Owning a fireplace is one of the most luxurious experiences at home. From curling up in front of the warm fire with a cup of coffee and a good book to relaxing in peace and comfort with the ones you love, there’s no space at home you would rather be. That’s why keeping your fireplace clean is such an important step in maintaining an amenity you want to use for years to come. Here are a few tips on how to clean a fireplace well.
Schedule Yearly Chimney Service
Before you start your fireplace season, it’s important to have your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year. Schedule your professional chimney sweep service with Energy Center-Manhattan Pool. Your technician is a Certified Chimney Sweep® who will clean the creosote and other build-up from your flue. They can also do a camera inspection of your chimney to ensure that everything is in proper repair. This will help keep your fireplace efficient and safe to use throughout the cold weather months this year.
Remove Leftover Ashes and Debris
After your yearly professional inspection and cleaning, you’ll need to consistently keep your fireplace clean. First, sweep out the ashes and any leftover wood. Ashes accumulate in your fireplace as you use it, and they can eventually become a fire hazard if left unattended. Keep a metal bucket on hand and use a dustpan or scoop to clean out all of the ashes from the fireplace floor. Once they are removed, take them outside and put them into an approved ash bucket for disposal.
Clean and Vacuum the Fireplace
Once all of the ashes are out, clean the entire interior of your fireplace using a soft, clean cloth. Make sure to clean in crevices and areas where wood debris accumulate such as where the firebox attaches to the flue. You can also vacuum up any remaining dust or debris that could have been left behind or use a clean broom to sweep out the excess.
Clean the Firebox, Hearth, and Glass
Take a damp clean cloth with some mild detergent mixed in to clean off the firebox and hearth. This is especially important if you haven’t used your fireplace in a while, as ash buildup can be difficult to remove without the help of a cleaner. Make sure to clean fireplace brick of soot and debris, then wipe down the inside with a clean cloth for extra shine. Shine the interior and exterior of any glass doors to remove buildup that can cause a foggy appearance.
Don’t Forget to Clean a Fireplace on the Exterior
Finally, clean the exterior of your fireplace using a clean cloth and an approved cleaner. This will help keep it clean and free of soot, as well as giving it a sleek and polished look. Be sure to clean all edges, corners, and crevices for maximum beauty.
Keeping your fireplace clean is essential in preserving its functionality throughout the winter months. If you take these simple steps, you will have a clean and efficient fireplace that is ready to use whenever you are.
And if you ever need chimney service or have other questions on how to clean a fireplace, Energy Center-Manhattan Pool is the name you can trust through every season. Contact us today and let us help you reclaim the coziest spot in your home. Happy fireplace cleaning!
