Show care when using a wood stove or fireplace

It’s that time of year again where fireplaces and wood stoves are lit to help warm homes across the country. Wood heat is a renewable energy source that has many benefits. However, if care is not taken, the use of wood heat can cause problems.

The first thing you should do every year is have your chimney cleaned by a chimney sweep. This will remove any creosote that has built up. Creosote is the black substance that condenses in the flue or stove. it is flammable. Once cleaned, ask the chimney sweep to inspect the flue for defects or fire hazards, such as broken tiles.

Check the separation of combustible materials from the fireplace or wood stove. The clearance required will vary depending on the model of the wood stove. Hearths must extend at least 18 inches into the ground in all directions, and of course, they must not be combustible. wall clearance depends on whether or not a heat shield is used. Consult your manufacturers suggestions. If manufacturer’s suggestions are not available, keep combustibles 36 inches away.

Care should also be taken with the wood that is intended to be burned. Firewood should not be stored directly next to the house or inside. Doing so risks introducing wood-destroying insects such as carpenter ants, termites, and powder beetles. It is better to bring the wood as you need it. Always burn suspect wood immediately once you’ve brought it inside to kill any bad bugs.

As an Ohio home inspector, I see a lot of wood burning stoves and fireplaces. I even once found a hearth that was made of thin plywood. Be safe and have a warm heating season and take a look at yours and clean out the chimney.