As winter settles into the Northern Hemisphere, it’s the perfect season to enjoy your fireplace. If you have one, you already know the joy it brings—it’s cozy, visually appealing, and adds a delightful sound and scent to your home. A warm fire on a chilly winter evening is especially comforting during the holidays.
However, fireplaces come with chimneys, which can affect your home’s energy efficiency. To help you save money and energy, here are some tips for maintaining your fireplace:
Close the Flue When Not in Use
It’s easy to forget to close the chimney flue after using the fireplace, but leaving it open allows warm air to escape in the winter and cool air to escape in the summer. Always make sure the flue is closed when the fireplace isn’t in use. And don’t worry about Father Christmas—he’s an expert at working around closed flues!
Inspect and Seal Cracks in the Hearth
Over time, the mortar between the bricks in your fireplace can develop small cracks, allowing air to escape. Regularly check your hearth for any cracks and seal them to maintain efficiency.
Secure the Fireplace Screens
Make sure the glass doors of your fireplace are tightly closed when the fire is out. Santa is well-versed in opening and closing fireplace doors, so no need to fret!
By following these simple steps, you can keep the heat inside your home—and warm your toes, not the outdoors.