Wood Stove
Routine Care Task
Clean and inspect stove and stovepipe
Chimney fires can be very dangerous, and this task helps to prevent them.
Priority
Timing: June (yearly)
NOTE: The tasks and timings shown here for your Wood Stove are based on a single-family home located in Massachusetts with a default set of home care goals and priorities.
If you setup your Home-Wizard personal home manager for a different location with different home care goals, your recommended home care program can have different tasks and timings for your {home feature}.
How To
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A professional chimney sweep will thoroughly clean your fireplace and chimney and will check for defects, typically for about $90 to $150. Or you can do the work yourself, if you have the proper brushes and vacuums and don't mind the mess or hassle.
The tasks include:
Inspect for creosote deposits in the flue. If greater than 1/8" in thickness, then the chimney flue should be cleaned.
Check the firebox for damaged brick or mortar.
Check the damper for operation and snug fit. Also inspect for cracks, pitting or rusted-out sections.
Check the flue for broken or damaged bricks on the flue liner. Cracking is a sign that there has been a flue fire and is a potentially serious problem.
Helpful Accessories
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Use black gasket fo better aesthetics and higher performance
consumer reviews, choices, prices
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Allows you to properly use and maintain your woodstove
consumer reviews, choices, prices
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Wood piles should be kept at least 6 inches off the ground
consumer reviews, choices, prices
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Reduces chimney fire caused by creosote
consumer reviews, choices, prices
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Seals heated air if fireplace is not in use
consumer reviews, choices, prices
Benefits
The benefits of this task are high, as it helps prevent dangerous and costly chimney fires.
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Health & Safety
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Avoiding Unscheduled Repairs
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Maintaining Value
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Energy Savings
Costs
The cost of this task is moderate, and requires the scheduling of a qualified chimney sweep.