Preparing Your Home for a Power Outage:  Heating, Cooking, and Staying Safe

Preparing Your Home for a Power Outage: Heating, Cooking, and Staying Safe

Living in Canada, we’ve all experienced a bad winter storm—freezing temperatures, piles of snow, and sometimes, power outages that can last for days. Is your home ready to handle one?

 

Be Prepared: Essential Supplies

During a power outage, you’ll want to ensure you can keep your family fed and at least part of your home warm. Here are some basics to have on hand:

  • Water: Store at least 2 litres per person, per day, for up to 72 hours.
  • Non-perishable food: Stock up on canned goods, dry snacks, and other items that don’t require refrigeration.
Plan Ahead for Emergencies

To make the most of your fireplace and barbecue during a power outage, preparation is key.

  • Create a supply kit: Include firewood, matches, a fire extinguisher, extra propane or charcoal, and a first-aid kit.
  • Install safety equipment: Carbon monoxide detectors and fire alarms are crucial when relying on fireplaces or barbecues.
  • Have a backup cooking plan: Stock non-perishable foods that can be cooked easily on a grill.

 

Heating Your Home Without Power

Whether you’re using a gas or wood-burning appliance, safety should always come first.

  • Never leave a fire unattended.
  • Ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide buildup, especially with gas fireplaces.
  • Use a sturdy screen or glass doors to prevent sparks from escaping.

Gas Fireplaces, Stoves, and Inserts

Gas appliances are excellent secondary heat sources during power outages. Many models are designed to operate without electricity, either by generating their own power or using a battery backup.

Tips for Gas Appliances
  • Check whether your gas appliance has a battery backup – if not, consider adding one to your setup.
  • Install fresh batteries before every heating season.

Wood Fireplaces, Stoves, and Inserts

Wood heating appliances are another reliable option. They produce radiant heat that can warm your living spaces for days.

Tips for Wood Heating Appliances
  • Keep an adequate supply of seasoned firewood.
  • Use non-electric fans designed for woodstoves to circulate heat. These fans are powered by the heat from the stove itself.
  • Keep your chimney clean and in good working condition to avoid smoke buildup or fire hazards.

 

Cooking Without Electricity

Using Your Wood or Gas Stove

Many wood and gas stoves can double as cooking appliances. They can heat food or water on top of the stove, and some models even include additional features like ovens or water reservoirs.

Tips for Cooking on Stoves
  • For models with a trivet, remove it to place pots directly on the inner top for better heat conductivity.
  • Use a thermometer to monitor cooking temperatures.
  • Practice cooking on your stove ahead of time to understand how to manage heat.
Cooking with a Wood Stove
  • High Heat: Build a large, steady fire.
  • Low and Slow: Add one or two pieces of wood at frequent intervals for a long, steady burn.
  • Cooking on Coals: Let the fire die down to a bed of coals and use a Dutch oven or foil packets for even cooking.

Using Your Barbecue

A barbecue is another valuable tool for preparing food when the power is out—but remember, never use a barbecue indoors due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Winter Grilling Tips
  • Allow extra time for food to cook, as outdoor temperatures can affect grilling.
  • Check out our article on Winter Grilling for more tips on using your barbecue effectively in cold weather.
Safety Tips
  • Always use your barbecue outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from windows, doors, and flammable materials.
  • Never bring a barbecue inside—carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk.

 

Canadian winters can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can keep your family warm, fed, and safe during a power outage. By maintaining your fireplaces and stoves, practicing your cooking methods, and having essential supplies ready, you’ll be well-equipped to weather any storm.

Wood and Pellet Storage: Tips for Keeping Your Fuel Safe, Dry, and Ready to Burn

Wood and Pellet Storage: Tips for Keeping Your Fuel Safe, Dry, and Ready to Burn

As the temperatures drop and you start relying more on your wood or pellet stove to keep your home warm, ensuring you have a reliable fuel supply is crucial. However, storing wood and pellets properly is just as important as having them in the first place. Proper storage not only preserves the quality of your fuel but also ensures it burns efficiently and safely. Here’s what you need to know about storing wood and pellets to get the most out of your woodstove or fireplace this heating season.

