Image : http://www.flickr.com
Having a fireplace is a great feature at home. It keeps you comfortable during the unforgivable weather in the winter. It also provides a romantic ambiance or a great decorative element in the house. However, this can be disastrous if not cared for properly. This is why it is essential to know some safety guidelines in handling and maintaining it to ensure safety.
It is important that you take proper precautions when using your fireplace. Bear in mind that there are a lot of serious cases record brought by fireplaces and its equipment especially with children. There are also a number of fires recorded caused by incidents involving fireplaces. What are the things you need to keep in mind? Are there important maintenance tips you need to follow? How are you going to handle its equipment?
Safety should start during the installation. Some homeowners are installing the fireplace by themselves. However, it is essential that you check your insurance manual and policy, as most companies do not cover fire or damages if the system was not installed by a pro. The fireplace has to be properly installed to make sure that it is safe. If you are installing it by yourself, see to it that you do it right. If there is one single step, you do not understand or that you do not know how to do, then do not do it. Ask a professional to do it for you.
You can follow a few simple things. One is the regular monitoring of the fireplace. It is important that you check all of its section regularly. You need to have a schedule to follow. Inspect all areas especially its protective part and pipes. You have to make sure that it is in good condition.
It is also essential that your chimney be checked at least once a year. It has to be cleaned as well, as required. The cleaning has to be done by the Chimneys Safety Institute of America or the CSIA. Paying attention to the chimneys can prevent a lot of problems like fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. You can also work with Certified Chimney Sweep. You can find one just by using your favorite search engine.
In addition to the having the chimney cleaned regularly, you also have to look out for trees and debris that may get to it. A chimney cap is recommended to prevent problems with debris and living organisms from getting to it.
Aside from the chimney, pay attention to the damper as well. Before you light the chimney, open the damper. Keep it open until you are certain that the ashes in it are already cool.
It is very important that you fuel it right. See to it that you use safe products when using it. Do not use gasoline or any fuel to light the fireplace as this can explode.
Most importantly, keep the combustible products away from it, as this is the common cause of fire. To make sure that you keep your home safe, read and follow the safety manual for fireplaces.
Tags : - Cheap Fireplace Store Fireplace Insert Electrics Products
