TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- In the mood for chestnuts roasted on an open fire? For many families, gathering around a crackling fireplace is a holiday tradition -- but you need to take the proper precautions.
In this Angie's List report, the mistakes that could burn you.
Skipping annual chimney inspections and cleanings can lead to big problems. So before you cozy up in front of the fireplace, make sure it's in good working order.
"If you live in a brand new house and don't really use your fireplace you may not need a yearly inspection. But if you live in an older home they are very important because you might find that your foundation has settled and can pull the liner away and it can start to separate. So, you want to be sure it's in good condition each year," recommends Angie Hicks of Angie's List.
Angie's List says if a certified chimney specialist uncovers a problem don't simply take their word -- demand proof.
"When talking with your inspector be sure they are using the pictures in a way that you can actually see things that identify your house in particular. Unfortunately, the most common scam that we hear about is when a chimney inspector uses pictures from another house. So, you want to be sure that the pictures you're looking at are your house and the damage to your chimney," said Hicks.
Experts say another common mistake homeowners make is failing to use firewood that's seasoned and dry.
"It also, the wood, needs to be split because the bark on a tree actually holds moisture in so once the wood is split and stacked and then it needs to dry for six months to a year and be covered," said certified chimney technician Dennis Lamb.
While gas fireplaces may require less maintenance than a wood burning fireplace, don't skimp on it.
"If you're burning real wood in your fireplace and you have a problem, the house may smoke up and you know you have a problem. If you're burning gas inside your fireplace and you have a problem, you might not know it because it's carbon monoxide and it's deadly," said Lamb.
Chimney cleaning typically costs about $150 to $200. Angie's List says if someone knocks on your door and offers a super low rate to clean or inspect your chimney, you should probably pass on the deal.
Remember you can catch the latest Angie's List report every Tuesday morning on WTXL Sunrise.