 

The Importance of Proper Storage

Moisture Control: The biggest threat to both wood and pellets is moisture. Proper storage keeps your fuel dry, ensuring it burns efficiently and produces maximum heat.

Wet wood is difficult to burn, produces more smoke, and generates less heat. Check the moisture content of your wood before burning  –  firewood should have a moisture content of 15% to 20%1

Pellets, being compacted sawdust, can easily disintegrate if exposed to moisture, rendering them useless.  Pellets should have a moisture content of 5% to 10%2.

Pest Prevention: Storing wood improperly can attract pests such as insects and rodents. These pests can damage the wood or create infestations in and around your home. Pellets can also attract pests if not stored in a secure, dry place.

Convenience: Proper storage makes it easier to access your fuel when you need it, saving you time and hassle during the cold months.

 

Storing Firewood

Choose the Right Location: Store your firewood in a location that is off the ground and at least 4 feet away from your home. Keeping wood directly on the ground can cause it to absorb moisture, while storing it too close to your home can invite pests inside. A well-ventilated woodshed or a stack of wood on a raised platform or pallet is ideal.

Stacking Firewood: Stack your firewood neatly to promote air circulation. Proper airflow helps the wood dry out faster and stay dry. The best way to stack wood is in a crisscross pattern, which allows air to circulate through the pile. Be sure to stack wood bark-side up to help shed rain.

Covering Firewood: While you want to protect your wood from rain and snow, it’s important not to cover the entire stack with a tarp or plastic sheet, as this can trap moisture. Instead, cover just the top of the stack, leaving the sides open to allow air circulation. If you’re storing wood in a shed, make sure the shed is ventilated.

Seasoning Your Wood: Freshly cut wood, or “green” wood, needs to be seasoned, which means it must be dried out for at least 6-12 months before it’s burned. Seasoned wood has a moisture content of less than 20% and burns more efficiently. If you’re buying wood, ask whether it’s seasoned or green, and plan accordingly for storage. You can test the moisture content using a moisture meter available from most specialty hearth retailers and hardware stores.

Properly stored firewood should be good for use for about 3 to 4 years3, but it is important to check the moisture content

 

Storing Wood Pellets

Keep Pellets Dry: Unlike firewood, pellets are highly susceptible to moisture, which can cause them to break down and become unusable. If possible, store pellets in a dry, indoor location. If you must store them outside, keep them in a waterproof container or tightly sealed bag.

Use Proper Containers: Store pellets in sturdy, airtight containers, such as plastic bins with lids. This will protect them from moisture, pests, and other contaminants. Avoid storing pellets directly on the ground; keep them elevated on pallets or shelves.

Temperature Considerations: While pellets don’t require the same airflow as firewood, storing them in a cool, dry place is still important. Extreme heat can cause pellets to break down over time, while cold, damp environments can lead to moisture absorption.

Order in Bulk: If you use pellets as your primary heating source, ordering in bulk can save you money and ensure you have enough fuel for the season. Just ensure you have adequate storage space that meets the abovementioned conditions.

 

Additional Tips

Inspect Regularly: Whether you’re storing wood or pellets, it’s a good idea to check your fuel regularly for signs of moisture, pests, or damage. If you find any issues, address them immediately to prevent further loss.

Rotate Stock: Use the oldest fuel first to ensure you’re always burning the driest and most seasoned wood or pellets. This also helps prevent waste.

Keep It Accessible: Store your wood and pellets in a location that’s easy to access during winter. You don’t want to be trudging through snow to retrieve your fuel but remember to keep it at least 4 feet away from your home.

 

 

Proper storage of wood and pellets is essential to maintaining a warm, safe, and efficient home during the heating season. By keeping your fuel dry, protected, and easily accessible, you’ll ensure it burns efficiently and provides the heat you need when you need it. Take the time to store your wood and pellets correctly, and you’ll enjoy a cozy and trouble-free winter.

