While hardwoods are the best woods to burn, a few types of woods should be avoided when burning. Wood that has not had time to season, or “green wood,” should be avoided. The extra water in the wood makes it smoke horribly, which is not a quality you want. Additionally, it’s best to avoid any wood that is manufactured or has been treated, including coated or sealed wood, painted wood, or pressure-treated wood. These woods have chemicals that will be released into your air when burned and can cause health problems.

Yes, removing a chimney is a difficult and major undertaking. Chimneys often provide structural support to a home, so if it's a load-bearing structure, you'll need to take extra precautions to maintain your home's integrity. A project of this complexity typically requires a structural engineer, a masonry contractor, and a demolition crew. The removal process may involve taking the chimney out brick by brick from inside the walls. The cost for chimney removal can range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the job's complexity. Due to the difficulty and cost, some homeowners opt to remove the fireplace and seal the chimney at the top and bottom, sometimes also removing the visible exterior portion at the roofline.

Pellet stoves are designed to run for several hours at a time. Running them for an entire day is not uncommon. More advanced models can run continuously for up to 48 hours, making them ideal if you live in extremely cold conditions and don't want to keep refueling the stove.

While it is possible to clean your own chimney and fireplace with the appropriate brushes and safety gear, hiring a professional is often recommended. A professional ensures thorough creosote removal and compliance with safety standards. They can also safely access high or hidden areas that may be difficult for a homeowner to reach, providing comprehensive assurance that the job is completed correctly and safely.