| Q. What causes this build-up of creosote? |
The degree and severity of the creosote varies form a fine powder to a non-removable tar. All creosote is caused form the incomplete combustion of your firewood. The reason for incomplete combustion is that the fire is burning at too low a temperature. Low temperatures can be the result of unseasoned, wet or soft firewood, intentional burning at a low temperature, or closing down the fireplace before all of the wood is consumed.
back to top |
| Q. What is unseasoned, wet, and soft firewood? |
Unseasoned firewood is wood that has not had the opportunity for the natural moisture in the log to have evaporated. In order for this process to occur, the log needs to be split into halves or quarters and allowed to sit for six months to one year. Wet wood is simply logs which have sat outside and absorbed moisture from outside elements. Soft wood is a term used to describe certain types of wood that are not recommended for use in a fireplace.
back to top |
| Q. Is the chimney clogged if it smokes into my home? |
|
Generally speaking, no. Some of the most common causes for smoke backing up into the home are:
-
The damper is not locked in the open position
-
The wood is unseasoned, wet, or soft and cannot create enough heat to cause the smoke to rise properly into the chimney.
-
The walls of the chimney are cold, not allowing the smoke to rise properly.
back to top
|
| Q. How can I avoid this from happening? |
Make sure the damper is locked open before starting the fire. Make sure that you are using seasoned firewood. If the chimney walls are cold, light a piece of loosely rolled newspaper and place it near the damper. This will push heat into the chimney, creating the proper draft.
back to top |
| Q. Is there anything else I can do to make sure I burn wood safely? |
Yes. There are many things to burning wood than just throwing anything into the fireplace and striking a match. First, many households items, when burned, can create toxic fumes. It is always best to burn only wood in your fireplace. You may wish to go to your local library and obtain information on the proper wood burning procedures. Second, always wear protective gloves when around the fireplace and never set anything on the hearth area - it may catch fire from radiated heat. Third, never use anything combustible to remove ashes from your fireplace.
back to top |
|
|
|
|
