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Tips To Prepare Your Fireplace for Summer

With Summer on the horizon, you are probably thinking about a trip to the beach or a lake; you may be planning to lounge around a pool. The last thing you are likely considering is your fireplace, but it's crucial that you do. Here are some tips to prepare your fireplace for summer. You will be glad you did when fall comes around, and you need your fireplace.

Getting Your Fireplace Ready for SummerProfessional Chimney Sweeping and Cleaning in North Bethesda MD

Clean the Fireplace and Chimney

After a long winter of cozy fires, your fireplace and chimney may have accumulated ash, soot, and creosote. If you are unfamiliar with creosote, it is a sticky and highly flammable substance responsible for most chimney fires. Creosote can also make your summer unpleasant as it generates an acrid smell in warmer weather.

Give your fireplace a thorough cleaning by removing ashes and debris from the firebox. Schedule a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect your fireplace and chimney, ensuring they are free from any blockages or damage that could cause potential hazards. Blockages can cause a deadly gas known as carbon monoxide to flow back into your home and endanger your family.

There are additional things you can do, such as cleaning the glass doors on a fireplace or vacuuming ashes from around the fireplace, but cleaning the chimney should be left to professionals.

Inspect the Damper

The damper is an essential part of your fireplace that helps control air circulation. Ensure it's functioning correctly by opening and closing it a few times. If it's stuck or doesn't seal when closed, consult a professional to repair or replace it.

Close the Damper

Once the fireplace and chimney are clean and you've ensured the damper is in working condition, close it. Closing the damper during the summer months helps prevent warm air from escaping through the chimney and keeps outside air from entering your home, making it more energy efficient.

Perform a Safety Inspection

Check for any signs of wear and tear, cracks, or damage in your fireplace and chimney. Contact a professional to repair or replace any damaged components to maintain the safety and efficiency of your fireplace. A professional chimney tech should undertake this action during an inspection. They can identify problems you aren't familiar with and prevent future damage to your fireplace and chimney.

Remove Fireplace Accessories

Remove any fireplace accessories, like screens, grates, and tools, and thoroughly clean them. Store these items in a safe place until the cooler months return.

Use a Fireplace Cover

Consider investing in a fireplace cover or decorative screen to protect your fireplace from dust and debris during the summer. A cover also keeps curious pets or children from exploring the firebox.

Check and Maintain Seals

Inspect the seals around your fireplace doors, windows, and glass to ensure they are intact and functional. Replace any damaged seals to maintain energy efficiency and prevent drafts.

Add a Touch of Décor

Transform your fireplace into a decorative focal point for the summer. Place candles, lanterns, or potted plants in the firebox to create an attractive display. Also, hang a decorative wreath or artwork above the mantel to enhance the appearance further.

Bethesda Chimney Will Get Your Fireplace Ready for the Summer

If you're in the greater Washington DC area, Northeast Virginia, or Montgomery County and you want to prepare your fireplace and chimney for the summer, call us at 202-217-1767 (DC), 301-969-4444 (MD) or 703-935-4444 (VA) or fill out our contact form.

A friendly staff member will be more than happy to set a time for our chimney techs to inspect and clean your fireplace and chimney. If we find any issues with the fireplace or chimney, we will recommend repairs.

Get your fireplace ready for summer today!

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