1. Install Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarms

While a wood burning fireplace can be quite enjoyable as a source of warmth in the home, it can also lead to some serious health issues. However, without proper maintenance, you can end up with an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, and this makes it almost impossible for you to detect it. Another health hazard related to a fireplace is smoke. The best way to ensure you know as soon as these hazards become a threat is to have a carbon monoxide alarm and a smoke alarm installed in your home. Fortunately, a fireplace that's installed properly won't give you any issues.

2. Use the Right Wood

Not every piece of dry wood should be thrown into a fireplace. When it comes to operating your wood burning fireplace, you should stick to seasoned hardwood like oaks, birch, and maple, while avoiding pine and cedar. The wood that goes into your fireplace needs to be properly dried, and it should contain less than 20% moisture, according to the Cornell Cooperative Extension. Generally, you should get wood that has been dried for at least half a year to a year before you can burn it. If you have logs that you are planning to burn later, you should split them into smaller pieces to speed up the drying process.

3. Consider Safety Precautions

Safety should always be at the forefront of your maintenance routine, and there are several things you can do to make your fireplace safer. To reduce the risk of fire and property damage, keep things like combustible carpets or furniture away from the heat. If there are any rugs close to the hearth, make sure they're not flammable. When cleaning the fireplace, you should utilize the proper tools. This will prolong its life, and it also creates a safer environment in your home. Lastly, you must never leave fires unattended. You should ensure that you extinguish a fire before you leave your home or you go to bed.

Are you interested in a wood burning fireplace installation? Contact Fireside Hearth & Home today for reliable fireplace installation and maintenance.