History

Fireplaces have evolved over the centuries. From being a necessity for cooking and warmth, modern day fireplaces serve multiple functions. It adds to the aesthetic value of the room and can be custom designed to meet personal requirements.

Fireplace safety

As the fireplace has to do with chimneys and fire, it is imperative to maintain it well.
It should be designed so as to eliminate any kind of fire hazard. The cost of not making the repairs in time could cause damage of property, injury and death. When buying a new home, it is necessary to have a chimney professional check the fireplace to make sure it is functional and does not need repairs.

Important things about repair

According to the Customer Products Safety Commission, it is necessary to inspect and clean the fireplace and the chimney regularly. It is necessary to have a chimney sweep clean and inspect the fireplace to ensure it is safe. This is recommended once annually. Between professional visits, it is advised to self-monitor the unit's performance. While repairing a fireplace, certain points need to be kept in mind. A chimney cap is a cap fitted with wire mesh that covers the top of the chimney. Replace or repair a damaged chimney cap. Also examine the outer mortar between the bricks and the stone to make sure it is intact. Shining a flashlight down the chimney can do this. Crumbling mortar, cracked tile liners and missing bricks must be replaced. Metal chimneys must be checked for dented or rusted metal and missing screws. It is also necessary to look out for the formation of Creosote. Creosote is a dark and hard flammable crust-like substance. It occurs due to incomplete combustion of wood. It is hazardous as it can cause a dangerous chimney fire. Burning dry hardwood and providing sufficient supply of air can reduce creosote. Soot is dark in color and softer than Creosote. Cleaning is recommended when soot levels reach 1/8 inch in depth. Gas fireplaces require additional repairs. In case there is no pilot light or it goes off when switched on, it is advised to manual reset or auto reset the draft switch. Less than 500 mill volts 0.5 VDC voltage indicates a weak thermopile generator. This must be replaced immediately.

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