix chimney obstructions, chimney leaks, damaged flashing, and deteriorating mortar. Our chimney sweeps also inspect and clean chimneys, install fireplaces, provide partial and complete masonry rebuilds, as well as many more essential services.
Don’t delay! Contact us today to ensure that chimney and fireplace issues can’t interrupt your holiday happiness. Call us or fill out our online form to get started today.
