New fireplace.....?

Question

I'm moving into a new apartment that has a fireplace, and I've never had one before. Is it safe to leave it burning while I'm sleeping? Also, how often am I supposed to have it cleaned/do i clean it and what do I use? Thanks.
Dave

Answer 1

First I would get in writing the last time the chimney was cleaned out by a chimney sweeper. That is the biggest safety measure. To prevent a chimney fire.Then, No I would not leave it burning at night unless it was almost out and you have a really fine screened fireplace screen that wouldn't let a spark get through, otherwise you take a chance. You need to shovel out all the ashes when it seems to not want to burn, when they are built up and take too much of the fireplace so u can't burn wood. That's a judgement call really but some ashes are fine and they will burn to finer ashes each time you use it. The ashes are great for roses, grapes, all pine trees. It's called pot ashe and is nutrients for acid loving plants. So, if you need that use it.

Answer 2

Buy glass doors that fit the opening. Never leave it unattended. I use a shop vac to clean up the ashes, but usually not after a few fires. The ashes add to the look of the fire. If the flame is out but embers still glow it is safe to close the doors and go to bed.

Hahahahaha, I'm laughing at Miss Mary, so dumb, poor thing. Pot ash is not potash and ashes are the worse thing you can put on acid loving plants. Fireplace ashes are a source of lye, (NaOH) a strong alkali.

Potash (or carbonate of potash) is an impure form of potassium carbonate (K2CO3) mixed with other potassium salts.

Answer 3

clean it every yr.......dont leave it going at night, if needed install Glass doors on it for the final burn so that u dont have to leve the damper open all night and let the room air go up the stack.....just close the doors and leave the damper open and save money