5 tips to get your fireplace ready for Autumn
While it’s sad to say goodbye to summer, the crispness of Autumn leaves plenty of time to prepare for cooler temperatures. Fireplace owners, specifically, should use these months to ensure their home heating appliances are functioning at peak performance.
Use our tips to start a checklist for your home's stoves, gas fires or electric fireplaces.
Preparing your wood-burning stove
1. Clean the chimney
A clean chimney is to a wood burner what a pen is to paper: without one, the other would be pointless.
A build-up of soot and creosote poses a significant risk to the home and can reduce your stove’s efficiency. HETAS recommends having your chimney swept twice a year when burning wood and at least once a year when burning smokeless fuels.
Ideally, this should be done by a professional before the heating season begins and after your stove has not been used for a prolonged period. They will thoroughly clean the chimney and check for any blockages or structural issues that need addressing.
2. Inspect the fireplace structure
Before the cold sets in, inspect the structural integrity of your fireplace. Check for any visible cracks in the firebricks, which can deteriorate over time due to high temperatures.
You should also examine the stove’s door seals and gaskets. A simple paper test can help determine if the door seals are still airtight; if the paper slips through, the seal likely needs replacing.
3. Clean and prepare the interior
Next, it’s time to inspect the stove itself.
Remove old ash and debris from the firebox, but leave a small layer of ash: this trick may help new fires burn better. Clean the stove glass with a damp cloth dipped in ash, which acts as a mild abrasive, or use a manufacturer-recommended cleaner.
4. Check and maintain fireplace tools and safety equipment
Responsible fireplace ownership also means conducting regular checks on your equipment and safety devices. Inspect tools such as pokers, shovels, and brushes for any damage and replace them if necessary.
You should also make sure that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are in working order. These are crucial for detecting dangerous emissions that a faulty stove could produce.
5. Stock up on firewood and fuel
Stay stocked up on fuel to prepare for dropping temperatures. We recommend seasoned wood, as it burns more efficiently and produces less creosote than green or wet wood.
Look for wood with a moisture content of 20% or less, which is often indicated by the 'Ready to Burn' logo in the UK. Storing your firewood correctly is also important; keep it in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent it from absorbing moisture.
Preparing your electric fireplace
1. Check all electrical connections
Unplug your electric fireplace and inspect the power cord for any fraying or cracks: secure electrical connections are vital for safe operation.
Also, examine the plug and socket to check they’re in good condition. If you notice any signs of damage, consult a professional electrician.
2. Clean the fireplace exterior
Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface of your electric fire.
Wipe down the exterior with a soft, lint-free cloth, avoiding abrasive cleaners that could scratch or damage the surface. For glass fronts, a specialist fireplace glass cleaner can remove any smudges or residue.
Regular cleaning helps prevent dust build-up, which can interfere with the heating elements and fans.
3. Test the heating element and fans
Turn on the fireplace and switch through all the settings to confirm that the heating element is producing the desired warmth.
Listen for any unusual noises from the fans, which should operate quietly and efficiently. If the fans are noisy or the heating element doesn’t seem to be working correctly, it might be necessary to clean or seek professional help to replace them.
4. Ensure proper ventilation
Even though electric fireplaces don’t produce smoke or emissions, adequate airflow around the fireplace helps prevent overheating.
Check that the vents are free from obstructions and that there’s enough space around the fireplace for air to circulate. If your fire is installed within a wall or a tight space, make sure that any built-in ventilation systems are working correctly.
Preparing your gas fireplace
1. Clean the fireplace glass and interior
Over time, residue and soot can accumulate on the glass of your gas fireplace, giving it an unsightly ‘cloudy’ appearance. To clean the glass, turn off the gas supply and allow the fireplace to cool completely.
Use a specialist fireplace glass cleaner to gently remove the build-up without scratching the surface. For the interior, remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the logs, stones, or burner.
2. Test safety detectors
Faulty gas fireplaces may leak carbon monoxide, and prolonged periods of exposure to CO2 can have adverse health effects. That’s why testing safety detectors is a vital part of annual fireplace management.
Press the test button on your alarms and replace the batteries if needed. To ensure they remain effective, it’s advisable to replace detectors every ten years (or according to the manufacturer’s guidelines).
3. Clear the surrounding area
The area around your gas fireplace should be free of flammable materials and clutter. Over time, items such as furniture, rugs, and decorations can inadvertently be placed too close to the fireplace, becoming a fire risk.
That’s why you should always make sure the surrounding area is free from obstructions that could impede airflow or pose a hazard when the fireplace is in use.
4. Schedule a servicing appointment
Your gas fireplace should be serviced by a qualified gas safe registered installer once a year. They’ll thoroughly inspect the fireplace for signs of wear, damage, or potential issues such as gas leaks.
They can also clean and tune the components to ensure your fireplace is operating at peak performance. Scheduling this service at the beginning of autumn means that your fireplace is in top condition before heavy use during the winter months!
