Kitchen and Bath Fireplace Basics

Posted on April 26, 2012 by Joshua

Fireplaces are now an integral part of most every home’s family room or living room. A new innovation in electric and gas fireplace lets homeowners install this heart-warming and cherish feature anywhere they want – including bathrooms and kitchen – because this new option requires no or little ventilation.

A fireplace installed in the home increases the home’s value, provides warmth and gives a good ambiance. For the new kitchen feature, it can also serve as cooking source. If you know already the function of your fireplace, doing some research is necessary for you to be able to choose the exact fireplace for your need. Getting information from a fireplace professional, chef and kitchen designer may help you decide on the right fireplace in your kitchen.

The first thing that you should work on is to determine your needs. Consider where you want to place your fireplace and your intention for putting it. Will your fireplace give you warmth during cold nights or will it just serve as highlight in your living room.  Consider next on how big or how small your fireplace will be. If your fireplace will be used to provide warmth, a bigger fireplace may be better to produce the right amount of heat to accommodate your space.

Vent-free fireplaces, like the name suggest, needs no venting system so it is much cheaper to install. They produce extremely hot flame producing lesser carbon monoxide.  Be careful though in using this type of fireplace because this does not suit small baths and kitchen because of the amount of heat it produces. Since it has no vent, it may produce too much moisture which is a result of combustion. Both vent-free and direct vent fireplace require a supply of propane or natural gas to work.

Electric fireplace, on the other hand, is the next choice if you prefer to experience the feel and look of flames. The reflective panel and light bulbs give the feeling of flames. The new models of electric fireplace are better than the older models because it is more realistic. You can choose fireplace designs that will complement the look of your home because fireplace are available in granite, marble, brick and fieldstone.

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The 10 Commandments For Microwave Safety

Posted on April 14, 2012 by Joshua

Using microwave, like any other appliance, can be dangerous. Below are some microwave safety precautions in using microwave.

  1. Do not overcook or overheat foods. Doing this may increase the chance of burning the food, including yourself and the microwave. If you are not sure of the right time, cook shortly and then check the food if it is ready to eat, if not, set the microwave again for a short time.
  2. Give a few minutes before taking the food out of the microwave to prevent explosive situations and contact burns. Do not add anything like tea bag or sugar to a newly microwaved liquid while having the cup near your face or holding it.
  3. Pick foods with skins such as eggs, potatoes, sausages and eggplants to avoid explosion. Never microwave a whole egg with the shell on it.
  4. Covered foods are likely to jump or splatter out of the tray such as beans, etc. Use plastic wraps only if it is designed for microwave use but still do not let it touch the food so the chemicals will not touch the food either. It is better to just cover the food with another microwavable tray or dish or plate that is designed for that purpose.
  5. All manufactured paper products have chemicals. Do not use paper plates, grocery bags, butcher’s wrap, newspapers or other paper materials to heat the food or as food cover. Some white paper towels are microwaveable and you can use it for their specific purpose in the microwave. Oven cooking bags, parchment paper and wax paper are also safe for microwave use but do not overheat.
  6. Plastics have toxic materials and will melt in the microwave. Microwave may release the toxins in the plastics so make sure that they do not touch the food. Use microwaveable plastic wrap instead. Do not reheat Styrofoam, plastic containers, whipped topping bowls, and margarine tubs for reheating.
  7. Do not use metal items such as aluminium foil and containers, steel, wire ties and utensils in the microwave.
  8. Avoid cooking meats, cheese, eggs, breads and custards in the microwave.
  9. If the microwave catches fire, press the stop button and unplug it. Do not open the microwave or throw water in it. Let the fire burn out although it may damage your oven, you wouldn’t want to hurt yourself. Do not use microwave with broken window.
  10. Ensure that kids know how to operate the microwave.
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Four Main Paths To Chimney Damage

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Joshua

From daily observations of the chimney and fireplace, people may ask where and how the problem first arose. Oftentimes, it looks like a chicken – egg situation, debating which problem comes first. In the end, it only means that something needs to be done.

Explaining to people the process of how the problem started and effects of lack of maintenance and repair can affect whether or not you will do the repair and cleaning. To avoid complicated debates and information regarding chimney cleaning and problems, you need to break down the possible causes of chimney damage. Find out if the problem is due to more open joints, abused rain cover, or a worn crown. To find out the reason for these minor and major problems, do or see things one at a time.

