It may not be the season for using them, but it’s definitely the season to give them a once over; whilst our fireplaces aren’t in use for the next few months, it’s a great time to attend to their maintenance. In this article we’ll be providing you with a list of things to get on with to make sure your fireplace provides the heat you need safely and reliably when the winter rolls around again.
Book your chimney sweep
The sweeping of your chimney is an expert-only job, and while it’s recommended to get your chimney swept before the cold season and after a prolonged period of inactivity (like the summer), you don’t want to be fighting every other fireplace owner for an appointment. Get booked in nice and early to ensure you’ve secured your spot for the autumn. Don’t forget, your chimney must be swept at least once a year.
Clear out ash and debris
Provided it’s been at least 12 hours since your last fire, you can set to work removing ash from your fireplace with a metal scoop and bucket before sweeping out the last of it. You can dispose of ashes via your garden waste bin, or at your local recycling centre.
Identify any structural damage
If you’ve noticed cracks or loose bricks in either your fireplace, or on your chimney, you should engage with a structural professional to address them before it’s winter again.
Clean your fireplace grates and doors
Use a stiff brush and a microfibre cloth that’s been dampened with water to remove stubborn ash and unsightly build ups, leaving your fireplace grate and doors sparkling again.
Testing your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors
This really should be a monthly activity, but it can’t hurt to add it to your summer maintenance list. These are vital safety devices for any home, not just one with a stove, an open fire, or a gas fire, so make sure you test their operation, and replace if necessary.
Get your gas fire serviced
If it’s a gas fire that sits within your fireplace, ensure you’ve got a gas fire service booked in the diary if you haven’t had it done already this year. Gas fire servicing is essential to the safe and efficient operation of your gas fire, and you can’t afford for it not to be working properly.
Keep your fireplace looking tip top
Whether it’s cleaning the mantel, doing paint touch ups around the fireplace, or giving the hearth tiles a good scrub, getting your fireplace looking the best it can be will stand you in good stead for winter.
Upgrade your stove or fireplace with Wakefords
If you’re looking for a bigger change than just a summer clean, it might be time to invest in a new stove or fireplace, something we’re more than happy to help with if you’re in the Surrey area. We’re a knowledgeable bunch who are more than happy to guide you towards the right stove or fireplace for you, even if you’re not sure what you need yet. Just get in touch!