What Homeowners Need to Know About Chimney Fires

 

Chimney fires can be a devastating event for homeowners, leading to extensive damage and posing serious safety risks. Understanding the causes and implementing preventive measures is crucial for maintaining a safe home environment. This article will explore effective strategies to avoid chimney fires, ensuring that your fireplace or wood stove remains a source of warmth and comfort rather than a potential hazard.

Understanding Chimney Fires

Chimney fires occur when the buildup of creosote—a highly flammable substance formed from burning wood—ignites within the chimney flue. This can lead to flames shooting out of the chimney, causing significant damage to the structure and potentially spreading to other parts of the home. Recognizing the signs of a chimney fire and understanding its causes is the first step in prevention.

Causes of Chimney Fires

1.       Creosote Buildup: The primary cause of chimney fires is the accumulation of creosote, which can ignite when exposed to high temperatures. All types of wood create creosote. 

2.       Improper Burning Practices: Burning unseasoned wood or using excessive amounts of fuel can lead to incomplete combustion, resulting in more creosote production.

3.       Obstructions: Debris, animal nests, or blockages in the chimney can restrict airflow, increasing the risk of a fire.

4.  Improper Maintenance: Lack of proper maintenance, including sweeping to remove creosote, and inspections to check the condition of the chimney, can lead to chimney fires. 

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Annual Chimney Inspections

One of the most effective ways to prevent chimney fires is to schedule annual inspections with a certified chimney sweep. These professionals will thoroughly examine your chimney for any signs of damage or buildup and perform necessary cleanings.

What to Expect During an Inspection:

·         A thorough cleaning of the flue to remove soot and creosote.

·         An inspection with a Chimney camera, visual inspection, and a detailed condition report outlining any issues
       found.

·         Recommendations for repairs or maintenance.

Cleaning Your Chimney

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent creosote buildup. Homeowners should consider the following:

·         Frequency of Cleaning: If you use your fireplace frequently, aim for at least two cleanings per year. For occasional use, an annual cleaning may suffice. For wood stove burners: at least twice during the season. 

·         DIY Cleaning: If you choose to clean your chimney yourself, ensure you have the right tools, such as chimney brushes and rods, and follow safety precautions. This is not recommended because homeowners usually will not know how to identify problems with the chimney system. 

Proper Wood Burning Practices

Use Seasoned Wood

Burning seasoned wood is crucial for minimizing creosote buildup. Seasoned wood has been dried for at least six months, reducing moisture content to 20%, and producing less smoke.

Identifying Seasoned Wood:

·         Look for cracks on the ends of the logs.

·         The wood should feel lightweight and produce a hollow sound when struck together.

• Use a moisture meter to measure moisture content
  

Control Airflow

Understanding how to manage airflow in your fireplace or wood stove can significantly impact combustion efficiency.

·         Adjusting the Damper: Ensure the damper is fully open when starting a fire to allow for maximum airflow. Once the fire is established, you can adjust it to maintain a steady burn.

·         Avoid Overloading: Do not overload your fireplace or stove with wood, as this can lead to smoldering fires that produce more creosote.

Installing Safety Features

Chimney Caps

Installing a chimney cap can help prevent debris and animals from entering the chimney, which can obstruct airflow and increase fire risk.

·         Benefits of a Chimney Cap:

·         Keeps out rain and snow, reducing moisture buildup.

·         Prevents animals from nesting in the chimney.

Monitoring Fire Conditions

Use a Chimney Thermometer

A chimney thermometer can help you monitor the temperature of the flue gases. Keeping the temperature within the optimal range (300-500 degrees Fahrenheit) can help prevent creosote buildup.

·         Signs of Overheating: If the thermometer indicates temperatures above 500 degrees, reduce the amount of wood being burned or adjust the airflow.

Recognize Warning Signs

Being aware of the signs of a chimney fire can help you act quickly if one occurs. Look for:

·         Loud roaring or popping noises from the chimney.

·         Flames or sparks shooting from the chimney top.

·         Smoke suddenly backing up into the home.