The first pathway to consider is the latent defects. These are defects that are in your chimney since the installation which are not readily seen. While there are prefabricated chimney pipe and fireplaces that are manufactured systemically and are built and designed with the right guide, still, poor workmanship and uses of materials brought your fireplace and chimney in a bad condition. Masonry chimneys usually have latent defects such as hearth extensions, inoperative dampers, firebox limitations, unparged smoke chambers, open mortar joints, liners, missing liners and many more.

Wear and tear is the second pathway. Chimneys may wear out in due time due to exposure to outdoor environment and temperature changes and changes in interior temperature. Moisture is the third pathway. This one is the most destructive of all pathways. It may look subtle but the effect is very tremendous overtime. The fourth pathway is sudden occurrence such as lightning, high temperature fluctuations and appliance malfunction. Chimney fires and other similar events are also part of this pathway.

Doing a breakdown of chimney problems may help you easily detect the cause of problem and can give you the right solution to the customers. These pathways can help you explain how the problem started and which causes a specific problem. It can also help you and the customer focus on what really is the cause of the damage.

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What Exactly Is Chimney Sweeping?

Posted on April 4, 2012 by Joshua

The main reason for chimney sweeping is to prevent house and chimney fires and to prevent the hazards of dangerous fumes emissions from dirty or blocked heating appliances, chimneys and flue ways that enter the house potentially causing death to residents. Chimney sweeping also helps the environment by supporting the complete combustion of the fuel which prevents emission to the atmosphere.

Professional chimney sweeps will clean your chimney from bottom to top using the rods and brushes best suited for your chimney and appliance. Their high powered vacuum will ensure that no dust, dirt, creosote or soot will escape in your home. They will remove the creosote and ashes in your fireplace and appliance too. During the cleaning process, the chimney sweep will make sure that your home will stay clean and tidy. The entire sweeping procedure will guarantee a no-mess and worry-free customer.

Chimney maintenance is best achieved through mechanical sweeping done by trained professional chimney sweep as often as possible accompanied by annual inspections. Chimney sweeping not only strip off creosotes from the surface but also removes loose soot and creosotes in the fireplace or wood stove. Chimneys should be cared for and maintain properly. Unclean chimneys not only collect dirt but also increase the risk of compromising your home, you and your loved ones’ health through many factors. Un-swept chimneys can begin carbon monoxide poisoning inside your home. Lack of information and knowledge on how to clean your chimney is not just useless but dangerous as well.

Chimney sweeping includes consistent monitoring to avoid damage to your chimney. Damage chimneys are dangerous to home and can start fire.

A chimney and fireplace that is not well-maintained can cause problems such as:

  1. Smoke will fill your house instead of going out through the chimney. This will cause allergies and respiratory problems.
  2. Overlooked and neglected chimney can cause fire – the most common cause of home firs and is not covered by fire insurance.
  3. Additional expenses such as unnecessary repairs for – example – crack flue liners or misplaced covers. These expenses are way too big than a one-time chimney cleaning (and inspection) service.
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Dryer Vent Cleaning

Posted on March 30, 2012 by Joshua

Dryer needs consistent maintenance in to keep it in working properly. Unlike washing machine or dishwasher, dryer requires regular maintenance to keep it safe. If a dryer vent is working properly, lint is less likely to build up. Dryers with full size stack blows better than old dryers and dryers with small stack. Avoid vents that have turns and elbows to maximize blowing and prevent lint build up. Full size dryers with small vents may not require frequent cleaning. Some vents needs cleaning every 2 years depending on its work load. Dirty vents can be a fire hazard. A plugged vent causes a dryer to blow hotter which can boost possibility of catching fire. A dirty vent can be a link to other possible fire causes to start a fire. The other causes are dryer switches, thermostat failure, lint in the dryer, broken dryer hose, or missing or damaged lint screen.

The top 10 dryer vent problems are:

  • Nesting birds
  • Too long hose
  • Too many elbows and turns
  • Plugged screen
  • Plugged dryer
  • Plugged with lint
  • Plastic venting
  • Crushed dryer
  • Flaps shut
  • Loose or damage vent

The usual vent repair includes repairing vents or replacing them when needed, removing or replacing venting by removing minor sections in the drywall of laundry closets and running new vents by drilling new holes. Dryer blows hot air through the ducts, because of this, the shorter the duct means the better. The recommended length for ducts is 25 feet from the dryer to the outside. If your ducts have bends and turns, it will be shorter. Avoid having too many turns and long ducts as this can affect your dryer’s performance and can cause lint to build up. If your dryer works hard, it will soon wear out and may need repair or replacement. Some signs that your drier and vent is clogged are:

