As the weather begins to warm, it’s time to transition your fireplace to the off-season. For both your comfort and the longevity of your hearth, take advantage of expert help to keep the structure in excellent shape. Here’s a guide to what you need to do as the seasons change.

How to Prepare Your Fireplace for Summer

1. Tidy the Firebox

End the winter season by cleaning out the area where you build fires. This chore includes removing log remnants and any latent ash, both so the space looks presentable and so it’s ready for service in a few months. Remove the grate and treat it with an iron paste so that it won’t accumulate moisture and rust.

2. Have a Specialist Clean the Chimney

After steady usage over the course of winter, your chimney accumulates a significant amount of creosote, or sooty buildup. During a professional sweep, a technician removes the caked-up material, safeguarding the lining of your chimney and helping you avoiding odors in warmer weather.

3. Save Energy if You Have Glass Doors

As the higher temperatures arrive, many residents rely on air conditioning to stay cool. Once you finish using your fireplace, shut the damper and glass doors, if it has them. Without that seal, the cool air will be able to escape through the chimney, causing your energy bills to skyrocket as the HVAC system works harder to achieve the same effect.

If you haven’t had a fireplace inspection recently, get in touch with the specialists at Fireplace Creations, LLC, in Buffalo, MN. They’ve been in business for over two decades, and their fireplace repair team is family-owned and operates locally. With their expertise in everything from gas stoves to wood stoves, you can schedule a free consultation by calling (763) 682-4262. Learn more about the company and their products and services by visiting their website.