How to Increase Fireplace Efficiency

More than providing an impeccable accent to your interior, fireplaces are the coziest and arguably the best way to keep warm in the cold winter. A lot of people like to drink hot cocoa and chat by the fireplace, but only a few know how to maintain and increase the efficiency of their fireplaces. So here are some fantastic tips that will undoubtedly take your fireplace’s efficiency to the next level.

 

Make It Yearly Habit To Clean

For a more efficient fireplace, remember to have your chimneys clean at least once a year. If you can, it is also preferred to have them cleaned by professional chimney sweepers. You can also ask these professionals to look for cracks and crevices that may have developed through time. A portion of home fires is caused by the buildup of creosote in the chimney. Having them cleaned will not only reduce the risk of light but also help the fire burn more efficiently. During winter,it is best to regularly clean your chimney by simply removing ash from the bottom pan and cleaning collected soot.

 

Keep Your Fireplace Dampers Close

Increased efficiency can be achieved when the cold is kept out of your room. Keeping the cold breeze out of your home can be easily done by making sure that your fireplace dampers are closed at all times. This rule rings true even when you are not using your fireplace. The damper is a metal plate hinged just above the throat of your chimney. While new ones are sure to keep the cold out, old ones can be quite ineffective. You can choose between having them replaced or install a chimney cap that will help solve the problem.

 

Using The Right Kind Of Wood

Finding out the type of wood to use is also a way you can increase the efficiency of your fireplace. However, regardless of whatever kind of wood you will be using, make sure that it is dried. It takes about six to nine months before all moisture evaporates from a freshly cut wood. Extra moisture also meant added smoke and thus less heat. So take note of the golden rule, use dried wood. As an added tip, hardwood burns hotter and longer compared to softwoods.

Part of what makes the cold season so much fun is when people huddle together and try to keep warm. There is no better way to do so than by being beside the fireplace, drinking away the cold, and basking in the warmth of the fire and the company of others.