  • Clothes take longer time to dry
  • Heavy items like pants and towels are hot and even wet when the dryer stops
  • The dryer is hot
  • Totally no lint in the lint screen
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Follow These Dryer Safety Tips

Posted on March 21, 2012 by Joshua

There are many items that we use everyday which could be a potential hazard in our health and home. One of these appliances that we use regularly that may cause risk is the dryer. Many people are not aware of the possible dangers that dryers may impose to their lives. It is necessary to inspect your dryer regularly of excessive heat or blockage to spotting basic indications of your dryer’s poor performance. Two indications that your dryer may be clogged are clothes are hotter than normal after every cycle and heavy items like towels and pants take longer time to dry. Dryer fires may also happen due to unclean vents, lint build up and obstruction with the dryer.

Follow these safety guidelines to keep your dryer risk free:

  • If you are not 100% sure of how to install your dryer, hire a professional to install it for you. This is the best way to ensure that everything is done correctly, properly and safely. If you persist on installing them by yourself, follow the manual that comes along with the dryer and make sure you do everything it says.
  • Keep your dryer vent clean. Avoid lint build up as well as other debris as this may cause a fire. Clean the lint filter regularly after every use and put it back properly always. Disconnect the duct and then clean it using a vacuum or you may hire a professional to do the cleaning to ensure that everything has been taken care of.
  • Never dry clothes that have oil spill or anything flammable. The heat inside the dryer may cause it to spark even after washing them. Air-dry them instead to prevent dangers.
  • Ensure that you plug the dryer to an outlet that can carry the total load. Avoid using extension cords for dryers.
  • Maintain a clean area near your dryer and do not stack clothes and other items on top of the dryer.
  • Avoid leaving your dryer unattended while operating.
  • As much as possible, install a smoke detector in your laundry area to know if fire has started.
  • Always turn off your dryer as soon as you finish working with them.
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Don’t Fall for Chimney Repair Scams

Posted on March 14, 2012 by Joshua

There is a scam that is spreading in the U.S. that involves chimney inspection and cleaning. This scam is on the rise because many people are not well knowledgeable about chimneys and fireplace so it is easy for the scammers to fool their victims.

A chimney inspection and cleaning scam works like this:

A scammer will contact you either by phone or email or any means of communication. He will offer a special chimney service that is very tempting because of its super low price – usually around $39 to $40. It’s as if they did some research about you because sometimes they know if you have just moved in to your home or not. If you are a new resident, they will claim that the previous residents have gotten their services in inspecting and cleaning their chimneys. They can even provide names of these people to make you believe.

As soon as they get inside your home, they will make horrible stories of how dangerous your chimney condition is. They will conduct inspection and will inform you that your chimney is severely damaged or that you need to buy a new chimney cap. They may even carry in props like small concrete samples or dead birds which they will claim came from your chimney. These scammers will scare you about carbon monoxide poisoning and will tell you that you are lucky to be alive.

Another strategy that these scammers do is that they will tell you that you need to replace your chimney liner even though they are still on good working condition. Liners are expensive and much worst – they will replace a good liner with a new liner that is not perfectly installed or a fake liner which can be very dangerous.

To prevent being a victim of this scam, it is advisable that you do not fall for prices that are hard to believe (extremely low price in this case). The usual chimney inspection costs around $75 and chimney cleaning for $150. Check the company if they have license and covers liability insurance. It may be safe to do the inspection on your own, do some research on how to know if your chimney needs cleaning or not. Otherwise, seek professional help on your own and do not trust those who are offering themselves especially for an unbelievable offer.

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Chimneys Are NOT Maintenance Free

Posted on March 10, 2012 by Joshua

Aside from giving décor and adding curb appeal to your home, some people love chimneys because they think that they are maintenance-free. The main function of the chimney is to release smoke and gases from the home, and bear a burning fireplace, furnace and woodstove. It also helps your home to breathe and circulate air just like what your windows and kitchen vents are doing for your home.  But unlike any other venting materials, your chimney may need maintenance.

As you enjoy the gentle and warm fire in your fireplace, there is a sense of enjoyment and comfort that you may experience – and the condition of your chimney is far behind your thoughts. It is necessary to give it some thought before actually using your fireplace and chimney so that you will be able to fully enjoy the experience. This is because a dirty chimney can damage and destroy and cause fire in your home and lives of the people in your home.

