Fall is officially here, and as the temperatures continue to drop, many of us are seeking the warmth and comfort of our fireplaces. But before you stoke the fire, we’d like to remind you that some things are unsuitable for burning. Avoiding these items will help you prevent dangerous fires, maintain a safe home environment, and ensure the longevity of your chimney. Here’s a rundown of seven things you should NEVER burn in your fireplace.
1. Plastic and Synthetic Materials
Plastic, rubber, and synthetic materials can create hazardous fumes when burned. These materials can release toxic chemicals, including dioxins and heavy metals, which harm your health and the environment. In addition, burning plastics can cause dangerous creosote buildup in your chimney, increasing the risk of a chimney fire.
2. Treated or Painted Wood
Painted or chemically-treated wood should never be burned in your fireplace. The chemicals used in treating and painting wood can emit harmful fumes and produce toxic creosote buildup. This not only poses a health risk but can also lead to dangerous chimney fires. Opt for untreated, natural firewood to ensure a clean and safe burn.
3. Cardboard and Paper Products
While tossing cardboard boxes or old newspapers into your fireplace might be tempting, these items quickly burn at high temperatures, causing unpredictable flames that can ignite nearby combustibles. Additionally, burning paper products can contribute to excessive ash and creosote buildup, which can clog your chimney and lead to a chimney fire.
4. Food Waste
Throwing waste like food scraps, pizza boxes, and greasy containers into your fireplace is a major no-no. These materials can produce unpleasant odors, create excessive smoke, and cause a messy build-up in your fireplace and chimney. Food waste can also attract pests and critters to your chimney—another problem you want to avoid.
5. Household Trash
Household trash, including batteries, electronics, and old clothing, should never be burned in your fireplace. These materials can release harmful chemicals and cause dangerous flare-ups. Burning trash can also lead to corrosive ash and residue buildup, damaging your fireplace and chimney over time.
6. Coal
While coal was a popular heating fuel in the past, it is not suitable for modern fireplaces. Burning coal can produce dangerous gases and excessive amounts of soot and ash.
7. Unseasoned Wood
Using unseasoned or wet wood in your fireplace is a recipe for disaster. Unseasoned wood burns inefficiently, causing excess smoke and creosote build-up. This buildup can obstruct airflow and increase the risk of a chimney fire.
What About Accelerants?
NEVER start your fireplace with an accelerant such as lighter fluid, kerosene, or gasoline. These are all highly flammable and can spread significant, unexpected fire flare-ups into your home.
Keeping Safe in the Burning Season
Keeping your fireplace safe and functional requires smart choices about what you burn. Avoiding the items noted above will keep your home and family safe and extend the lifespan of your heating system. If you have questions about your fireplace and chimney, contact the CCP-certified chimney sweeps at Admiralty Chimney. We provide chimney cleanings, inspections, and repairs in Southern New Hampshire and Northern Massachusetts.
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