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Is Your Chimney Ready for the Holidays?

by | Nov 3, 2023 | Chimney Safety | 0 comments

Is your fireplace the focal point of all of your holiday gatherings and get-togethers? Or, at the very least, is it the place you love to gather at the end of a cold or snowy winter day? This is the time of year these systems tend to see the most action, so it’s important to ensure yours is ready to withstand some more frequent use. Whether you’re ready to decorate or are just wanting to ensure everything is safe for use in the months ahead, we’re here for you.

Call with questions or to book your appointment today.

Schedule Your Chimney Inspection & Sweep

Per the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), homeowners should be investing in a chimney inspection and sweeping service at least once per year to ensure maximum safety and efficiency of their fireplace.

Why is annual maintenance the recommended approach?

  • Fire Prevention: Over time, creosote, a highly flammable substance, can build up inside of the chimney. If not removed, it can lead to chimney fires that pose a significant risk. Annual inspections and cleaning can detect creosote buildup – and other potential hazards – so that it can be addressed.
  • Heightened Efficiency: A well-maintained chimney operates more efficiently – it’s as simple as that. When the chimney is free from obstructions, such as creosote or debris, it allows for proper airflow, which promotes better combustion and more heat for your household. This also allows you to lower your thermostat and save on energy costs.
  • Improved Air Quality: Inspections allow us to spot potential damages or issues that may heighten the risk of smoke or other toxins backing up into your home. Air quality is important, especially nowadays with homes being built tighter. Make sure you’re not at risk by counting on us.
  • Cost Savings: Neglecting chimney maintenance can lead to expensive repairs. Annual inspections, on the other hand, can identify any issues early, allowing for timely – and less costly – repairs. Regular maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your chimney and reduce other long-term expenses.
  • Code Compliance: Some local building codes, warranties, and/or insurance policies may require annual chimney inspections and maintenance to ensure your home’s compliance with safety standards. Failing to meet these requirements could result in insurance issues or extra costs on your end.
  • Peace of Mind: All in all, knowing that your chimney is well-maintained provides peace of mind, especially during the colder months when you rely on your chimney and fireplace for comfort and heating. Enjoy your fireplace or stove without worrying about safety or performance issues by counting on us from the start.

How Far Should My Christmas Tree Be From My Fireplace?

The recommended rule when it comes to fireplace clearances is to keep any items at least 3 feet from the fireplace – including your Christmas tree. That’s per the recommendation of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and it’s meant as a preventive measure to avoid home fires or injury.

infographic asking how far a fireplace should be from a christmas tree (3 feet)
Other tips to keep in mind: for those who favor artificial trees, seek out ones with flame-retardant properties. And if you opt for a real tree, be diligent about keeping it watered. In either case, make certain that your tree doesn’t impede any exit pathways.

Safety Tips for Decorating Your Fireplace

Now, it’s important to be cautious with your tree, but that isn’t the only decor you should be mindful of. We know the joy of decorating the fireplace mantel, as well as the area surrounding it. After all, the fireplace is a beautiful focal point, especially during the holidays! That said, we urge you to keep the following tips in mind to ensure all is done as safely as possible.

  • Follow the 3-feet-rule. Always keep decor – especially flammable decor – at least three feet away from your fireplace fires.
  • Use fire-resistant decor. Nowadays, it’s easy to find decor that’s labeled fire-resistant. Or you could also opt for pieces that are metal, glass, or ceramic – which all naturally resist catching aflame.
  • Secure your decor. If you have decorations on the mantel or in the vicinity of the fireplace, make sure they are tightly secured to minimize the risk of them falling near any flames.
  • Inspect your lights and wiring. Any extension cords, twinkle lights, and other wiring should be checked for damage or frayed ends.
  • Unplug your decor when you’re not around. If you’re headed off to bed for the evening or leaving your house at all, any decor that’s plugged in should be unplugged to reduce the risk of any fire hazards.
  • Don’t overload your mantel. Your mantel can hold some decor, but overloading it is only asking for trouble. On that same note, ensure no flammable materials (like paper, fabric, or plastic) are lining your mantel – and don’t let items hang below it either.
  • Remove stockings when lighting a fire. If you’re like most, hanging the stockings above your fireplace is a must-do tradition. That’s just fine – only make sure you remove them before lighting any fires.

Book With Us Today

There’s no time like now to get your next chimney service booked. Our team of experts is happy to set you up right. Give us a call at 901-388-8097 or reach out to us online now. We’re here to help.