Enjoy your home safely

A fireplace brings warmth, ambiance, and comfort to your home, especially during the cold seasons. However, to get the most out of it and avoid risks, it is essential to use and maintain it properly.

Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your fireplace, whether it is wood-burning or gas-fired.

Use dry, well-split wood.

Damp wood produces more smoke, clogs the chimney flue, and reduces the amount of heat produced. Always use hardwood (maple, oak, birch) that has been properly dried for at least 12 months.

Light your fire correctly

Start with small pieces of dry wood and rolled-up newspaper or a natural fire starter. Avoid chemicals that give off toxic fumes.

Maintain good air circulation

Proper draft is essential. Leave the fireplace door slightly open when starting the fire, then make sure that air is circulating properly to prevent smoke from building up inside.

Monitor the temperature

A fire that is too intense can damage the fireplace and the flue. Conversely, a fire that is too weak promotes the formation of creosote, which causes dangerous deposits. Opt for regular, controlled combustion.

Clean out the ashes regularly.

Remove the ashes when they accumulate to a depth of more than 2 to 3 cm. However, leave a thin layer at the bottom, which helps maintain good combustion.

Maintain and sweep annually.

Call in a professional at least once a year to sweep your chimney or check your gas installation. This maintenance reduces the risk of fire and optimizes the efficiency of your fireplace.

Prioritize safety

Always keep a spark screen in front of a wood-burning fireplace. Never leave a fire unattended, and install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.