Wood stoves and fireplaces function to give heat in the home through wood and fuel fires. The chimney connected to your fireplace or wood stove expels the byproducts while heating. These are stuffs that are produced while burning the wood such as small wood elements, smoke, tar fog, gases, water vapor, hydrocarbon volatile and other various minerals. The remaining deposits that stick to your chimney wall are known as creosote. It is usually color brown or black and has a flaky, sticky, crusty and firm tar-like appearance. Creosotes are very flammable and can cause fire especially if the buildup has reached a considerable amount that may trigger fire inside the chimney. Chimney sweeps are very particular in checking the creosote indie the chimneys. Creosotes may build up depending on many factors such as limited supply of air, woods that are not seasoned well, and a cool temperature.

Households with chimneys are encouraged to clean their chimneys regularly. A chimney sweep does not only clean your chimney but it will also inspect your whole chimney if there are parts that need to be repaired. They can also recommend you some tips on how to maintain and use your chimneys and fireplace properly.

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Be Careful with the Candles in your Home

Posted on March 5, 2012 by Joshua

A candle provides tranquility and gives special beauty. Candle products are generally safe, but unless they are used safely and with extra precautions, candles can be a potential fire hazard that may cause big damages in your life and properties. Candle fires are approximately 4 percent f the U.S. fires recorded. At least 85 percent of candle fires could have been avoided if lighted candles were used with extra precautions.

Below are some guidelines in burning candles safely:

  • Make sure that a burning candle is always within sight. Extinguish all candles before leaving it even for just a while or before going to bed.
  • Do not burn a candle near any combustible materials like paper documents, curtains, bed sheets, rags, stuffed toys, and many more. Avoid placing a lighted candle on top of wooden furniture; it may cause a fire if the candle accidentally fell off.
  • Keep candles away from children and pets. Make sure that they are not within reach and they don’t play with matches and lighters.
  • Candlewicks should be trimmed to at least ¼ inch to avoid dripping and uneven burning.
  • Use a candle holder meant to hold lighted candles. Make sure that they are stable, big and heat-resistant. Placing lighted candles on other surfaces like wood and glass may cause heat damage or even fire.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation on how to use the candle. Make sure to follow their time instructions as well.
  • Keep lighted candles away from fans, vents, drafts and air current. They may bring papers near the candles. It will also prevent rapid burning of your candles. Burn a candle in a well-ventilated room.
  • Do not burn the candle all the way down. Replace it even before it reaches the candle holder.
  • Use extra precaution when using candles during brownouts. Do not use the candle when looking something in the closet r under the bed. Also do not use it to light a kerosene heater or lantern.
  • When leaving the room, make sure that the candle is completely extinguished and ensure that the wick is not glowing anymore.
  • Extinguish the candle if the flame gets high, flickers repeatedly or if it smokes.
  • Do not use the candle as a dim light during bed time.
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Reasons Your Fireplace Doesn’t Work

Posted on March 1, 2012 by Joshua

There are more than a hundred reasons why fireplaces do not work. For households with a fireplace, it is essential to completely understand how your fireplace works together with the air flow, pressure differentials and its construction procedure. Some basic fireplace problems have easy solutions while others require an extensive check up to solve the problem. Below are several common reasons why your fireplace does not work.

  • A damper that is not fully opened. Some home owners forget to fully open their dampers. Most dampers does not fully open because of soot build up at the back of the damper or due to water damage. Cleaning may solve this problem.
  • Firewood that is not seasoned. Your main reason in using your fireplace is to give you heat when you need it the most. Firewood will not give your desired heat if it is wet or green but rather gives you more smoke than heat.
  • A dirty chimney. Dirt and creosote accumulation in your chimney may cause your chimney to not work properly. A dirty chimney may limit the flow of air in your chimney. Other things that may accumulate in your chimney are twigs, leaves and small animals. Chimney sweeping can help you on this problem.
  • You may have pests that have built a nest. In addition to a chimney sweeping service, call a pest control company in Nashville that can prevent future problems.
  • Your chimney may not be tall enough. For your chimney to be able to work properly, it should be at least 10 to 13 feet in total height and 2 to 3 feet above the roof.
  • A large flue for the fireplace opening. Some factors that can affect this are chimney height, throat configuration and the temperature of the flue. The area of your fireplace must not exceed the over 10 times of the flue’s area.
  • Air tight home. It is essential to open a window to allow air replacement in your living room because most of the air is already exhausted in the chimney.  This will also risk from carbon dioxide that may build up in your house when fireplace and furnace competes.
  • House is too drafty. If too much air escapes in the house, it can make your fireplace ineffective as well. Make sure that some windows are closed.
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