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The damper, located just above the firebox, can open or close the chimney flue. The damper should remain closed unless there’s a fire burning in the fireplace. Closing the damper prevents energy loss through the chimney and cold air from seeping into the home during the winter. Opening the damper helps maintain airflow when there is a fire and prevents smoke and gases from venting into the house.

An outlet can start a fire if it has blown a fuse, or is sparking, overheating, or smells burnt. Prevent electrical fires by unplugging the device connected to the outlet and hiring an electrician to determine and fix the outlet’s issue. If the outlet stays hot or isn't working, you should fix it.

Having a pellet stove can indeed raise your insurance rates since they're a relatively common cause of fires in the home. However, rate increases vary by insurance provider so you should reach out to yours to determine exactly how much your rates might increase with a new pellet stove install.

Your pilot light needs to be on whenever you’re using your furnace to heat your home. However, you might decide to turn it off during the summer months, when you don’t need heating. Doing this can save you a little bit of money on utility costs—just make sure you’re fine with relighting your pilot light (or hiring a professional to do it) when fall comes around and you’re ready to get cozy.