The Hidden Dangers of Soot Buildup During Burning Season

November 10, 2025 | Chimney Basics

When the temperatures drop and fireplaces and wood stoves become part of your daily routine, it’s easy to focus on comfort and warmth. But what often goes unnoticed is the accumulation of soot inside your chimney system—a seemingly minor issue that can quickly become a serious safety hazard.Whether you burn wood occasionally or rely on your fireplace or stove throughout the season, keeping your chimney clean and inspected is essential. Here’s what you need to know about soot buildup, the risks of neglecting chimney maintenance, and why working with a certified chimney professional matters.What Is Soot, and Why Does It Build Up?Soot is a fine, powdery black substance made primarily of carbon. It’s created as a byproduct of incomplete combustion—when wood or other fuels don’t burn completely. It rises with smoke and attaches to the interior walls of the flue, collecting over time with each fire you burn.Factors that contribute … Continued

The Best and Worst Types of Wood to Burn in Your Fireplace — And Why It Matters

August 18, 2025 | *Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

There’s nothing like the warmth and crackle of a real wood-burning fire. Whether it’s for ambiance or home heating, your fireplace can be a cozy focal point — but only if you’re burning the right kind of wood.Using the wrong firewood can result in excess smoke, poor heat output, creosote buildup, and even dangerous chimney fires. Below, we break down the best and worst types of wood to burn — and why choosing the right firewood is so important for your safety and comfort.Best Types of Firewood for a FireplaceThe best wood for burning is seasoned, dry hardwood. These woods burn longer, cleaner, and produce more heat with less smoke.1. OakOak is one of the most popular firewood choices. It burns slowly and produces steady, high heat. However, it must be properly seasoned — usually 12 to 24 months — for best performance.2. MapleMaple burns cleanly and gives off good … Continued

How to Remove Fireplace Ash Without Making a Mess

January 19, 2025 | Chimney Cleaning

Nothing beats the warm and inviting glow of your fireplace on a chilly winter evening—until it’s time to clean up. The leftover ash can seem like a messy nightmare, but don’t worry! Chimney Champions is here to show you how to remove fireplace ash without turning your living room into a dusty disaster. With these tips from our chimney sweeps, you’ll keep your fireplace tidy and enjoy it season after season.

Why You Should Never Cook Over Your Fireplace

3 Reasons You Should Never Cook Over Your Fireplace

March 14, 2024 | Chimney Basics

Cooking over an open flame can be a fun and rustic way to prepare meals. However, there are several reasons why it’s best to avoid using your fireplace as a cooking source. Not only is this a safety hazard, but it can also result in more extensive sweeps. Below, Chimney Champions explains three additional reasons why you should never cook over your fireplace.

5 Wood-Storing Tips for Dry Firewood

November 13, 2023 | Fireplace Basics

Nothing beats the warmth and cozy ambiance from a crackling fire in your fireplace on a chilly evening. As a homeowner with a well-inspected fireplace, you’ll need a steady supply of dry firewood to keep those flames going. However, storing firewood can be challenging, especially if you want to keep it dry and pest-free. Chimney Champions shares five wood-storing tips to help you keep your firewood in excellent condition and ready for use every time.

Is a Gas Fireplace Safer Than a Traditional Fireplace?

October 11, 2023 | Chimney Basics

Choosing the right fireplace for your home can be a difficult task, especially when there are so many options available. If you’re deciding between a gas and a traditional fireplace, you might be wondering which one is the safer choice. To help you make the perfect decision for your family, Chimney Champions is here to explain some key differences and to remind you to schedule your yearly inspection.

Gas Fireplaces Vs. Traditional Fireplaces

March 10, 2023 | Common Questions

Many homeowners choose to use a fireplace to add style and comfort to their homes. But, is a gas fireplace safer than a traditional fireplace? It’s a common dilemma for homeowners when they’re comparing gas fireplaces with traditional fireplaces. Chimney Champions inspects them all, so let’s take a look at the differences between them and compare safety features, convenience, and more.

How to Guarantee Fireplace Efficiency

December 12, 2022 | Chimney Basics

Do you have a traditional fireplace in your home? If so, you may be wondering how to guarantee fireplace efficiency. A traditional fireplace can be a major source of heat loss in your home, costing you money on your heating bill. But, with the right chimney repairs, it can be a great source of heat, as well. So, Chimney Champions discusses some tips on how to make your traditional fireplace more efficient!

The Dos and Don’ts of Owning a Gas Fireplace

November 10, 2022 | Fireplace Basics

If you’re thinking of adding a gas fireplace to your home, you’ll want to read this first. Below, Chimney Champions will discuss the dos and don’ts of owning a gas fireplace. We’ll cover everything from installation to maintenance, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not this is the right choice for your home.

3 Fireplace Mistakes You’re Probably Making

September 9, 2022 | Chimney Basics

Many people enjoy the cozy ambiance and warmth a fireplace provides during the winter or even on those cooler summer evenings. However, if you’re not using or caring for your fireplace correctly, you may be costing yourself money and causing damage to your home. So, Chimney Champions is here to help you avoid these three common fireplace mistakes so you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.