The art of starting a fire in a fireplace is not as complicated as it may seem. However, in a modern world many people do not know how to start a fire in a fireplace! While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, there are a few simple tricks that make the process more enjoyable. By following these guidelines, you should be able to light your fire in no time.
First, start by using the proper wood. You want to use seasoned wood. It has been stripped of moisture, which will increase the fire’s chances of burning evenly and efficiently. If you’re in a humid climate, you’ll have to use more kindling and tinder. Also, be sure to have a damper open when you’re ready to start the fire. This prevents smoke from backing up into your home.
Next, find some newspaper. A thin piece of paper can be crumpled and placed under the fireplace grate. Tiny twigs and dryer lint can also be a good source of tinder. Newspapers can be balled up to form balls of embers. These can be added to your logs.
Finally, find a way to stack your wood. Doing so will keep you from having to spend too much time tending your fire. For example, you could lay five logs in a row on your fire grate. Another option is to stack the wood in a perpendicular or triangle fashion. This will help air circulate around the logs, and you’ll get a longer-lasting fire.
As far as how to start a fire in a fireplace goes, the best way is probably a top-down approach. There are three main components to this strategy: the large logs, the medium kindling, and the smallest possible number of smaller pieces of kindling. When you’re ready to fire up the furnace, you’ll need to start with the largest logs, which will be the bed of your fire.
The biggest hazard to you and your family is smoke. The smoke produced by a burning fire is more concentrated than in a gas-fired unit, which means you’ll be inhaling a lot of the stuff. In addition, there is a risk of sparks flying everywhere. However, the following tips should help you avoid these unpleasant pitfalls.
The obvious is to put the largest log in front of the fireplace. However, you’ll have to be careful not to accidentally ignite it. This is especially important if you have a short chimney. To be on the safe side, make sure that you are out of the way.
Lastly, the big question is: what wood to choose? Well, you can always buy more if your fireplace isn’t supplied with enough. Ideally, your fire should burn primarily heat, with little or no smoke. Using a high-density wood can help reduce creosote buildup. Moreover, the chemical ink in your newspaper may not be conducive to breathing.
Hopefully, these hints will help you start a fire in a fireplace that is fun and rewarding. And remember, if you don’t follow these steps, your fireplace can end up ruining your good time.