As the temperatures drop and you start relying more on your wood or pellet stove to keep your home warm, ensuring you have a reliable fuel supply is crucial. However, storing wood and pellets properly is just as important as having them in the first place. Proper storage not only preserves the quality of your fuel but also ensures it burns efficiently and safely. Here’s what you need to know about storing wood and pellets to get the most out of your woodstove or fireplace this heating season. The Importance …

Original article by Ortal Fireplaces Winter is upon us, and that means more time indoors bundled up in your favorite blanket with a hot drink. What better time than a cold fall or winter day to gather around a warm fire and enjoy some family time? Here are a handful of family-friendly activities that just might inspire your household to put down the smartphones (for a while, at least) and cozy up next to the fire for some fun. Make It a Game Night Pictionary, Apples to Apples, and (for …

What is a BTU? A BTU or British Thermal Unit is the amount of heat required to raise 1 pound of water 1 degree Fahrenheit. All gas appliances are rated in BTU’s/hr Input which is an approximation of the amount of gas consumed on full fire in one hour as expressed in terms of the heat potential of the gas. Depending on the design and efficiency of the appliance, a certain proportion of the heat generated from burning ends up as useful heat in the room (Heat Output) while some …

There isn’t a simple rule of thumb on how often to clean your chimney, such as cleaning after 50 uses or one year. The problem is, creosote can form when wood is burned incompletely. In addition, organic, flammable debris can enter the chimney, brought by the elements or by animals. Wind can deposit leaves and twigs in chimneys lacking flue caps. Birds and vermin can nest in chimneys or otherwise bring unwanted materials. A smoky fire without enough oxygen emits lots of unburned tar vapors that can condense inside the …

Valor has sent out a great bulletin when it comes to preparing your fireplace for winter! With any fuel burning fireplace or space heating device, safe operation depends on your product knowledge and awareness of safe operating practices. Special precautions are necessary when small children are present. Please take the time to review all safety procedures with your family and guests. Maintain Your Fireplace. Your owner’s manual includes instructions on routine maintenance such as glass cleaning and replacement of batteries in your remote receiver and handset. Scheduling a regular maintenance …

Thanks to the professionals at Weber for these great tips for getting your grills ready for some action this summer! A little time is all it takes to get your grill running and looking like new after the long winter. Here are our tips for charcoal, gas and Summit Charcoal grills. Happy Cleaning! CHARCOAL SEASON TO SEASON TIPS Use our exterior grill cleaner to clean the outside lid and side tables of your grill. …

Do you know one of the easiest way to improve your home value and marketability? Turns out Outdoor Projects may be the answer this Summer. While they are functional and let you enjoy the great outdoors, they also also add great curb appeal to your home. As more people are looking to enjoy fresh air and spend quality time outside the house, exterior renovations can add great value to your property. Outdoor Kitchen: Cooking outside is one of the great pleasures of Summer. Your grill, smoker, griddle or other cooking …