The Crucial Role of Chimney Cleaning: Ensuring Safety and Efficiency

The Crucial Role of Chimney Cleaning: Ensuring Safety and Efficiency

by | Sep 13, 2023 | Heating Your Home, HPBAC Blog, Uncategorized

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.

How To Plan A Fireside Date At Home

How To Plan A Fireside Date At Home

by | Feb 12, 2021 | Consumer News, Heating Your Home, HPBAC Blog

This Valentine’s Day looks a little different for most of us due to the ongoing pandemic, but it doesn’t mean we can’t bring romance and date nights home. With the significant changes in the way we spend our time, it’s essential to make your date night at home feel just as exciting as if you were spending the evening out. The best part? You can come as you are, no dress code required.

Planning a successful fireside date night at home takes a few elements and a little creativity. The following five essential components are the perfect combination for the most romantic date. 

 

Food

Food is one of the best parts of any evening, and that is especially true when it comes to date nights, as food can be an activity or provide an opportunity to try something new. Cooking together can be a great date night idea, no matter what you choose to cook. If you’re not interested in lifting a finger, this could be a great time to explore local restaurants that deliver directly to your front door. That way, you can be adventurous with new cuisine without having to leave the comfort of your couch.

 

Drinks

The drinks or beverages you choose may seem like an insignificant detail but making sure to have options available can make your date night feel like an extra-luxurious occasion. Consider offering multiple drinks throughout the date, such as water to start, a cocktail or a glass of wine as you head into dinner, and finishing off the evening with a nightcap.  

 

Ambience

The ambience in your home is a big part of the evening as it will truly help set the mood. Lighting the fireplace adds instant romance to your room, whether you have a wood, electric or gas fireplace. If you find yourself without a real fireplace in your home, you can create that ambience by turning on a fireplace video. No matter how you accomplish that fireside feeling, this little touch makes a huge difference, and also works well if you happen to be planning a fireside picnic in the living room for your date.

 

Warmth

Keeping your home feeling warm and comfortable is a significant part of a successful date night, especially as you’ll most likely be spending the entire evening in one room. So set your home’s temperature or fireplace to a suitable level; if you’ve decided to get dressed up, you’ll want to feel comfortable without a jacket or a sweater. As the evening starts to wind down, consider setting out a few cozy blankets for extra comfort and warmth.

 

Entertainment 

The evening’s entertainment portion is where you can get creative and have fun with your plans for the night. Do you prefer a quiet activity or something with a bit of excitement? Whether you plan to cook a meal for two together in the kitchen or a night of charcuterie and board games, choose something that both parties will love and enjoy. 

 

Now that you’ve gathered everything for your romantic fireside date night, all that’s left to do is pick the time. Consider sending your partner or spouse an invitation a few days ahead so they’ll know to reserve their spot on the couch. All of these little details can make up the perfect night at home and the ideal way to spend February 14th, or any day, with someone you love.

Enjoy Your Gas Fireplace Safely (And Often)!

Enjoy Your Gas Fireplace Safely (And Often)!

by | Dec 16, 2020 | Consumer News

A gas fireplace serves as one of the safest and most reliable appliances in the home, providing both heat and ambiance at a moment’s notice. Gas fireplaces are clean burning, require little maintenance, and can be an important source of heat in an emergency situation such as a power outage.

Because efficiency and safety are important issues, HPBAC recommends that a gas fireplace be professionally serviced at least once a year to ensure top performance and aesthetic appearance. A qualified professional inspects the burner, fan, venting, pilot light and thermostat, and even cleans the glass. Further, a carbon monoxide detector should be present in the home. 

Here is a full list of recommendations to ensure you are getting the safest and most enjoyable experience out of your gas fireplace:

Safe setup

  • Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and place smoke detectors throughout the house. Test the smoke detectors and batteries regularly. See that the extinguisher is in good working order and that all family members know how to operate it.
  • Obtain a building permit prior to installing or replacing your hearth appliance, as required by the laws in your area.
  • Advise your insurance company about the installation or replacement of your hearth appliance.
  • Have your hearth appliance installed out of the way of foot traffic and away from furniture and draperies.
  • To fully understand the necessary steps involved in proper operation, read the manufacturer’s instruction manual for your specific hearth product.
  • If your hearth appliance is being installed in a home during construction or renovations, do not operate it until the area is thoroughly cleaned; drywall dust and other contaminants may harm the fan motors and burners.

