A step-by-step guide to keeping your home safe, warm, and efficient.

As the summer heat fades and we start thinking about pumpkin spice and chilly evenings, it’s the perfect time to prepare your wood-burning stove or fireplace for the cold months ahead. Waiting until the first frost to get everything ready can lead to rushed repairs, unexpected problems, or even safety hazards. By starting in August or September, you’ll have plenty of time to clean, inspect, and make any fixes before winter really sets in.

Start at the top – your chimney.

Your chimney is the gateway for smoke to leave your home safely, so it’s the first place to check. Remove the chimney cap and take a close look inside. If you notice a buildup of ash or soot around 1/4” thick or more, it’s time for a professional chimney sweep. Creosote buildup is a serious fire hazard, so addressing it before firing up your heat source is critical.

Don’t forget airflow.

Next, make sure nothing is blocking your outside air intake. Your appliance needs proper ventilation to burn efficiently and safely. A blocked intake can lead to poor fires or even dangerous backdrafts into your living space.

Check gaskets and seals.

Take a look at all the gaskets and door seals on your appliance. Are they cracked or worn? A simple “dollar bill test” can help you check: close a dollar bill in the door and try to pull it out. If it slides out easily, your gasket may need replacing. A tight seal keeps your stove efficient and safe, and prevents heat from escaping.

Wood matters.

Not all firewood is created equal. Use a moisture meter to check your logs – anything above 19% moisture is too wet for good burning. Wet wood produces more smoke, builds up creosote faster, and doesn’t heat your home as effectively. Stick to seasoned, dry wood for the best fires.

Look inside.

If your stove has a catalytic combustor, now is the time to inspect and service it according to manufacturer guidelines. Also, check fire bricks for cracks or warping, and inspect your stove for rust or other damage. Ensuring these components are in good shape will help your appliance last for years and operate safely.

Clean and test everything else.

Clean the glass so you can enjoy that beautiful fire. Test dampers and air vents to make sure they open, close, and seal properly. Check the floor and walls around your stove for heat-related wear or damage, and make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Proper clearances from walls and furniture are also critical for safety.

Call in the pros.

Even after you’ve gone through this checklist, having a certified technician from Quality Stoves and Spas give your appliance a professional once-over is always a good idea. We can catch issues you might miss and ensure everything is ready to run efficiently and safely.

By taking these steps now, you’ll avoid last-minute stress, keep your home safe, and enjoy cozy, worry-free fires all winter long. So grab a cup of coffee, get your checklist ready, and start prepping your stove or fireplace today – you’ll thank yourself when the first chilly evening arrives.