Warmer weather has arrived, and this means fireplace season has ended. Since you will not be burning a fire again for a few more months, closing up your fireplace and chimney for the summer can help you to cool your home more efficiently. You do not want to lose your chilled air out of the chimney as this can make it difficult to keep your home comfortable and it can make your utility bills higher as your air conditioner must work harder. Winston’s Chimney Service is often asked by our customers how to best prepare their fireplaces and chimneys for the summer months, and here is the best way to take care of your fireplace for the summer:
Remove the ashes.
Using a fireplace shovel, remove all of the ashes, charcoal, and unburned wood from the firebox. You can add this residue to the dirt in your yard, or you can simply throw it in the trash. If you do add this to your yard, you must be sure to mix it in with the dirt so that the ashes do not blow back into your home.
Wipe down the hearth.
After removing the ashes, your hearth will need to be cleaned. You can wipe off the dust with a damp sponge, rag, or mop.
Clean the firebox.
Winston’s Chimney Service can recommend a commercial fireplace cleaner you can use to scrub down the base and walls of the firebox with a wire brush, or you can make your own cleaner from vinegar diluted with water.
Check your fireplace screen.
For wire screens, a vinegar-water mixture can be used for cleaning. You should clean glass screens with ammonia.
Change the decor.
To add an attractive decorating touch, you can place candles inside the firebox or switch out the screen to a summer fireplace screen.
Seal up the chimney.
Ensure that your damper is closed to seal out hot summer air from the outdoors and to keep the cold air inside. Winston’s Chimney Service can make the seal even better by installing fireproof installation.
Have questions about closing up your fireplace and chimney for the summer? Contact [Winston’s Chimney Service for answers to what you need to know.
