Indian Summer Chimney Services - Lexington KY

Do’s and Don’ts

Here are some “Do’s and Don’ts” regarding the operation and maintenance of fireplace to keeping you and yours warm and safe.

Do’s

  • Use seasoned hardwood (split and cut) that’s over 1 year old.
  • Remember to open the damper!
  • Slightly open a door or a window before lighting the fire so as to create a draft, which will eliminate any smoking problems as the fire is started.
  • As a safety precaution, use a firescreen and fireproof rugs around the hearth to prevent sparks from catching carpets, rugs, etc. on fire.
  • Use kindling, starter bricks, and/or fat wood sticks when lighting the fire for the first time.
  • Keep wood covered with tarp or cover to prevent moisture absorption which would cause more smoke than fire. This would increase creosote and soot build-up that could someday result in a chimney fire.
  • It’s strongly recommended to use rechargeable fire extinguishers and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors!

Don’ts

  • Do not use “Dura-Flame” or any other artificial logs because of possible toxicity, noxious odor, and coal-like residue in your fireplace and chimney.
  • Do not use wood less than a year old, or any other softwood (e.g., pine).
  • Do not burn trash, large amounts of paper, wrapping paper, Christmas trees, etc. This helps prevent chimney fires.