Basics of Ash Removal

By George Elias
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28 Feb, 2014
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How is ash removed? Should it even be removed? Why should it be removed? What’s going to happen if I don’t remove the ash from my fireplace or wood stove? These are some of the many typical questions our clients ask us every day. We from Young’s Chimney Service would like to take this opportunity to answer these inquiries and make sure that everything will be crystal clear.

We are used to the traditional “just keep it there, it’s not like it’s going to make a difference if we remove it” way of dealing with ash. But as a homeowner, you must understand the risks of continuing such routine, and believe me, it’s time to change that habit if you plan on keeping your home for the next twenty years or so.

Yes or No?

*If you have any additional questions about how to safely remove ash, please don’t hesitate to call us.*

To answer the question: Yes, ash needs to be removed because harmful substances and toxins can accumulate making it more dangerous after every time the fireplace is being used. It can even conceal pieces of live coal after burning, creating a fire hazard that could endanger your family. The purpose for removing it is to make sure that the chimney has enough draft to carry out the bad smoke and prevent it from entering the house. If ash is not removed and will just stay there for a long time, house or chimney fires are more likely to happen.

Tradition, Tradition

So basically there are two ways of cleaning ash, the traditional way and the modern way. The traditional way is simply preparing a metal trash bin and dust pan and a broom, of course. Make sure it has cooled down. Once it has, slowly sweep out and transfer the ash from the firebox into the dust pan. After that just dispose of it into the empty metal trash bin and seal. Take it to the outside of the house and far away from any property. You can either use it for your plants or in the garden this Spring.

The Modern Way

The modern way is somewhat different but it’s easier and it’s more convenient compared to the traditional way. There is a vacuum that’s specially designed to take out ash alone. This still needs to done once the ash has already cooled. Simply take out the bag after vacuuming the fireplace.

In the end, you don’t have to choose between the traditional or modern way of removing ash. Our CSIA-certified chimney sweeps can take care of this for you once you have your bi-annual chimney inspection and sweeping. We make sure that your furnace is cleaned properly to assure safety inside the home.