How to Avoid Fireplace Accidents

As temperatures drop, fireplaces spring into action as a wonderful way to bring warmth and atmosphere to your home—especially during the holidays. Whether you have a wood burning or gas fireplace, it is crucial to make sure they are properly prepped for an active season. This ensures not only their functionality but more importantly, your safety.

Here are some must-do steps from Napolean Fireplaces to get your fireplace ready for action. Most of these can be done by the average homeowner, however, don’t hesitate to call your local chimney sweep or fireplace expert if you’re at all unsure.

For wood-burning fireplaces:

Have the chimney cleaned. The leading cause of fires from wood-burning appliances is the result of creosote (unburned fuel) that has accumulated in the chimney.
Have any gasket material inspected and replaced as required, such as the gasket sealing the door, the door glass and in some cases the ash dump. If an airtight appliance is operated without these gaskets effectively sealing the openings, excess air can leak into the firebox creating an over-fire condition, which may permanently damage the appliance.
Clean the blower if your wood-burning appliance is equipped with one. Unlike your furnace blower, these blowers do not have a filtering system to prevent the buildup of dust and hair on the blower.
Replace any broken or deteriorated brick lining. While cracks in the lining are not a concern, if the brick lining is deteriorated to the point that the steel body is exposed, the heat from the fire can cause permanent damage to the appliance.

For gas-burning fireplaces:

Have the appliance serviced by a qualified technician. A properly maintained fireplace can look as new as the day it was installed. Even the glass must be cleaned annually to keep it looking clear. Although gas fireplaces appear to be maintenance free, these combustion systems are affected by problems such as dust and insects, which could impair performance. The airways of both the pilot and main burners should be regularly cleaned to ensure that they are operating correctly.
Clean the blower if your gas-burning appliance is equipped with one. As dust accumulates on the blower blades, the balance of the blower will change causing premature wearing of the bearings. The dust also insulates the motor, preventing it from being cooled and can eventually cause the motor to seize.
Replace the batteries in any optional remote transmitters and in some cases, in the receiver as well. Even when not being used the power held in a battery is slowly depleted.

No matter what type of fireplace you have, remember to replace the batteries and test any smoke or carbon monoxide detectors you have in your home to ensure these defense monitors are operating properly.