Emergency Preparedness

Know What to Do in Case of a Chimney Fire

If you suspect a chimney fire, it’s essential to act quickly:

•     Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 immediately to report the fire.
•     Close the Damper: If safe to do so, close the damper to limit airflow and help extinguish the fire.
•     Evacuate the Home: Ensure everyone in the home is safe and evacuate if necessary.
•   Keep watch for several hours after the fire has been extinguished. Sometimes fires or heat that escape      the chimney can ignite nearby combustibles in the walls or attic and smolder for hours. 

Keep Fire Extinguishing Tools Handy

Having the right tools on hand can make a difference in an emergency:

·         Fire Extinguisher: Keep a Class ABC fire extinguisher near your fireplace or wood stove.

·         Chimney Fire Extinguishers: Consider investing in specialized chimney fire extinguishers that can be deployed in case of a fire.

Conclusion

Preventing chimney fires requires a combination of regular maintenance, proper burning practices, and awareness of potential hazards. By following these guidelines, homeowners can enjoy the warmth and comfort of their fireplaces and wood stoves while minimizing the risk of fire. Remember, safety should always be a priority, and when in doubt, consult with a professional to ensure your chimney is in optimal condition.

By taking proactive measures, you can protect your home and loved ones from the dangers of chimney fires, ensuring a safe and enjoyable heating experience throughout the colder months.
__________________________

Marge Padgitt is a seasoned veteran in the chimney industry, with over 40 years of experience. She is the author of Your House is Killing You, Wood-Fired Heating and Cooking, and The Chimney and Hearth Pro's Resource Book. Reach her at www.chimkc.com or email margepadgitt@gmail.com. 

Choosing the Right Hearth Appliance

Since there are so many options for hearth appliances, it can sometimes be difficult to make a decision. There are many choices available now from old school open fireplaces that actually take heat from the house to high-tech hybrid masonry heaters that heat an entire house with very little wood. Both gas and wood-burning appliances are available, and making the right choice can mean the difference between thoroughly enjoying a fire or regretting the day you decided to make a purchase. 

High-efficiency wood-burning insert

First and foremost, it is critical to purchase a quality appliance from a reputable hearth dealer or chimney sweep, and that the installer is certified by the National Fireplace Institute and/or the Chimney Safety Institute of America (preferably both), or the National Chimney Sweep Guild. These Certifications show that the installer is trained in their field. Also be sure to find out if the dealer is properly licensed by the local contractor agency and pulls a permit from the city codes department if required by your city. Professional dealers carry quality products. 

Buying from a big box store or local farm store may be tempting because of the low prices. The price reflects the quality, workmanship, and the warranty of the appliance, and that is why these types of stores sell the cheaper items. The metal is not as thick, the welds may not be as strong, and some stores even continue to sell non-EPA approved appliances which are not legal. You may also find non U.L. listed products online or in stores and that is a big problem since your local codes likely don't allow them. There is a reason - these appliances are inferior and could be a fire hazard in the near future. We've actually seen cheap stoves burn out in one season. 

Another problem with box store hearth appliances (other than electric units which are OK) is that they don't provide a qualified installer to install it. Gas and wood-burning stoves and fireplace inserts should only be installed by a qualified professional, and the manual likely states that or the warranty is voided. There is a reason for this, too - there are too many mistakes that could be made that can cause a fire or Carbon Monoxide hazard.

Below is a chart I made to help people choose the appliance that is right for them: 

If you can't read the small print, go to our website at www.chimkc.com and you'll find this same page under appliances. 

Things never to buy: 

• Non-U.L. Listed appliances
• Barrel-stove kits (unsafe and not U. L. listed)
• Non-EPA approved appliances
• Older appliances that were made prior to 1989 (f you have one, get rid of it unless it is a rare early EPA approved and U.L. listed product)

And do not sell your old appliance - have it hauled to the dump. It is illegal to install a non-approved appliance in most jurisdictions. 

Remember that your local jurisdiction may REQUIRE a professional to do the installation, including the chimney or flue liner and connecting pipe, components, chimney cover, wall and floor protection, etc. and won't let homeowners DIY. 

THIS IS NOT A DO IT YOURSELF PROJECT!

