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6.0 Cleaning, Inspection and
Maintenance
As is the case with most other equipment, cleanliness
is the best maintenance practice and will contribute
too many hours of warmth and pleasure.
WARNING: DO NOT CLEAN THE FIRE-
PLACE WHEN IT IS HOT.
A. Creosote – Formation and Removal. When
wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other
organic vapors, which combine with expelled mois-
ture to form creosote. The creosote vapors con-
dense in the relatively cool chimney flue of a slow
burning fire. As a result, creosote residue accumu-
lates on the flue lining. When ignited, this creosote
makes an extremely hot fire. The chimney shall be
inspected at least twice a year during the heating
season to determine when a creosote buildup has
occurred. If a significant layer of creosote has ac-
cumulated (3 mm or more), it should be removed to
reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
B. Disposal of ashes - Ashes should be placed in a
metal container with a tight-fitting lid, and taken
outside and placed on the ground, well away from
all combustible materials, pending final disposal. If
the ashes are disposed of by burial in soil or other-
wise locally dispersed, they should be retained in
the closed container until all cinders have thorough-
ly cooled.
C. The grate may be removed from the firebox for
cleaning. However, ensure it is returned prior to
laying the next fire.
D. Keep the fireplace screen clean so air flows
freely through it.
E. Spot check the refractory bricks and mortar for
small cracks. It will expand slightly with the heat,
and then contract as it cools. Replace refractory
bricks when the cracks open more than ¼”; or when
pits become extensive and deeper than 3/16”; or
when any piece of refractory larger than 2 inches in
diameter becomes dislodged.
F. If creosote has accumulated, it should be re-
moved to reduce the risk of a chimney fire. Clean
the chimney as outlined below or have the chimney
cleaned by a professional chimney sweep.
WARNING: DO NOT USE CHEMICAL
CHIMNEY CLEANERS THAT
ARE POURED ON A HOT FIRE.
THE CHEMICAL CLEANER
CAN BE DANGEROUS AND
GENERALLY WILL ONLY
WORK ON THE FLUE
SECTION NEAREST THE FIRE,
LEAVING THE REST OF THE
FLUE UNAFFECTED.
G. Inspect the top cap and opening in your chim-
ney top and remove any debris that could clog it. If
possible, birds will often nest there, and it must be
kept clear of nest material.
H. Check the metal flashing and seals around the
chimney. Seal any cracks or loose nail heads to
prevent roof leaks.
I. Cover the firebox opening with a damp sheet
and seal with masking tape to retain soot in the
firebox while cleaning.
J. Inspect the entire flue from the top down for
obstructions. Use a flexible handled cleaning
brush. If the chimney contains offset/return el-
bows, clean from the top down to the offset, then
from the firebox up to the offset.
K. Check the flue from inside the fireplace with
the damper open for obstructions.
L. After completion of cleaning, use a vacuum
cleaner to remove all soot and residue from the
firebox.
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