Is it the dancing flames? The mesmerizing calm it brings? Or is it the warmth and coziness it adds to your home? Perhaps it’s that it creates a place to gather with your loved ones. What is it that you love most about your fireplace?
No matter your reason, we can all agree a fireplace is a wonderful addition to any home. Owning a fireplace is enjoyable, simple and hassle-free. But there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to your fireplace. Here are 4 things every fireplace owner should do.
1. Fireplace Inspection
Why have an annual fireplace inspection?
Whether you use your fireplace on occasion or every night, an annual inspection is recommended. Ideally, this should take place shortly before fireplace season begins. The key reasons for an inspection, among others, are to check for two things. And both reasons are related to safety.
First, there are sometimes large amounts of residue, buildup, or other combustibles in your fireplace or chimney that could cause safety issues. This build-up is normal with use but needs to be cleaned and removed to prevent problems such as chimney fires.
Second, an inspection checks for structural soundness. A fireplace can be unsafe to burn in due to poor construction or structural concerns created over time. Read more about why you need a basic fireplace inspection.
What happens at a fireplace inspection?
When a technician comes to your house, there is a long list of items they will accomplish. The chimney sweep will inspect your firebox, mantle and chimney to ensure it’s safe for use. If not, they will recommend possible solutions or tell you what repairs are needed to make the space usable again.
Then, the technician will deeply clean the fireplace and chimney interior. Following this, they will check your attic, room, and chimney exterior for safety and soundness.
Why choose Energy Center-Manhattan Pool?
Choosing the right company when it comes to your fireplace and chimney is a big decision, but not one you should take lightly. Energy Center-Manhattan Pool has certified technicians that will help you get ready for winter and ensure that your home stays warm all season long without any problems.
We offer a variety of services including installation, repair, cleaning, and more! Visit our website today to learn about everything we have to offer.
How often should you have an inspection?
Just like you would take your car in for an oil change, you should schedule regular inspections of your fireplace. Regular inspections will help to ensure that the fireplace is running smoothly and safely.
At Energy Center-Manhattan Pool, we recommend a yearly inspection with our fireplace and chimney experts. Of course, you can contact us any time to service any issue that arises.
2. Fireplace Owner Safety
A fireplace is a beautiful addition to any home. But what many people don’t consider is the responsibility of owning a fireplace means learning and observing all necessary safety measures. At Energy Center-Manhattan Pool, we can teach you how to use and maintain your fireplace safely so that you can enjoy it for years to come!
Children
Gathering around your fireplace with children can be great fun! But little ones in the house may not know or understand the real-life hazards of a fire. It is important to take time to teach them how to safely interact with the fire.
When they’re a bit older, you may even want to teach your kids how to safely light a fireplace. Educating your children and grandchildren is key to keeping them and others safe.
Chimney Safety
When most people think of fire safety, the first thought is not about the chimney. But chimney safety and care should not be neglected. Chimney fires are caused by blocked or damaged chimneys. Blockage can often occur due to chemical deposits building up on the chimney.
To prevent a chimney fire from happening, be diligent about scheduling your annual fireplace and chimney inspection with our team at Energy Center-Manhattan Pool. For more about chimney safety, check out these 5 things to know about chimney safety.
3. Fireplace Maintenance
Regular fireplace maintenance is important but doesn’t have to be difficult. The frequency and type of maintenance will depend on the type of fireplace you have. Be sure to check out how to regularly care for your wood burning, gas, or electric fireplace.
As a fireplace owner, parts of your fireplace that may require regular maintenance include:
- Make sure your fireplace is protected with a water-repellant sealant like Chimney Saver® and Crown Coat®.
- Thoroughly clean the fans to prevent dust and ash from being blown in your home and improve efficiency.
- Oil the damper often so it opens and closes easily and doesn’t get stuck, which provides more control over the airflow.
- Keep the glass on the door cleaned for visibility.
4. Enjoy
Inspection, safety, and maintenance are extremely important to keeping your family, home, and fireplace safe. Once those are taken care of, it’s time for the best part of fireplace ownership: enjoying your fireplace! Start your fire, gather with your loved ones, and soak in the beauty and warmth of your fireplace.
Your Gathering Place
While our primary purpose for a fireplace may be for warmth and comfort, your fireplace is a wonderful place and reason to gather. Invite your friends and family over for an evening of delicious food, storytelling, laughter, and so much fun! The memories made around your fireplace will be cherished for years to come.
Want to become a fireplace owner?
Interested in adding a fireplace or fireplace insert to your home? You’ve come to the right place! Energy Center-Manhattan Pool is the top source for all things hearths and fireplaces for Manhattan, Wamego, Junction City, and all of the tri-county area. Our fireplace specialist can show you the many amazing options for gas, wood burning, and electric fireplaces and fireplace inserts.
Contact us today to learn more about your options for adding a fireplace to your home and enjoying the amazing benefits of being a fireplace owner.
At Energy Center-Manhattan Pool, we specialize in pools, spas, outdoor living, fireplaces, and more! We invite you to stop by our conveniently located Manhattan store to meet our team and learn more about all we have to offer. Come Find Your Gathering Place!
