Fireplaces are an excellent feature to have in a home. Not only do they provide an ample amount of heat, but they also add a cozy aesthetic to the room that they’re in. However, it doesn’t take much to reduce the efficiency of these structures. Use the following guide to ensure your fireplace continues to function at its best throughout the winter.

A Guide to Maintaining the Efficiency of Your Fireplace

1. Close the Damper

This is the part of the structure that connects the fireplace to the chimney. It provides a fresh airflow that keeps the fire going and prevents smoke from filtering into the room. Neglecting to close this after creating the flames could cause heat loss that may require you to light another fire sooner than anticipated.

2. Use Dry Wood

Wood that hasn’t been properly treated will produce large amounts of smoke and not enough heat. After purchasing a cord, split the wood to size and stack it on a platform to avoid direct contact with the ground. Cover it with a water-proof tarp and store softwoods for approximately six months and hardwoods for about a year. This will ensure that it’s nice and dry for future burning.

3. Set Up Glass Doors

While it may seem counterintuitive to install glass doors along the front of your fireplace, it can actually help to increase efficiency. The solidness of the glass will act as a barrier, preventing cold air from flowing down the chimney and into the house. This addition will also help to keep the warm air inside the room and allow your home to heat up faster.

4. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Chimney’s accumulate layers of creosote after months of burning wood in the fireplace. This can make it difficult to maintain a flame and reduce the structure’s efficiency. Scheduling an appointment with a chimney sweeping company will prevent the buildup from getting out of hand and help to maintain the fireplace’s functionality.

If it’s been a while since your last fireplace service, reach out to the experts at Bradigan’s in Armstrong County, PA. This locally owned company has been in business since 1952 and specializes in chimneys, air conditioning, and heating appliances. They are highly-skilled in the industry’s most effective techniques and offer friendly customer service. Call (724) 548-7654 to speak with a representative about setting up an inspection. Visit their website for more information on their chimney services.