The days are getting colder, shorter and darker. It comes as no surprise that you are thinking of cleaning your fireplace and getting it ready to warm up your evenings. Whether you have a wood-burning fireplace or a gas fireplace, it is important to give it a good clean. Cleaning your fireplace is important to ensure it runs safely and efficiently.
How to clean a wood-burning fireplace
Warning: Do not use your hoover to remove ashes.
If you have a fireplace that burns wood, you should not use a vacuum cleaner to remove the ashes on your fireplace. Not only can it damage your vacuum cleaner but can also make ash particles can escape into the air. Breathing in ash dust can be harmful to humans and pets.
Materials:
- Broom
- Dustpan
- Fireplace shovel
- Dish soap
- Heavy-duty cleaner
- Warm water
- Stiff-bristled brush
- Pumice stone
How to:
Step 1. Extinguish any fire. Spread out the embers. Leave it for 24 hours.
Step 2. Use a fireplace shovel to remove burnt wood.
Step 3. Sweep up ash with a broom and dustpan.
Step 4. Create a deep cleaning solution. Combine dish soap, heavy-duty cleaner and warm water.
Step 5. Scrub inside the fireplace with a stiff-bristled brush and the cleaning solution. Work from top to bottom. Repeat as many times as necessary.
Step 6. Use a pumice stone dipped in dish soap to clean the bricks. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
Related: How to save energy during the winter.
How to clean an electric fireplace
Do you want a mess-free fireplace? Why not install an electric fireplace? Our London electricians can install electric fireplaces, also known as fake fireplaces. These mimic a fireplace burning coal without the hassle and mess of a traditional fireplace. If you already have an electric fireplace and want to clean it, here’s how you should do it.
Materials:
- Clean cloth
- Metal polish
- Paper towels
- Glass cleaner
How to:
Step 1. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions on how to open it and suggestions on how to clean it.
Step 2. Turn off your electric fireplace.
Step 3. Open the glass doors.
Step 4. Dust the inside and outside with a clean cloth.
Step 5. Use metal polish to make your metal andirons shine.
Step 6. Clean the glass doors with a glass cleaner and paper towels.
Are your radiators not working properly? Our team of plumbers in London can repair radiators, from bleeding radiators and overhauling valves to balancing radiators and more. Keep warm this autumn and winter by having our team inspect your property and complete any required repairs and replacements.
How to clean a gas fireplace
Materials:
- Broom
- Dustpan
- All-purpose cleaner
- Paper towels
- Glass cleaner
How to:
Step 1. Make sure the gas is off.
Step 2. Sweep the fireplace to remove dust and dirt.
Step 3. Clean the synthetic logs with an all-purpose cleaner. Wipe it down with a paper towel.
Step 4. Clean the fireplace’s glass screens and doors with a glass cleaner and paper towel.
Related: How to prepare your home for Autumn.
Once you’ve cleaned your fireplace, put on your favourite film, make a cuppa and enjoy a toasty night-in. If you need any help with any home renovations and repairs, free feel to give our team a call. We cover the whole of London and offer a wide variety of tasks. Request a free quote by filling our online booking form or give our team a call on 0800-0-12-12-12.
Disclaimer
At the Handy Squad we strongly advise that you always take safety precautions into consideration when undertaking a DIY project. We also strongly suggest that you closely read and follow the instructions, that are provided by the manufacturer, of any building materials, products or tools you use for your projects.
Our aim is to provide you with clear and correct instructions, so that you can easily complete any DIY project you desire. However, please note that the information we provide should only be used as a guideline and that some information within the text may not be entirely accurate.
When using our articles for information and advice, please note that it is your own responsibility to determine whether you are capable of undertaking and executing the task you wish to complete.
Before starting a DIY task, it is essential that you inform yourself of any existing building, gas, water and electrical works regulations. If you were to have any further concerns, we recommend that you complete additional research and/or contact the necessary professional body.
We also strongly recommend that a qualified tradesperson completes the relevant safety tests and checks on any DIY work you have completed.
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