House fire 

Let me repeat that - this is not a DIY project. I don't care how handy you are, if you are an engineer, contractor, or genius -if you are not a hearth or chimney professional you will miss something important!

After all, we are talking about FIRE in your house! 

I don't suggest using non-venting gas logs (see my article To Vent or Not to Vent on this blog for more info), or pellet stoves. Pellet stoves require weekly maintenance by the homeowner, which they never do, and then the stove stops working. There are also times when in the middle of winter it is impossible to find pellets. So for this reason I say stay away from pellet heating appliances. Pellet grills and smokers, on the other hand, are very easy and fun to use and you can always get pellets in the spring.  

Keep in mind that the newer the appliance the cleaner burning it is. The Environmental Protection Agency has come down hard on wood-burning appliance manufacturers and they've really stepped up and are now making super clean burning products. Some wood-burning stoves and inserts are hybrids, which means that a catalytic combustor is installed along with a secondary burn chamber. 

Custom masonry heater
by Gene Padgitt

So what is my favorite heating appliance?  Masonry heaters, of course. Masonry heaters use 1/3 the wood of a new clean- burning wood stove to produce the same amount of heat. They also retain the heat for long periods of time then emit this in the form of radiant heat throughout the day or evening, and only require loading twice per day. And no fan is required. 

If you prefer gas, go with a high-efficiency direct vent gas insert that will provide ambiance and heating and is easy to use with a remote control! 

If you are considering a fireplace insert because your chimney is damaged by a chimney fire or rainwater, remember to ask your chimney sweep to remove the creosote in the flue and chamber first. Creosote can cause bad odors, but more importantly can catch on fire when exposed to heat from the flue liner that comes with the stove. 

I know, this is a lot to consider, but hopefully it makes your decision a bit easier. 

For more detailed information, get our book
Wood-Fired Heating and Cooking at Amazon.com

____________________________

Marge Padgitt is a veteran chimney specialist in Kansas City, Missouri. She is a former CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep and NFI Certified Wood-burning Specialist. Contact her at hearthmasters.office@gmail.com.  

Cut utility bills by using wood-heating appliances

Cut utility bills by using wood-heating appliances

Fireplace insert by Regency

One way to cut utility bills during cold weather is to use a wood-fired heating appliance such as a masonry heater, wood-burning stove, or wood-burning fireplace insert. 

Freestanding wood-burning stove
by Regency

Today’s modern wood-burning heating appliances are very efficient and clean-burning, unlike their older predecessors. The Environmental Protection Agency regulates wood stove emissions and has strict requirements that stove manufacturers must follow. This is why replacing an older, dirty burning wood stove is good not only for the environment, but less wood is needed to produce the same amount of heat.

Fuel costs can be significantly less than oil, gas, or electric heating appliances, especially if there is a nearby supply of inexpensive cordwood. For homeowners with their own land and trees, the concept of no cost for fuel other than physical exertion is very attractive. For those wanting to live off-grid, have an emergency heating alternative, or just lower fuel costs, the addition of a wood-burning appliance is a good solution.

Masonry Heater by Gene Padgitt

Masonry heaters are arguably the best type of wood-burning appliance. They use old-world technology which is a series of channels installed inside the appliance that trap heat, then transfer the heat slowly through the mass of masonry. Masonry heaters are large and need to be centrally located for maximum benefit. The Masonry Heater Association of North America has more information on these efficient site-built appliances.

Fireplace inserts are appliances that are installed inside an existing masonry fireplace. They use a small stainless steel flue liner and can be used either with or without a blower. By installing a new efficient wood-burning fireplace insert the fireplace efficiency will be increased by approximately 75%.

Freestanding stoves are appliances that are placed in a room and use an existing masonry chimney with a stainless steel flue liner or an independent Class A stainless steel chimney. These types of appliances are also highly efficient.

For more information on fuel cost calculators visit http://www.epa.gov/burnwise/woodstoves.html

____________________________________

Marge Padgitt is the president of HearthMasters, Inc. in Kansas City, Missouri. Contact her at hearthmastersboss@gmail.com. HearthMasters website is www.chimkc.com