How to Keep Your Fireplace &
Chimney Clean in New England

When it comes to harsh winters and extreme cold, look no further than the New England area. When the temperature starts dropping and the winds pick up, nothing feels better than stoking a fire and letting it crackle. But before you settle in for a cozy evening by the fire, it’s essential to ensure your fireplace and chimney are clean and safe. From DIY maintenance to professional cleaning by The Maids, here’s what you can do to keep your fireplace burning brightly and safely. 

Why Fireplace and Chimney Cleaning Matters in New England

During the winter months, homeowners from Boston to Burlington rely on their fireplaces, but improper maintenance and lack of regular cleaning can lead to a buildup of creosote, soot, and other debris. Without proper cleaning, this buildup can cause chimney fires, poor air quality, and reduced heating efficiency.

Additionally, New England’s constant freeze-thaw cycles can cause structural issues in chimneys, making regular inspections even more critical. Water damage and cracks can compromise both safety and functionality in fireplaces. 

Signs Your Fireplace and Chimney Need Cleaning

Knowing when to clean your fireplace and chimney can prevent serious problems the more you use it. Watch for these warning signs:

Excessive smoke

A blocked or dirty chimney can lead to smoke entering the home when your fireplace is lit. This can drastically affect the air quality in your home.

Strong, unpleasant odors

This one is self-explanatory, but an unpleasant odor coming from the fireplace, even when it’s not in use, means it’s time for a cleaning. 

Black or brown staining

If your household relies heavily on the fireplace in the wintertime, ensure that you’re keeping the walls around it sparkly and clean. 

Reduced draft

Having trouble keeping your fire burning? Cleaning your chimney/fireplace can make all the difference in helping your fires burn brighter and longer.  

If you notice any of these signs, whether your fireplace is in use or not—it’s time for a thorough cleaning.

Essential Fireplace Cleaning Tasks You Can Do

While professional chimney sweeping is necessary for safety, there are several fireplace maintenance tasks New England homeowners can handle between professional visits:

Remove Ashes Regularly

Once ashes have completely cooled (wait at least 24 hours after your last fire), scoop them into a container and dispose of them outside, away from your home and any flammable materials. Leaving a thin layer of ash behind can help better insulate your next fire, but don’t let it build up more than an inch.

Remove Soot & Debris

Use a stiff brush and vacuum to remove soot and debris from the walls and floor of your fireplace. A mixture of warm water and mild dish soap works well for scrubbing the interior surfaces. For tougher stains, make a paste with baking soda and water.

Wipe Down Glass Doors

If your fireplace has glass doors, they likely accumulate soot quickly. Clean them with a specialized fireplace glass cleaner.

Clean the Hearth and Surrounding Area

Sweep and vacuum the hearth regularly to prevent tracked-in soot and ash. Depending on your hearth material (brick, stone, or tile), use appropriate cleaners to keep it looking fresh.

Maintain the Exterior

Dust and wipe down the fireplace mantel, surround, and any decorative elements to keep your living space looking its best.

When to Call Professional Chimney Sweeps

The National Fire Protection Association recommends having your chimney inspected at least once a year, and heavy fireplace usage means you shouldn’t skip this crucial step. Professional chimney sweeps have specialized tools and training to:

•       Remove creosote buildup throughout the entire chimney system
•       Inspect the chimney structure for cracks, deterioration, or water damage
•       Check the chimney cap and crown for damage
•       Ensure the flue damper operates correctly
•       Remove animal nests, leaves, and other obstructions
•       Identify potential carbon monoxide risks

Schedule your annual inspection before you start using your fireplace regularly. This timing allows you to address any repairs before the cold season begins.

Additional Maintenance Tips for New England Homeowners

New England’s extreme northeast climate during the winter months presents unique challenges for fireplace and chimney maintenance. Here are some additional signs to look out for, plus maintenance steps you can take. 

Install a Quality Chimney Cap

Heavy snow and ice can damage uncapped chimneys. A properly installed cap prevents water infiltration, keeps animals out, and stops downdrafts during windstorms.

Monitor for Ice Dams

The freeze-thaw cycles can cause water to seep into chimney masonry and then freeze, leading to cracks and deterioration. Ensure your chimney has proper flashing and waterproofing.

Burn Seasoned Hardwood

Using properly seasoned hardwood (dried for at least six months) produces less creosote than softwoods or unseasoned wood. This is especially important given how frequently New England residents use their fireplaces.

Keep Your Damper Closed

When the fireplace isn’t in use, keep the damper closed to prevent cold drafts from entering your home. Winter winds can significantly impact your heating bills if warm air escapes through an open chimney.

Let The Maids Help with Your Fireplace Cleaning

While chimney sweeping requires specialized expertise, The Maids is here to help you with regular cleaning and maintenance of your fireplace and chimney. Getting professional help can keep your fireplace area looking beautiful and your home tidy. Our team can tackle the soot, ash dust, and grime that accumulates around your fireplace, leaving your hearth and surrounding areas spotless.

We’ll ensure your fireplace remains an inviting focal point in your home. Let us handle the messy work so you can focus on enjoying cozy evenings by the fire.

Ready to keep your New England home clean and comfortable all winter long? Contact The Maids today to schedule your cleaning service and learn more about how we can help maintain your fireplace during extreme winter weather.