When it comes to removing ash and soot from your fireplace, many find themselves wondering what the safest technique is. At Winston’s Chimney Service, we value home and customer safety above everything else. This is why we want to inform our readers on the best approach for removing and disposing of your fireplace ash. Learn more below!
Gather The Appropriate Tools
First of all, make sure you are using metal (or other non-flammable) tools when scooping out your ash. On these same guidelines, choose a non-flammable storage container to put the ash in. Live embers and coals can reignite for days after a fire has taken place, so you will want to ensure there is no chance a fire could occur within your bucket or storage unit.
You will also want to purchase a tight-fitting lid for your container. Oxygen fuels fires, so keeping any hot ash sealed off will ensure that no air circulation can enter and trigger a new flame.
Store It Safely
Once your container is filled, keep it stored on a non-flammable surface (such as concrete or brick) and keep it far away from your home. You can never play it too safe when it comes to protecting your house from a potential fire. These steps could make all the difference when it comes to keeping everyone healthy and happy throughout your holiday season.
Once stored, let it sit for at least 3 or 4 days. This way you can be certain that everything is completely out before disposing of the ash. As mentioned previously, embers and coals can stay hot for days at a time, so make sure that you have given your ash adequate time to cool. The more time the better!
All of these steps will not only work to prevent a house fire from occurring, but will grant you the peace of mind you deserve. Holidays are stressful enough without adding fire hazards to the mix. Keep your mind at ease by taking all the precautions necessary to keep your home and family safe.
Leave A Thin Layer
When clearing ash from your fireplace, it is okay (and actually helpful) to leave a thin layer behind. This will help in fueling and lighting future fires, and it even works to guard your fireplace floor from the intense heat your fireplace produces.
Note that a heavy layer of ash does not benefit a fireplace. Not only will it cause lasting damage to your grate and other accessories, it will eventually wear down the masonry, as well. Scoop out your ash on a regular basis to ensure your chimney stays strong and efficient for years to come.
For more information, contact the staff at Winston’s Chimney Service today! We can advise you on the best practices for fireplace maintenance and safety. If you are still in need of an annual inspection or cleaning, please get in touch right away so that we can get you in before the holiday season really takes off. We look forward to setting you up right! Thanks for choosing us!
