Wood Fireplaces Melbourne-wide are incredibly beautiful, and they can be dangerous if you don’t know how to use them properly. You may not realise that your fireplace isn’t as safe as it could be, but there are a few simple changes you can make today to ensure that you and your family are fully protected from all potential hazards this winter season. To help, here are five tips on how to get the most from your wood fireplace this season.
1) Keep it Clean
Don’t let your wood fireplace, or chimney, become a haven for soot and ash. Excessive buildup can lead to dangerous and sometimes costly situations. You should be cleaning your fireplace once per year and never use any flammable liquids on or around your fireplace while it is in use.
The best time to clean Wood Fireplaces Melbourne -wide is when it is not in use because soot buildup tends to fall when doors are opened. Still, fires caused by unattended candles are also common causes of residential fires during the holiday season!
2) A great fire starts with great wood
Choosing a solid, sturdy and well-seasoned log is essential. Hardwood logs burn more slowly and give off an intense heat. Softwood logs—like pine, fir or cedar—are better for quick fires that warm up a smaller area more quickly. If you are using wood from your backyard, it’s important to ensure there aren’t any insects in it. Keep in mind some wood smoke can contain toxic fumes and if you have children or pets, make sure you keep them well out of harm’s way when it comes time to build a fire and then light it—using an open fireplace?
3) KNOW THE BASICS OF STARTING A FIRE
The first thing you want to do is make sure you know how your fireplace works and that it’s in good condition. If you’re a new homeowner or haven’t used your fireplace for a while, it might be time for a quick walkthrough with an expert. Be sure you have enough wood (or other fuel) stocked up, too—you don’t want your fire to burn out before everyone has had their fill of hot chocolate and s’mores. Wood should last between two and four hours, depending on its size, type, and moisture content. Before burning, ensure your damper is open slightly, so there’s adequate ventilation.
4) BUY YOUR WOOD LOCALLY
Wood Fireplaces Melbourne encourages you to buy your wood locally. If you live in a place with firewood stands, take advantage of them! The cost is almost always going to be lower than other sources of fuel, and you’ll help support local businesses and jobs. Plus, if it’s cheap and fast for you, it’s probably less expensive for everyone else. It also means someone has cut down a tree that is not an endangered species (or planted one either.) Buying your wood locally means less time out on dangerous roads by big trucks. Wood Fireplaces Melbourne loves that!
5) Follow the safety rules
When using your wood fireplace, follow all safety precautions. Always have a fire extinguisher and smoke alarm on hand. Avoid a creosote buildup in your chimney by cleaning it every few months. And be sure to have a professional install any gas logs you might choose for added safety and convenience.