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The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) says that chimneys and their associated elements like fireplaces, vents, or stoves should be cleaned at least once a year before the start of seasonal use. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, a chimney should be cleaned when there is 1/8 inch of soot buildup. If there’s more than that, creosote—a flammable byproduct of burning wood—can form and increase the risk of a chimney fire.

An outdoor wood furnace might be worth it, depending on your situation. For example, if you can easily (and affordably) acquire wood to burn, then an outside furnace could make sense. Investing in an outdoor furnace might also be worth it if you live in a rural area without a reliable energy source.

While you have some flexibility in the types of wood you can use in your outdoor furnace, it's important to make wise choices for optimal performance and efficiency. Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and cherry, are generally recommended for their higher energy content and cleaner burn. These hardwoods produce more heat per volume and tend to produce fewer creosote deposits, which can accumulate and cause a chimney fire, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

There are fire codes for a fireplace mantel made of wood or other combustible material. The mantel must be mounted at least six inches away from the fireplace opening on all sides with a non-combustible material—like stone or brick—installed between the mantel and fireplace. Building codes and regulations will vary based on your location, so before beginning the project, research the requirements in your area.