Get matched with top fire pit installation pros in Robinson, IL

Wood-burning fireplaces typically make homeowners insurance more expensive, simply because they increase the risk for a fire in your home. Gas and electric inserts are less likely to bring up your insurance rates, but you should always speak with your agent to understand how installing any type of fireplace will affect your premiums.

A hot fire alone will not remove significant creosote buildup and can be dangerous, as it risks causing a chimney fire. While the warmth from a fire can help loosen stuck tar, making treatments like creosote logs more effective, it is not a substitute for proper cleaning. For existing creosote, the safest and most effective method is to have your chimney professionally cleaned by a chimney sweep.

Baseboard heaters are generally safe and efficient, but they can be dangerous if safety precautions are not followed. To ensure safety, do not block the heaters with furniture, drapes, open doors, or other items, and maintain clear space around them for proper heat flow. Regularly check that items have not fallen on or under the units. If you have children or pets, make sure they stay clear of hot heaters to avoid burns. For added safety, consider models with an automatic shut-off feature and have them professionally tested. If a problem occurs with a baseboard heater, always contact a qualified electrician or HVAC professional for repairs.

A fireplace hearth is necessary in most areas per building codes, especially for gas and wood-burning fireplaces. Electric fireplaces may not require a hearth, so check local building codes or ask a pro for guidance if you’re leaning toward electric. A fireplace hearth can decrease the risk of flying embers creating a fire and burning your home down. That’s why fireproof material, like tile, is used for the hearth.