Using your hearth appliance

  • Do not store combustible materials, gasoline or other flammable liquids near your hearth appliance.
  • Never leave a child alone in a room with a hearth appliance. If your child is not in a playpen, an adjustable gate system that fits most hearth appliance areas can be installed which allows adult access to the hearth appliance but keeps kids outside in the safety zone. Alternatively the same kind of safety gate system can be used to cordon off the entire room to prevent your child wandering into the room alone.

Regular maintenance

  • Clean the glass regularly (but never when it is hot). It is recommended to use a glass cleaning product specifically intended for fireplace glass, available through most hearth retailers or hardware stores. Never use abrasive products or ammonia-based cleaners which may scratch the glass surface.
  • Maintain your hearth appliance regularly in accordance with the manufacturers specifications, and industry best practices.

To discuss any of these matters, feel free to contact:

Adam De Caire

Director, Public Affairs
HPBA Canada
(647) 998-4235
adam@hpbacanada.org

FortisBC Connect to Gas Program Update – Outdoor Appliance Top-up

by | Jun 25, 2020 | Consumer News, Member News

With summer in full swing, many customers may be prioritizing outdoor renovations over space heating and water heater upgrades. To help customers with undertaking outdoor renovations projects, while also getting them to think about space heating and water heating upgrades, FortisBC is introducing an additional $300 rebate offer for outdoor appliances under the Connect to Gas program effective July 1, 2020.

Who is eligible?

  • Customers who replace their old oil, wood or propane primary space heating system with an eligible ENERGY STAR® high-efficiency natural gas furnace, boiler or combination heating and hot water system, and also install a natural gas outdoor appliance (BBQ, patio heater, outdoor fireplace or fire pit) are now eligible for up to $2,000 in rebates.
  • Customers whose homes are already connected to natural gas, can now receive up to $1,400 in rebates when they install a direct vent wall furnace, water heater and a natural gas outdoor appliance (BBQ, patio heater, outdoor fireplace or fire pit).

Increased contractor incentives

Also effective July 1, contractors who take part in the Connect to Gas program can receive up to $175 in incentives: $100 for an eligible space heating upgrade, $150 for an eligible space and water heating upgrade and an additional $25 incentive for an outdoor appliance.
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For any questions about the program, please visit the FortisBC Connect to Gas website page, call 1-877-740-0055, or email rebates@fortisbc.com.
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Top Reasons to Install or Upgrade a Fireplace

Top Reasons to Install or Upgrade a Fireplace

by | Nov 28, 2019 | Heating Your Home, HPBAC Blog

When it comes to adding ambiance, there is nothing better than a fireplace. Whether woodburning, gas or electric, a hearth appliance not only increases your home’s value but can lower your monthly heating costs, all while creating a comfortable, happy space for friends and family.

Increased Home Value

According to real estate professionals, one of the most desirable features for homebuyers is a fireplace, and having one could add 6–12% to your listing price. A recently updated fireplace can add value to your home when you’re ready to sell, especially if it’s a high efficiency appliance.

Affordability

It may come as a surprise, but a hearth appliance can provide an efficient space heating option that won’t break the bank. The cost of upgrading a fireplace varies but can be quite an affordable option when considering improvements to your home. It can also help you save money on heating costs by allowing you to heat the spaces where you and your family spend time together.

Aesthetics

No one can dispute the allure of a fireplace and the calming effect it can have, making your home an escape from your hectic life. A simple facelift and upgrade can dramatically update the look and efficiency of your existing fireplace.

Family Time

With the popularity of mobile devices it isn’t surprising our national average screen time is staggering and steadily climbing. The result is less quality time together. Creating a comfortable and calming family room centered around a hearth will mean more quality time with those you love.

If you think it is time to replace your hearth, visit a specialty hearth retailer to see what suits your style and budget, or check out manufacturer and local retailer websites.