This guide shares information about the cost to remove a gas fireplace, including the average price to additionally remove the breast, stack, and chimney flue as well as which experts will be needed to complete the project.
How to Empty Your Fireplace Ash Dump Properly
Channel your inner Cinderella
Get quotes from chimney repair specialists near you
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Get quotes from chimney repair specialists near you
No obligation · 100% free
SKILL LEVEL
Simple
COMPLETION TIME
2 hours
COST
$25–$50
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Metal ash bucket with lid
- Fireplace shovel or small spade
- Heavy-duty fire-resistant gloves
- Broom
- Dustpan
SUPPLIES
- N95 face mask
- Heavy duty trash bags
- Old newspapers (optional)
Keeping your fireplace ash dump clean isn’t just about tidiness—it’s essential for your safety and the health of your home. Ashes can emit carbon monoxide even when the fire is out, and their acidity can erode metal fireplace components over time. Here’s how to empty your fireplace ash dump to ensure your hearth stays safe and efficient.
Prep the Area
Photo: Marina Gordejeva / Adobe StockBefore getting started, open a nearby window for ventilation and put on your face mask. Next, grab a drop cloth or old newspaper and place it around the fireplace to catch any debris. Ensure you have a metal bucket with a lid handy for collecting the ashes, and keep your fireplace shovel and broom within reach.
Open the Ash Dump Door
The ash dump is usually in the center of the firebox floor. It has a small metal door that swings open, allowing you to sweep the ashes directly into the ash pit below. Before you open it, ensure the area on top of the door is clear of debris. To do this, sweep the debris toward one side.
Remove Fireplace Ashes
Photo: Bruce Laurance / Stockbyte / Getty ImagesUsing your fireplace shovel, scoop the ashes from the fireplace grate and floor into the ash dump. Close the door securely once you’ve swept the ashes into the dump.
Clean the Ash Pit
Ashes swept into your ash dump wind up in the ash pit. The cavity is beneath the firebox, and most homeowners can access it via a cleanout door in the basement or sometimes on an exterior wall.
To scoop out the ashes, use your fireplace shovel or a small spade. Put the ashes in the metal bucket, then affix the lid. Afterward, use a vacuum to remove any remaining ashes. For hard-to-reach areas, you can use a scrub brush. Remember to clean your vacuum thoroughly when you’re done cleaning.
Dispose of the Ashes Safely
Photo: Nishi Sharma / Adobe StockTake the ash bucket to a safe disposal area outside that is not near anything combustible. Cool ashes can be disposed of in your trash in a heavy-duty trash bag. If you are not ready to dispose of the ashes, keep the metal ash bucket in a cool, dry place on a stone, concrete, or brick surface at least 10 feet away from your home.
If you're disposing of wood ash rather than ash from artificial logs, consider using it for composting. Wood ash is rich in nutrients and alkaline, making it a great addition to your compost pile.
Store Your Ash Bucket
Once it is empty, store your empty ash bucket outside on a non-combustible surface. As a reminder, keep it at least 10 feet away from your home and flammable materials. Also, make sure the bucket is securely covered with a tight-fitting lid.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY cleaning is a cost-effective way to maintain your fireplace. However, it comes with potential risks, such as exposure to carbon monoxide, hidden hot embers, and the possibility of missing significant issues, like creosote buildup or structural damage. Additionally, it may not be a suitable project for people with respiratory problems.
Hiring a local chimney and fireplace repair professional ensures the job is done thoroughly and safely. Their work often includes an inspection for other potential problems. For many homeowners, it's worth the expense—there's nothing like knowing your fireplace is in top condition and free from hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chimney repairs reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.7★ avg. • 13 total reviews
- Julio V.
Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
The Waterworks - Brent C.
Carpet repair done well. Scheduling was easy. Showed up on time.
BR Flooring Installation - Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Donald L.
Ace Fireplace Services came to the rescue for my chimney repair. They were quick to pinpoint the issue and worked their magic to fix it. My chimney is now in excellent shape, and I'm a satisfied customer.
Ace Fireplace Services - Nathaniel A.
100% satisfied with the work done by Supreme Brick & Chimney. Josh responded to my Angi request very quickly and squeezed our house into his schedule only a couple business days out. The chimney cleaning process was extremely clean with ZERO dirt going anywhere besides in Josh's vacuum. Very...
Supreme brick & chimney - Lisa S.
On Sunday 2/26 I requested quotes via Angi from 4 refrigerator repair businesses. Northwest Appliance responded to me Monday morning (2/27) and my refrigerator was repaired by noon the same day. Great communication, they did everything they said they would. The technician had the parts on...
- Nicholas B.
Great experience all together. Dog friendly, courteous, great results and honest with recommendations. Will certainly be using Cardinal in the future for any carpet repairs
Cardinal Carpet Care & Repair - Michael H.
Description says they handle window repair including rotten hardwood - they called me back right away but didnâ t leave a voicemail. I followed up 3 days later and they said they donâ t do that kind of work.
Window-Gurus - Bill H.
They arrived on time repairs performed quickly very porvesinal
Property-Tech Industries - David S.
Mike and his crew did a great job working through a very challenging task. The job required a full demolition of our ceiling, removing the blown in insulation and removing all the material from the site daily. It involved multiple inspections from the city and many challenges to get the...
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The homeowners guide to chimney repairs
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