How to Minimize Creosote
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Burn Only Seasoned Hardwoods
Dry Hardwoods reduce the generation of creosote because of their high burning temperatures and low smoke density.
Don’t Allow The Fire To Smolder Overnight
When you are finished with the fire, separate the unburned pieces from the coals. Stand unburned logs on end at the back of the fireplace.
Don’t Burn Trash In Your Fireplace
Burning trash in your fireplace can dirty your chimney fast and send large embers up the flue. This can create a dangerous situation. If there is a creosote build up a large ember will likely set the creosote on fire. One of the other things that can happen is that large embers could ignite the roof or surrounding combustibles.
Check For Buildup Periodically
An inspection should be done at least once a year by a chimney professional to make sure everything is in good working condition. In fact, an annual inspection is required by NFPA211 Standard. In addition to this, you need to conduct periodic inspections to check for buildup. You could do this by opening the damper and looking into the smoke chamber with a flashlight. Take a screwdriver, fireplace poker, or other handy tool and scratch through the build up to the masonry. If the build up is more than1/4”, a cleaning is due. If the chimney is a factory built metal type, it should be cleaned after 1/8” buildup. The smoke chamber is often here the chimney fire starts, then it works its way up to the top of chimney.