 

1 US Environmental Protection Agency

2 US Department of Energy / energy.gov

3 Chimney Safety Institute of America

The Importance of Regular Chimney Cleaning: Protecting Your Home and Health

The Importance of Regular Chimney Cleaning: Protecting Your Home and Health

As the colder months approach and the warmth of a crackling fire becomes more appealing, it’s easy to overlook one essential task: chimney cleaning. Whether you use your woodstove or fireplace regularly or just occasionally, maintaining a clean and safe chimney is crucial for the safety and comfort of your home. Here’s why regular chimney cleaning should be at the top of your home maintenance list.

 

1. Prevent Chimney Fires

One of the most critical reasons for regular chimney cleaning is to prevent chimney fires. Over time as you use your appliance, creosote – a highly flammable substance – builds up on the inside the walls of your chimney. Creosote is a byproduct of burning wood, and even a thin layer of creosote can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire. A professional chimney cleaning removes this creosote buildup, significantly reducing the risk of fire.

2. Improve Air Quality

A blocked or dirty chimney can lead to poor indoor air quality. Soot, debris, and animal nests can obstruct the airflow, causing smoke and dangerous gases like carbon monoxide to back up into your home. Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations. Regular chimney cleaning ensures proper ventilation, allowing harmful gases to escape and keeping your indoor air safe to breathe.

3. Enhance Fireplace Efficiency

A clean chimney helps your fireplace operate more efficiently. When the chimney is free from blockages and creosote, it allows for better draft, which means your fire will burn hotter and cleaner. This not only improves the heat output but also reduces the amount of wood you need to burn, saving you money on fuel and reducing your environmental impact.

4. Prolong Chimney Life

Routine chimney cleaning can help extend the life of your chimney. Creosote, moisture, and other debris can cause corrosion and damage to the chimney liner and masonry over time. By keeping your chimney clean and well-maintained, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your chimney serves your home for years to come.

5. Avoid Unpleasant Odors

A dirty chimney can produce unpleasant odours, especially during the warmer months when it’s not in use. Creosote, soot, and moisture can create a strong, musty smell that permeates your home. Regular cleaning eliminates these odour-causing agents, keeping your home smelling fresh.

6. Identify Potential Issues Early

During your annual chimney cleaning, the WETT-certified chimney sweep will inspect your chimney for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracks, loose bricks, or deteriorating mortar. Early detection of these issues can prevent them from becoming more serious and expensive to fix. Regular cleaning ensures your chimney is always in good condition and safe to use.

 

When to Schedule Chimney Cleaning

Experts recommend having your chimney swept and inspected by a WETT-certified technician at least once a year, either in the spring or before the start of the heating season. However, if you use your fireplace or stove frequently, you may need more frequent cleanings. Additionally, if you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to call a WETT-certified professional chimney sweep:

  • Soot buildup: Visible soot or creosote on the chimney walls, rain cap or around the appliance.
  • Smoke issues: Smoke entering your home when you light a fire.
  • Strange smells: Unpleasant odours coming from the fireplace.
  • Poor draft: Difficulty getting a fire to start or stay lit.

 

Regular chimney cleaning is a simple yet vital step in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your chimney and fireplace. By preventing chimney fires, improving air quality, and maintaining your chimney’s structural integrity, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace with peace of mind.

 

Find a local specialty hearth retailer near you at hpbac.org/find-a-member.

Find a WETT-certified chimney sweep near you at www.wettinc.ca/search-wett.

In Quebec, contact APC for a certified technician near you at www.poelesfoyers.ca/trouver-un-professionnel.

Photo credit: Good Fellas Stoves and Chimneys

A Comprehensive Guide to Gas Fireplace Maintenance

A Comprehensive Guide to Gas Fireplace Maintenance

Gas fireplaces provide warmth, comfort, and ambiance to homes, making them a popular choice among homeowners. To ensure your gas fireplace continues to operate efficiently and safely, regular maintenance is essential. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps required to keep your gas fireplace in top-notch condition.

