Caring for Your Fireplace

Fireplace care is something that is often overlooked, but needs to be done on a routine basis. Not only will it keep your fireplace from getting overly dirty, but it will also keep you safe and save you money in the long run by making sure that your unit is running clean and ensuring it lasts as long as it possibly can. At Behr Necessities, we believe there are three keys to fireplace care and they are prevention, detection, and proper use. Below we will explain these keys in further detail to help you keep your fireplace working as good as new.

The first key is prevention. The Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association or the HPBA, recommend that annual inspections of wood fireplaces by a certified professional or by a certified chimney sweep should be done. If you do not have a wood fireplace but have a gas or electric unit, it is also important to keep a similar routine for them. You will want to make sure that the gaskets, door seals, and chimney for your wood fireplace are all in check and that they are checked regularly. For gas fireplaces you will want to check their burners, gas lines, control units, and condensation. You want to make sure that all vents are clear and that you keep flammable materials at least 3 feet away from your fireplace.

The second key is detection. Whether or not you have a fireplace in your house, you should always have both a smoke and carbon monoxide detector in your home that you change the batteries in regularly. You will want to install these devices if you do not have them already, especially if you do have a fireplace in your home. And again, you will want to have regular inspections of your fireplace to detect potential threats or issues that may happen.

Last but not least, the third key is proper use. You will want to make sure to read the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines for proper use of electric and gas fireplaces. For wood fireplaces, you will want to make sure that you use seasoned wood as it is drier and easier to burn. You will want to clean the ashes out of your fireplace regularly so that your unit can maintain a constant air flow. This will help to keep you safe from inhaling any smoke that may not be able to escape through your chimney.

If you are not comfortable with the upkeep that your fireplace needs that is okay. At Behr Necessities we can set you up with a service and maintenance plane that will keep your unit clean and functioning for years to come. All you have to do is visit us online to schedule an appointment, or call us (419) 884-3988. We can't wait to help you find exactly what you need to make your home more comfortable.