Is a fireplace hearth necessary?

• <div><p>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.</p></div>

How do I know if my chimney is safe to use?

• <div><p>One of the best ways to know your chimney is good to go on any given night is to simply look up into your flue with a flashlight. If you see a thick buildup of creosote—a shiny, dark substance that looks like tar—it’s best to have your fireplace professionally cleaned before you go ahead with the burn. Additionally, having your fireplace professionally inspected once per year can also help increase your peace of mind and keep your family and your home safe.</p></div>

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Q: How long do you burn a creosote log by itself?

• <div><p>In general, it will take about 90 minutes to burn the creosote sweeping log by itself, allowing it to work its magic. This may be longer or shorter depending on the conditions of your chimney.</p></div>

Q: Can you test your fire extinguisher with a small amount?

• <div><p>Testing a fire extinguisher by discharging even a small amount will void the warranty on the product. Pushing down the pressure pin on top and waiting to see if it pops up is the best way to ensure it&rsquo;s still pressurized. If you&rsquo;re concerned about your extinguisher, hire an expert for a professional inspection. </p></div>

Q: Is it better to leave a pilot light on or turn it off?

• <div><p>Your pilot light needs to be on whenever you&rsquo;re using your furnace to heat your home. However, you might decide to turn it off during the summer months, when you don&rsquo;t need heating. Doing this can save you a little bit of money on utility costs&mdash;just make sure you&rsquo;re fine with relighting your pilot light (or hiring a professional to do it) when fall comes around and you&rsquo;re ready to get cozy.</p></div>

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Fire Pit Installation questions, answered by experts

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.

In general, it will take about 90 minutes to burn the creosote sweeping log by itself, allowing it to work its magic. This may be longer or shorter depending on the conditions of your chimney.

Testing a fire extinguisher by discharging even a small amount will void the warranty on the product. Pushing down the pressure pin on top and waiting to see if it pops up is the best way to ensure it’s still pressurized. If you’re concerned about your extinguisher, hire an expert for a professional inspection.

One of the best ways to know your chimney is good to go on any given night is to simply look up into your flue with a flashlight. If you see a thick buildup of creosote—a shiny, dark substance that looks like tar—it’s best to have your fireplace professionally cleaned before you go ahead with the burn. Additionally, having your fireplace professionally inspected once per year can also help increase your peace of mind and keep your family and your home safe.

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.

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