Temps have dropped and many parts of New York have turned into a snow globe. Fireplaces serve this season not just as focal points and generators of ambiance, but to bring warmth into a living space – and we’re here to ensure yours is performing as well as it can.
Traditional open fireplaces, however, can be a rather inefficient heat source, allowing lots of heat to escape out the chimney – and particularly so if the best burning practices aren’t observed. Does that mean fireplaces aren’t worth it? Definitely not, as attested by their time-tested appeal…and amplified by the marvels of modern engineering. But it does mean that you should be deliberate about making the most of your fireplace.
A well-maintained fireplace and chimney system, along with good burning practices and some thoughtful upgrades, can significantly lower your home’s heating costs and help make your home stay cozier during these colder months. If you need chimney and fireplace services near Rochester, NY, don’t wait to reach out – our team can help.
Rochester Homeowners Hire Us for Fireplace Maintenance
Chimneys and venting systems should be swept and inspected at least once per year by a professional chimney sweep. Why? Because soot and creosote build up in chimneys with use, creating fire hazards and messing with airflow. And even if you don’t use your chimney frequently, similar problems can occur in other ways – nesting critters and damaging moisture can cause system issues.
In the end, a damaged or blocked chimney simply won’t work as it should. Smoke and gases might linger, fires won’t burn as hotly or as cleanly, and air circulation may be compromised.
To keep things running well, call on our technicians today. Not only can we help ensure safer, more efficient operation (that’s less likely to cause inconvenient interruptions), we can help you stay ahead of issues that can quickly get worse if left unchecked.
Long story short: Quality inspections and maintenance are the number one thing you can do to get the most out of your fireplace.
Invest in Fireplace Upgrades for Efficiency
- Invest in fireplace glass doors. One relatively simple, yet effective, way to improve your fireplace’s energy efficiency is to have glass doors installed. Glass doors act as a barrier. They help keep your warm air from escaping, while reducing the amount of cold air that can enter through the fireplace when you aren’t using it. In addition, when the fireplace is being used, glass fireplace doors can help concentrate and distribute the heat in your space.
- Upgrade your fireplace damper. Another component that may benefit from an upgrade is your damper. The damper is a part of your chimney that helps regulate airflow for the fireplace system. It should always be open when your fireplace is lit to allow the free exchange of air, but closed when the fireplace isn’t in use. Along with remembering to open and close your damper at the appropriate times, upgrading to an energy-efficient top damper can help with energy savings. These modern dampers are designed to provide a better seal right from the top of your flue.
- Have a fireplace insert installed. A more substantial upgrade is a moving from an open fireplace to a fireplace insert. Tradition, open fireplaces are hard to beat when it comes to classic charm, but they simply aren’t the most efficient fireplace option available. Enter fireplace inserts – they preserve the aesthetic appeal of your existing fireplaces, but are a game-changer when it comes to efficiency. Inserts are retrofitted into existing fireplaces, but have a sealed design that prevents heat from escaping. They provide more heat with less fuel and reduce heat lost up the chimney.
Questions for us? If you’re curious about the possibilities when it comes to fireplace inserts or other upgrades, we’re here to answer your questions. We carry a range of excellent options, and our experts our qualified to handle most repairs. We can help you select the best option for your lifestyle, needs, and aesthetic preferences.
Best Fireplace Practices: Using Your Fireplace for All It’s Worth
In addition to booking maintenance and investing in some smart upgrades, there are certain fireplace practices that will further help keep energy levels in check:
- If you have a wood-burning fireplace, use wood that’s been seasoned (dried) for at least six months. This will give you much more complete combustion than damp or green wood, resulting in a hotter, cleaner blaze. Store your firewood where the top of the pile will stay free of rain or snow, but the sides will benefit from good air circulation.
- Older fireplaces (and homes in general) may not be well insulated. Having a professional add insulation around the fireplace or chimney can help prevent heat from escaping and reduce condensation – which can be severely damaging to a chimney. Sealing gaps around your fireplace’s edges can also be a helpful step.
- When you have a fire going, be thoughtful about what rooms you’re heating. If some rooms will remain unused, closing their doors will help keep warmed air where you want it.
Book With Our Experts
A well-maintained chimney can provide a lifetime of enjoyment – and can also shave down energy costs. As a full-service fireplace company, we’re your one-stop shop for accessories and components that will boost performance, as well as unparalleled service and expert knowledge – from conception to installation to maintenance.
Let us help you get the most from your fireplace this winter and for many more to come. Call or book online today.
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