Fireplace & Safety

Just moved into a home with a fireplace? Before you light your first fire, run through this simple chimney safety checklist to be sure it is safe to use.

A sticking, warped, or rusted damper causes smoky rooms and high energy bills. Here are the common fireplace damper problems and how to fix them.

Wood stoves and open fireplaces place different demands on your chimney. Here is how their chimney care differs — and what stays the same.

Your firewood is the biggest thing you control about how cleanly your fireplace burns. Here is why seasoned wood beats green wood — and how to tell them apart.

A chimney fire — even a small one — can crack your liner and leave hidden damage. Here is exactly what to do afterward to keep your home safe.

Chimney fires are dangerous and almost entirely preventable. They come down to creosote buildup and how you burn — here is how to control both.

A working gas fireplace is very safe, but a dirty burner or blocked vent can raise carbon monoxide indoors. Here are the warning signs and safeguards.

Gas fireplaces are clean and convenient but still need annual maintenance. Here is what a yearly service covers and the warning signs to watch for.

When smoke comes into your living room instead of up the chimney, you have a draft problem. Here are the common causes — and how to fix them.

A smelly fireplace usually comes down to creosote, moisture, animals, or a draft problem — and most odors are fixable once you find the cause.