Get matched with top fire pit installation pros in Clayton, MO

You should schedule a fireplace inspection at least once a year, per the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). However, this is the minimum requirement even if you’re diligent with fireplace maintenance between uses. If you suspect your fireplace is malfunctioning, schedule one sooner to avoid fire hazards or the release of harmful emissions like carbon monoxide in your home.

Pellet stoves are safer than wood stoves in many ways. They don’t produce as many creosote deposits as wood stoves do, they create less smoke, and the flames are contained, decreasing the risk of any sparks or embers creating a house fire. Pellet stoves also burn more cleanly and efficiently than wood stoves do.

Yes, there are regulations on using wood stoves, particularly concerning emissions and installation standards. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets emission limits for wood stoves to ensure they burn cleaner and more efficiently. Additionally, local building codes may have specific requirements for installation and venting, so it's essential to check with local authorities before installing or upgrading your stove.

Although you can put a smoke detector on a shelf, the NFPA recommends mounting one on the ceiling or a wall (within 12 inches of the ceiling). If you place your smoke alarm on a shelf, ensure it’s away from drafty, damp, or dusty areas and not near cooking appliances, heat sources, or fluorescent lights.