How Often Should I clean my Fireplace?

We recommend annual cleaning and maintenance for all heating appliances, even if your fireplace or stove does not have a chimney. If you use your fireplace or stove heavily throughout the winter, your appliance may benefit from more frequent service. Annual service keeps your manufacturer’s warranty valid, extends appliance life, and protects your family from carbon monoxide exposure and fire risk.

Does my gas fireplace need to be cleaned?

Yes. Gas fireplaces burn cleaner than wood, but they still vent combustion gases through a flue. The flue can develop cracks, moisture damage, or blockages. A blocked or cracked gas flue is a carbon monoxide risk. An annual inspection applies to gas systems just as much as to wood systems.

What type of wood should I use

Regardless of the species, your wood must be seasoned (dried) with a moisture content of less than 20%. Burning unseasoned ("green") wood creates excessive smoke, hisses in the firebox, provides little heat, and builds up dangerous, flammable creosote.