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Nothing can match the comfort and aesthetic of a fireplace on a cold winter evening. As you’re preparing to fire yours up for the first time, there are some important steps to remember. Handling fireplace cleaning and outstanding issues will ensure safe and reliable use throughout the season.

How to Prepare Your Fireplace for Winter

1. Schedule a Professional Fireplace Cleaning

fireplace cleaningHarmful debris can linger from last winter, and more may have built up through the year. These items can lead to chimney fires or damage your fireplace, so schedule a cleaning. A chimney sweep will tackle all the common areas where soot and other debris build up so that your fireplace is primed and ready for use.

2. Address Repairs

If you have outstanding repair needs from last winter, have the fireplace cleaning professionals address those as well. A faulty fireplace will only worsen when used and create safety hazards. Chimney sweeps will look at everything from the fireplace to the chimney interior and chimney cap. They can then address parts and masonry issues as needed.

3. Test Your Alarms

You never know when a fire may breakout, so test your alert systems before using yours. Make sure that the batteries in your smoke alarm are fresh before pressing the “Test” button. Look also at the age because most smoke alarms need to be replaced after eight years. Test your carbon monoxide detector as well. This odorless, colorless gas can be fatal when breathed in for long periods. If you need to install new units, consult with fireplace cleaning professionals on placement.

 

If you’re overdue for a fireplace cleaning or repairs, contact Charlie’s Chimney Sweeps & Masonry, LLC. Serving Cincinnati, OH, these professionals will perform a comprehensive chimney inspection to detect existing issues and signs of future problems. They’ll then take all the necessary steps to ensure you get safe use from your fireplace. Call (513) 553-0229 to schedule an inspection and visit their website to learn more about their services.

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