Preparing Your Fireplace and Chimney for Fall

With the autumnal equinox behind us, fall is finally here, and with it, hopes for cooler weather, fuzzy sweaters, and all the pumpkin spice you can get your hands on. One of the upcoming joys of fall is the pleasure of sitting by a roaring fire, warming your toes in its flickering glow. But before you light your first fire you must make sure your chimney and fireplace are prepared for fall.

Preparing your chimney and fireplace for fall has a number of benefits. First, it is a critical safety measure. Lighting up a fire under a dirty chimney could be a recipe for disaster. But there are other benefits, too:

- Remove creosote to prevent dangerous fires in your chimney
- Improved air quality in your home
- Keep your home warmer when the fireplace is not in use
- Save energy
- Catch damage before it can get worse

Gas-burning fireplaces need to be cleaned and maintained too! Before each season, make sure you check and clean your fireplace's blower. Unlike a heating furnace, most fireplace blowers do not have a filter, so cleaning is extra important. You should also get your entire system cleaned and inspected every other year. Make sure to check the airways for both the main burners and the pilot. Also, if your fireplace uses a remote, take the opportunity before the season begins to check the batteries and swap out any dead batteries in the remote or the receiver.

While the first falling leaves hit the ground and you are enjoying the cool, autumn air hitting your face, take the time to contact a reliable chimney service in your area. Have them clean and inspect your fireplace and chimney so that you can go ahead and safely start the official fireplace season. Looking for more fall home maintenance tips? Check our blog on Top Home Maintenance Tips for Fall.  Interested in knowing what your home is worth in today's market? Contact us today and let us provide you with a complimentary home evaluation.