Tips For First-Time Fireplace Owners

Families have been sharing memories around the wood-burning fireplace for generations. There is something magical about the soothing sounds of crackling maple firewood as the dancing flames release a delicate, sweet aroma into the room. Whether you are moving into your first home with a traditional brick hearth in Shorewood or installing a modern gas fireplace for the first time in your Oak Creek home, these valuable tips will enhance your experience.

For New Wood-burning Fireplace Owners

Get a Chimney Inspection (Level 2)

Before lighting your first fire, schedule a Level 2 inspection with a certified professional. This vital inspection ensures the chimney is structurally sound, free of blockages (like creosote, bird nests, or debris), and ready for use. It is a critical first step for fire prevention, especially in older Milwaukee homes.

Burn Only Seasoned Wood

The most common mistake is burning freshly cut wood from your backyard. Seasoned wood—wood that has been dried for at least six months—burns hotter, more efficiently with less smoke and creosote buildup.

Open the Damper

Always ensure the damper (the metal plate that opens and closes to allow air to flow into the chimney flue) is fully open before lighting the fire and keep it open until the embers are completely cool. Never attempt to light a fireplace when the damper is shut.

Safe Ash Disposal

 Shovel ashes into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and place it outdoors and away from any combustible materials. Never dispose of ashes in a cardboard box or a plastic container. Even if they appear cold, embers can retain heat for days. 

Schedule Regular Sweeping

Wood-burning fireplaces should be professionally swept at least once a year, or after burning a cord of wood (which is a stack measuring 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long). Sweeping removes creosote buildup and significantly reduces the risk of a chimney fire and exposure to toxic carbon monoxide exhaust.

For New Gas Fireplace Owners:

Your Gas Line and Shutoff Valve

 Locate and understand how to turn off the gas line leading to your fireplace. In an emergency, this is your first step.

Keep Vents Clear

 Ensure the area around the fireplace, including air intake and exhaust vents (for vented models), is clear of combustible materials, such as toys, rugs, and furniture. Proper airflow is essential for safe operation.

Avoid Adding Items

 Never place anything inside a gas fireplace, including wood, paper, or flammable materials. Gas fireplaces are designed to operate only with their installed ceramic log set.

Install a Carbon Monoxide Detector

While gas fireplaces are clean-burning, a malfunction could lead to the release of carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless, colorless gas. Install CO detectors on every level of your home, including near the fireplace.

Annual Servicing

Gas fireplaces require annual professional servicing to check the gas connections, clean the burner and pilot light, and ensure all components are working efficiently and there are no gas leaks. If you notice sooty buildup, refrain from using the fireplace until a certified gas fireplace professional has serviced it.

Affordable Fireplaces For Sale & Installation In Greater Milwaukee

Whether you prefer the traditional ambiance of a wood fire or the convenience of gas, Smoke Stacks is your trusted local partner. Proudly serving the Milwaukee Metro area since 1993, including Riverwest, Lisbon, Waukesha, and Cudahy, we offer a large selection of wood-burning and gas fireplaces, inserts, and stoves. Call Smoke Stacks today to schedule an appointment and create the perfect ambiance with a traditional or contemporary indoor or outdoor fireplace.