Having an efficient fireplace in your Minneapolis, MS area home will ensure that you minimize energy waste in your home during the winter. Having a reliable and efficient heating system means that you get even greater comfort throughout the coldest winter months. Contact 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. any time to learn about our fireplace installation, maintenance and fireplace repair services. We also offer annual chimney sweeping and chimney inspections, so call today if you haven’t had your chimney cleaned this year.
Here are a few ways you can help maintain the efficiency of your fireplace when heating your home.
Use Chimney Dampers
When your fireplace or gas logs are not in use, be sure to close the damper in your chimney so that you aren’t losing heat. If you have a gas furnace that is being vented through the chimney, the damper should remain open as long as your furnace is being used. Be sure that you know how to operate the damper to make sure that it is securely closed or open all the way when using a fireplace or gas heating system.
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance for your fireplace will entail many tasks. First, you can visually check your fireplace and firebox for any damages. Cracks in the masonry or damaged fire boxes can increase the chances of air leaks through these cracks. Calling a Minneapolis chimney technician for an annual chimney cleaning and inspection is the other huge part of preventing repair needs and maintaining efficiency.
Burn Seasoned Wood Only
For wood-burning fireplaces, burn seasoned wood only. If you are burning green or treated wood, it can cause a number of problems. First, it can lead to excess creosote build-up inside the flue liner. This can damage the liner and hinder proper ventilation. In addition, it will cause smoky or smoldering fires that will not heat the home as well, and you’ll end up using more wood than normal.
If you would like to know more about heating your home efficiently with a fireplace, call the Minneapolis fireplace and chimney experts at 2nd Generation Chimneys for all your fireplace and heating efficiency needs.