There's nothing quite like a crackling fire on a cold winter evening. But before you light that first fire of the season, it's important to make sure your fireplace and chimney are ready for safe use. Follow this comprehensive checklist to prepare your fireplace for winter.
Step 1: Schedule a Professional Inspection
The most important step is having your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned. The NFPA recommends annual inspections, ideally in late summer or early fall. A professional will check for creosote buildup, cracks, blockages, and deteriorating masonry.
Step 2: Check the Damper
Make sure the damper opens and closes smoothly. Open it fully and look up — you should see daylight. A damaged damper lets cold air into your home when the fireplace isn't in use.
Step 3: Inspect the Firebox
Look for cracks in the firebrick, loose mortar, and debris. Small cracks can be repaired with refractory cement, but larger damage needs professional attention.
Step 4: Test Smoke and CO Detectors
Test every detector, replace batteries, and replace units older than 10 years. Ensure you have detectors on every level of your home.
Step 5: Stock Up on Firewood
Use seasoned hardwood (oak, maple, ash) dried for 6–12 months. Store it off the ground, covered on top, with open sides for airflow. Keep woodpiles at least 20 feet from your home.
Never burn: Treated wood, painted wood, plywood, cardboard, trash, or Christmas trees.
Step 6: Gather Fire-Starting Supplies
Keep kindling, newspaper or fire starters, long matches, fireplace tools, and a metal ash bucket near your fireplace.
Step 7: Clear the Area
Move furniture, rugs, and curtains at least 3 feet from the fireplace. Remove flammable mantel decorations and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Step 8: Check Your Fireplace Screen
Ensure the screen covers the entire firebox opening with no holes or tears, and stands securely.
Your Winter Fireplace Checklist
Lighting Your First Fire of the Season
- Open the damper fully
- Prime the flue by holding a lit newspaper up the chimney for a minute
- Place kindling and newspaper on the grate
- Add 2-3 small logs on top
- Light the newspaper and kindling
- Once burning well, add larger logs as needed
- Never leave a fire unattended
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start preparing my fireplace for winter?
Ideally in late August or September. This gives you time to schedule an inspection, complete any needed repairs, and stock firewood before the first cold snap. Chimney sweeps are busiest in October and November, so booking early means more flexible scheduling.
Can I use my fireplace if I haven't had it inspected this year?
We strongly recommend against it. An uninspected chimney may have creosote buildup, animal nests, or structural damage that could cause a fire or carbon monoxide leak. A quick inspection gives you peace of mind.
What's the best type of firewood to burn?
Seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, hickory, and ash burn the hottest and cleanest. Wood should be split and dried for at least 6–12 months. Avoid softwoods (pine, spruce) for regular use — they produce more creosote.
How do I know if my firewood is properly seasoned?
Seasoned wood has visible cracks on the cut ends, sounds hollow when two pieces are knocked together, and feels lighter than fresh-cut wood. A moisture meter (under $20) can confirm — look for readings below 20%.
Get Your Fireplace Winter-Ready
Homeowners in Stroudsburg, East Stroudsburg, Mount Pocono, and the Pocono Mountain area rely on AAA Chimney Sweeping for pre-season inspections and cleanings. Book now before the cold sets in.
Book Pre-Season Service: 610-616-6193