Your wood stove or furnace must be installed properly and by a professional. This is to ensure there is proper distance between the flammable parts and the non-combustible parts of the heating system. A wood stove’s chimney must be brick made (masonry) and factory built. Single bricked chimney with no liner must never be used for a wood stove..

Arrange for a professional chimney sweep to conduct an annual inspection of your chimney, especially if the fireplace is frequently used. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can clean the chimney flue and stove pipe yourself using a brush and rods. This DIY maintenance should be performed once or twice a year. Avoid using heavy objects like bricks or chains attached to a rope, as they can potentially harm the chimney liner. However, if you utilize a wood stove, it’s recommended to have a professional chimney technician inspect your chimney on a monthly basis.

For DIY assessment, you can utilize a mirror to check for creosote buildup on the chimney walls.

Creosote is highly flammable and when it is ignited, and it burns with vigor. Creosote is formed when vapor from wet wood mixes with gases and condenses. Chimney professionals state that a ¼in thickness of creosote means your chimney can burst into flames any minute and thus should be removed. In the same breath, do not ignore soot buildup. Soot is softer than creosote, but is equally flammable and should be cleaned up regularly.

Utilize smoke detectors to promptly identify and address indoor smoke occurrences. Such smoke is often indicative of a congested chimney filled with debris such as leaves, twigs, soot, or creosote buildup, causing a blockage in the chimney flue. Other contributing factors might encompass the usage of damp or unseasoned wood that hasn’t fully burned, or a partially closed damper. In any case, immediate action is crucial to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Ensure your chimney is equipped with a chimney cap featuring wire mesh, serving as protection against rainwater, ice, and snow infiltration. Moreover, the cap acts as a barrier to deter small creatures like squirrels, raccoons, and birds from nesting within the chimney walls.

Opt for stainless steel when installing a chimney liner. Stainless steel demonstrates exceptional heat resistance, capable of withstanding high temperatures and effectively containing airborne embers.

Enhance the efficiency of your heating system by incorporating heat-proof fireplace glass doors. These doors serve a dual purpose: preventing heat loss and containing embers within the fireplace, preventing errant sparks from reaching your home’s interior. To maintain their effectiveness, regularly clean the doors using a glass door cleaner and paper towel.

Proper ventilation holds a significant role within your home’s heating system. It’s noteworthy that a considerable portion, approximately 90%, of chimney fires can be attributed to issues within the ventilation system. It’s crucial to distinguish that the ventilation system is distinct from the chimney system.

The ventilation system encompasses a stove pipe that links the burning stove to the chimney. Emphasizing the necessity of maintaining a clean chimney to avert chimney fires cannot be overstated. Regular cleaning of the fireplace interior, including the hearth, is essential. Dispose of ash once it has sufficiently cooled, leaving a small amount to facilitate easier fire ignition. When undertaking fireplace cleaning tasks on your own, ensure to use protective gear.