While fireplaces can be a source of warmth, they can cause heat loss if not properly maintained. Here are a few tips to make sure you're maximizing the efficiency of your fireplace and chimney.
- Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. If the damper is open during the winter, it allows warm air to go right up the chimney.
- When you use the fireplace, reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if applicable) or open the nearest window approximately 1 inch and close doors leading into the room. Lower the thermostat setting to between 50° and 55°F.
- If you never use your fireplace, plug and seal the chimney flue.
- If you do use the fireplace, install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warm air back into the room.
- Check the seal on the fireplace flue damper and make it as snug as possible.
- Purchase grates made of C-shaped metal tubes to draw cool air into the fireplace and circulate warm air back into the room.
- Add caulking around the fireplace hearth.
Source: Energy.gov