1. Safety First

Before you begin any maintenance, ensure your gas fireplace is turned off and cool, and the gas supply is shut off at the main valve. Safety should always be your top priority.

2. Cleaning the Exterior

Start by cleaning the exterior of your gas fireplace. Dust and debris can accumulate on the surface, affecting its appearance. Use a soft cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dirt and dust. For stubborn stains, use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner.

3. Inspect the Glass Front

The glass front of your gas fireplace can become cloudy or develop deposits over time. To clean it, follow these steps:

  • Ensure the fireplace is cool.
  • Remove the glass front according to your manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Clean the glass with a gas fireplace glass cleaner, ceramic cooktop cleaner, or a mixture of vinegar and water.
  • Dry the glass thoroughly before reinstalling it.

4. Check the Burner and Ignition System

The burner and ignition system are crucial components of your gas fireplace. Here’s how to inspect and maintain them:

  • Remove the logs or artificial embers to access the burner.
  • Clean the burner and pilot assembly using a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris.
  • Inspect the ignition system for signs of wear or damage. Contact a professional technician to have worn-out components replaced.

5. Examine the Venting System

A well-maintained venting system is essential for the safe operation of your gas fireplace. Check for obstructions or debris in the vent pipe, and make sure it’s properly sealed. If fireplace is direct vented through the wall, inspect the outside sidewall terminal and ensure it’s clear of debris or overgrown shrubbery.

6. Clean the Firebox and Logs

The interior of your gas fireplace can accumulate soot and debris over time. Here’s how to clean it:

  • Turn off the gas supply and allow the fireplace to cool completely.
  • Remove the logs or artificial embers.
  • Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove soot and debris from the firebox.
  • Clean the logs or embers with a soft brush or a damp cloth.

7. Inspect the Gas Lines and Connections

Visually inspect the gas lines and connections for any signs of damage or leaks. If you suspect a leak or find damaged components, contact a professional technician immediately.

8. Replace Batteries

If your gas fireplace has a battery-operated remote control or ignition system, replace the batteries with quality alkaline batteries annually. This ensures that your fireplace functions smoothly.

9. Annual Professional Inspection

While regular maintenance is crucial, it’s also essential to have a professional technician inspect your gas fireplace annually. They can identify and address potential issues that may not be visible during routine maintenance.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and scheduling an annual professional inspection, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your gas fireplace for years to come. Remember that safety should always be your top priority, and if you’re ever unsure about any aspect of maintenance, consult a qualified technician. Find a service company specializing in fireplaces near you at www.members.hpbacanada.org/find-a-member.

The Crucial Role of Chimney Cleaning: Ensuring Safety and Efficiency

The Crucial Role of Chimney Cleaning: Ensuring Safety and Efficiency

The cozy warmth of a crackling fire in the fireplace is the ultimate comfort during colder months. However, there is a critical aspect of maintaining a safe and efficient wood burning fireplace or stove – chimney cleaning. Often overlooked, chimney cleaning plays a pivotal role in ensuring not only the safety of your household but also the efficiency and longevity of your hearth appliance. In this blog post, you’ll learn why regular chimney cleaning should be a top priority for every homeowner.

1. Preventing Fire Hazards

One of the most compelling reasons to prioritize chimney cleaning is the prevention of fire hazards. As you enjoy your wood burning fireplace, stove (or pellet stove) creosote – a highly flammable substance – accumulates on the interior walls of your chimney. Creosote is a byproduct of burning solid fuel like wood or pellets, and over time, it can build up and create a thick layer that increases the risk of chimney fires. These fires can be extremely dangerous, potentially leading to the spread of fire throughout your home. Regular chimney cleaning removes this hazardous buildup, significantly reducing the likelihood of a damaging chimney fire.

2. Ensuring Proper Ventilation

A clean chimney ensures proper ventilation for your hearth appliances. When a chimney becomes clogged with creosote, debris or animal nests, it can obstruct the flow of exhaust gases. This obstruction can cause harmful gases, like carbon monoxide, to be forced back into your living space rather than being safely vented outdoors. Carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless and highly toxic, making it a silent but deadly threat. Regular chimney cleaning ensures these gases are properly vented and maintains your home’s indoor air quality.

