As with other household appliances, fireplaces and wood stoves have to be used under safety guidelines and precautions. They should be professionally installed, properly maintained and cleaned on a regular basis. This includes all chimney systems.

Place it to heat the areas where you spend the most time: If you just stick it in the basement - if that basement is not being used for living space - most of the heat will just be absorbed into the ceiling and will not transfer up into the areas you want. Pick the right size: Bigger is not necessarily better because a large, under-fueled firebox will not throw the heat you want. In essence, the unit still uses more fuel for less heat coverage. If you fill it up, a larger load may overheat the area where it is installed. In both cases you use more fuel. Start small: Firing up a large load can produce stress on a cold firebox and chimney. Use kindling and small wood scraps and refrain from using solvents and liquid fuels to start combustion.

Use the right fuel: In the case of wood-burning stoves or fireplaces your selection of wood makes all the difference. It is always best to use hardwood (oak, beech, maple, ask, etc.) that has been properly dried. Softwood produces more creosote build-up in the chimney and could increase the chance of a chimney fire. As well, it doesn't burn as hot. And don't put in mill-ends, painted wood or any wood dipped in a preservative. Airborne poisons may be given off during combustion that could be transferred to the living area.

Inspections: Regular inspections by a certified mason or fire station official is recommended. In fact many homes cannot be sold without first certifying the fireplace or wood stove.

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