Get matched with top fireplace pros in Selby, SD

To reset an electric fireplace, first shut the unit off using the control panel or remote control. Make sure the unit is entirely shut down, then unplug it from the power outlet. Wait five to 10 minutes, then plug the fireplace back in and turn it on. This process should reset the electric fireplace. After resetting, make sure to set the thermostat, timer, and other programmable settings to suit your preferences.

Both wood-burning stoves and fireplaces can emit smoke and other combustion gases that are harmful to human health. According to the American Lung Association, wood smoke can lead to coughing and wheezing as well as long-term health impacts like increased risks for heart attacks and stroke. 

Newer models meet the modern efficiency standards set in 2020 by the Environmental Protection Agency for cleaner burning, more efficient wood stoves. Regular maintenance can also minimize smoke.

For most brick cleaning jobs, including fireplace bricks, use a masonry sponge and a gentle cleaner. A simple solution of equal parts water and vinegar, or a few drops of dish soap in a bowl of water, can effectively remove grime. For tougher stains, you can use a dedicated masonry or fireplace cleaner. It is crucial to wet the bricks thoroughly with water before applying any cleaning solution to prevent the brick from absorbing it, and to rinse the surface completely afterward. Harsher cleaners containing bleach or ammonia should only be used as a last resort, and they should never be mixed together.

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.