3. Maximizing Heating Efficiency

A clean chimney also contributes to an efficiently burning fireplace. When a chimney is obstructed, the draft necessary for proper combustion and heat transfer is compromised. This can lead to inefficient burning, decreased heat output, and an overall wastage of energy. By keeping your chimney clean, your hearth appliance can work at its optimal efficiency, saving you money on energy bills and the environment from unnecessary resource consumption.

4. Extending Appliance Lifespan

Chimney cleaning goes beyond immediate safety concerns; it also impacts the lifespan of your heating appliances. A buildup of creosote and other debris can accelerate the deterioration of your chimney’s lining, as well as the interior components of your fireplace. Over time, this can lead to premature wear-and-tear and costly repairs. Regular maintenance, including chimney cleaning, helps keep your fireplace in good working order for many years to come.

5. Professional Expertise

Look for a WETT-certified expert who will have the knowledge, tools, and experience to thoroughly clean and inspect your chimney, identifying any potential issues that require attention. A professional chimney sweep can provide you with peace of mind, knowing your chimney is in capable hands and your home’s safety is a top priority.

Do not overlook the importance of chimney cleaning! The safety, efficiency, and longevity benefits it provides are undeniable. By investing in professional chimney cleaning, you are not only safeguarding your home, but also contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient living environment. 

Find a service company specializing in hearth appliances near you at www.members.hpbacanada.org/find-a-member or visit wettinc.ca.

Is It Time For A New Fireplace?

Is It Time For A New Fireplace?

It’s that time of year – the days are getting shorter and the nights cooler, which means we can start enjoying our hearth appliances. If you haven’t yet performed the yearly maintenance that ensures your unit is in good working order, please read our article on preparing for the season.

For some, it might be time to consider replacing their old unit with a newer, more efficient model. The best way to determine the age your appliance is to contact the manufacturer of the product. You’ll need to provide the full model and serial numbers directly to the company in order to obtain this information.

Model and serial numbers are key to finding information, getting service and ordering parts for your hearth product. These numbers can be found on the ‘rating plate’, a metal plate that’s usually permanently affixed to the fireplace, insert or stove. Access to the plate may require the removal of some parts and accessories.

 

Woodburning Appliances

On factory-built wood-burning fireplaces, these numbers will be on a metal plate which can be located in a variety of places, depending on your product:

  • Inside the bottom of the fireplace behind the bottom louver or faceplate (the bottom louver or faceplate will need to be opened or removed)
  • The bottom front of the stove, under the ash-lip (the fan will need to be removed first),
  • The upper left side or right side of the firebox
  • Riveted on the smoke shield behind the screen

Gas Appliances

On gas appliances and inserts, the serial/model/rating plate should be in one of the following:

  • The lower cavity controls area
  • The control compartment area (the decorative front and vanity panel may need to be removed)
  • Below and behind the fireplace’s lower louver
  • Attached to a gas line or stamped on the floor of the insert

A wood burning fireplace will need to be replaced when critical parts deteriorate and replacements become unavailable. Parts are usually available for a minimum of 7 to 10 years after the fireplace has been manufactured.

Repairs are possible with available replacement parts but some issues are not repairable and require that the homeowner replace the fireplace. This would include deterioration of the firebox or heat exchangers. These are most commonly due to lack of regular maintenance or general misuse by the operator.

Gas burning units are less prone to such failures because they are generally not used for long periods of time. Since these types of fireplaces are often used for decorative applications or zone heating, the length of time in which they are used in a season can be significantly less when compared to other products, resulting in a potentially longer life cycle.

We recommend you call a professional WETT-certified chimney sweep to clean and service your wood appliance. For gas appliances we recommend using a gas fitter for cleaning and service.

 

You can find specialty hearth retailers and service experts by visiting hpbacanada.org/find-a-member/retailers-and-service.