Year-Round Fireplace Care Checklist

Because a Well-Loved Fireplace Deserves Attention in Every Season

Let’s face it — your fireplace does a lot for you. It warms your home, brings a glow to the darkest evenings, and sometimes even becomes the star of the room. But like any part of your house that pulls its weight, it deserves care — not just in winter when it’s working full throttle, but all year long.

Think of this as a little love letter to your fireplace. Or at least, a practical, heartfelt list of how to look after it from January through December. Whether you’re tending to a classic wood-burner, a bioethanol beauty, or a sleek gas insert, this guide helps you keep things running smoothly — and safely — in every season.

🧼 Spring: The Clean Slate Season

Once the cold snap fades and daffodils start peeking through, it’s time to give your fireplace a proper reset. You’ve likely been using it a lot, so spring is your moment to freshen things up.

• Clear out ash and debris — Use a metal bucket and gloves. Let everything cool completely before handling.
• Vacuum or sweep the firebox — Remove soot, loose bits and any lingering cobwebs.
• Clean the glass (if applicable) — Use a fireplace glass cleaner or white vinegar. Avoid scratching!
• Inspect for wear and tear — Check for cracks in brickwork, deteriorating fire cement, or warped grates.

It’s also the perfect time to book a chimney sweep if you burned solid fuel all winter. Don’t put it off until autumn rush hits!

🌞 Summer: The Off-Season Strategy

Yes, you’re probably not using your fireplace much in July. But summer isn’t a time to ignore it — it’s a time to prepare quietly in the background.

• Install a chimney cap if you don’t have one — This prevents birds, debris, and even rain from creeping in.
• Ventilate the room — If your fireplace makes the air musty, a dehumidifier or cracked window can help.
• Do a deep clean of the surround — Especially important for stone, tile, or wood mantels that gather dust.
• Check your fire tools — Make sure the poker hasn’t mysteriously disappeared behind the sofa (it happens).

Summer is also a good time to consider upgrades — maybe a new fireguard, updated log basket, or even a fresh coat of paint on the mantelpiece?

🍂 Autumn: Prime Prep Season

This is when things start to get real. Leaves fall. The air cools. And you remember how good it felt to warm your toes by the fire. But before you strike that first match, you’ll want to double check that all systems are go.

• Get your chimney swept (if not done in spring)
• Test your carbon monoxide detector — Replace batteries if needed. No compromise here.
• Inspect vents and flues — Make sure nothing is blocked, leaking or corroded.
• Restock your fuel — Whether it’s kiln-dried logs, gas canisters or bioethanol, buy early before prices peak.
• Light a small “test fire” — Watch how it burns. If it smokes, sputters, or smells odd — something’s off.

Autumn is also when many people realise their fireplace needs more than TLC — maybe even a new lining or repair. Catch it now, before winter gets its icy claws in.

❄️ Winter: Peak Cosy Time

Ah, the fireplace’s moment to shine. But even while you’re using it regularly, don’t forget to check in with your setup now and then.

• Empty ash regularly — But leave a thin bed to help new logs burn more easily (if wood-burning).
• Open the damper fully when in use — Then close it once the fire’s out and cold, to avoid draughts.
• Keep the area around the hearth clear — Especially if little ones or pets are about.
• Don’t overload the fire — It’s tempting, but burning too much wood at once can damage the firebox or cause smoke issues.

And remember: regular use means regular observation. If something feels off — a new smell, weird sound, or stubborn pilot light — deal with it sooner, not later.