A wood-burning fireplace creates an inviting, cozy atmosphere for your Tilson home. Before you light that first fire, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you operate your fireplace safely and efficiently.

First and foremost, make sure the flue is open before starting a fire. The flue is responsible for ventilation and is the pathway for the smoke and gases produced during combustion to exit the home. The handle that controls the flue is usually located at the front of the fireplace and must be moved from side to side to open and close it. Always check that the flue is open before lighting a fire, and keep it closed when not in use to prevent unwanted air from entering your home.

Next, be mindful of the type of wood you are burning. Pine, cedar, and other softwoods contain high levels of resin that can produce dangerous soot buildup in the chimney, leading to the possibility of a chimney fire. Instead, opt for hardwoods such as oak, maple, or birch. These woods burn hotter and produce less smoke, ash, and soot.

Be sure to prioritize chimney maintenance. Regular cleaning is essential to preventing a chimney fire. A qualified chimney sweeper should clean your chimney at least once a year - more often if you use it frequently. You'll also want both the interior and exterior of your fireplace and chimney inspected annually by a qualified professional.

Enjoy your wood-burning fireplace by following these essential tips: keep your flue open, burn hardwoods, clean your chimney regularly, and schedule annual inspections. If you have any questions about properly operating your wood-burning fireplace, don't hesitate to reach out to our Customer Care department. We're always here to help ensure the safety and comfort of your Tilson home.