Fireplaces

Most people have their own special technique for lighting fires and keeping them burning to their satisfaction, so we offer no advice on that subject. We do wish to remind you, however, that unless the fireplace is in use, the damper should be closed to prevent heat loss from the house (except when intentionally used as a means of ventilation). Be sure to open the damper before lighting the fire as a room can be filled with smoke in an amazingly short time.

In newer homes, air tight fireplaces will require their own air supply directly from the outside. Fireplaces and other open flame appliances should never be left unattended when in operation.

It may be noted that water appearing in the firebox may not necessarily be a defect, it may simply be a result of rain falling directly down the flue.