444 Swan St, Richmond, Melbourne, VIC 3121, Australia 
Sales: 1300 219 875
Service: 1300 195 482
A well-maintained fireplace keeps your home safe and your heating system efficient. Regular care prevents dangerous chimney fires, improves heating performance, and extends the life of your fireplace.
Taking simple maintenance steps throughout the year will ensure that your fireplace works properly when you need it most. Here’s what you need to know to keep your fireplace in excellent condition.
A neglected fireplace can lead to several serious issues that put your home and family at risk.
When fireplaces aren’t properly maintained, creosote (a highly flammable substance) builds up in chimneys, significantly increasing the risk of chimney fires. Poor ventilation can cause smoke to back up into your home, bringing with it harmful carbon monoxide.
Plus, an inefficient fireplace wastes fuel and fails to provide the heating performance you expect.
On the other hand, regular maintenance provides:
In Australia’s diverse climate conditions, tailoring your maintenance approach to your specific region makes sense.
What can your fireplace maintenance schedule look like?
As the weather warms and you use your fireplace less frequently, spring offers an ideal time for thorough cleaning. This end-of-season maintenance helps prepare your fireplace for its period of inactivity.
Always begin by making sure the fireplace is completely cool—wait at least 12 hours after the last fire. Remove all ash and debris from the firebox using appropriate tools. Take your time with this process, as ash can conceal embers for days. Many Australian gardeners actually use some of this ash in their gardens as a natural pest deterrent.
Inspect the firebox carefully for any cracks or damage. Even minor cracks warrant attention, as they can worsen over time due to the expansion and contraction that occurs with temperature changes.
For cleaning glass doors or screens, a solution of vinegar and water is effective and non-abrasive. For more stubborn soot deposits, a paste made from baking soda and water applied with a soft cloth works well without scratching surfaces. Always dry thoroughly afterwards to prevent water spots.
As temperatures begin to drop and you prepare to use your fireplace regularly again, a pre-season inspection becomes important. This is when professional assessment provides the most value.
A qualified chimney sweep will thoroughly check for:
In Australia, wildlife often seeks shelter in chimneys. From possums to birds, various creatures may find your chimney an attractive nesting site. Professional inspection guarantees that any such inhabitants are safely and humanely removed.
Monthly maintenance becomes essential during the colder months when your fireplace sees regular use. These regular checks help prevent problems before they develop into major issues.
Look for excessive soot accumulation on glass doors or screens. Significant build-up indicates your fire may not be burning as efficiently as it should. Ensure you’re using properly seasoned firewood; green or wet wood produces more smoke and creosote.
Regularly test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. This simple but vital step verifies that these safety devices function correctly when needed most. Replace batteries as necessary.
Examine the hearth area for signs of heat damage or cracking. The hearth undergoes substantial temperature fluctuations, so identifying problems early prevents more significant issues from developing later.
Different types of fireplaces have unique maintenance requirements. Understanding what your specific fireplace needs helps ensure appropriate care.
These classic fireplaces offer unmatched ambience but require comprehensive maintenance. Beyond standard cleaning, pay particular attention to the damper—it should open and close smoothly and create a tight seal when closed.
Check the mortar between firebricks regularly. What may seem like insignificant gaps can actually allow heat to transfer to surrounding structures, creating potential fire hazards.
For wood storage, remember that dry, seasoned wood is crucial. Wood should typically be seasoned for at least six months before burning. Store it in a dry, covered area with good air circulation, raised off the ground. This reduces moisture content, leading to cleaner burns with less smoke and creosote formation.
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Gas fireplaces have become increasingly common in modern Australian homes, offering convenience without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. While they require less maintenance than wood-burning options, regular care remains important.
Safety Requirements
Homeowner Care
Contact a qualified gas plumber immediately for any concerns or operational issues.
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While electric fireplaces require minimal maintenance, they still need some care. Dust accumulation on heating elements can affect performance and potentially create hazards.
Always unplug the unit before cleaning. Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove dust from vents and elements. Examine the plug and cord for signs of wear or damage, as these can present significant safety risks.
For units with filters, follow manufacturer recommendations for cleaning or replacement schedules. Clean display screens or flame effect components with a slightly damp cloth, avoiding abrasive cleaners on these surfaces.
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Many aspects of fireplace maintenance can be handled by homeowners, while other tasks require professional expertise. Understanding this distinction helps guarantee proper care without unnecessary expense.
Regular cleaning of the firebox, glass, and hearth area is manageable for most homeowners. Checking for obvious cracks or damage and testing smoke detectors are also straightforward DIY tasks.
For wood-burning fireplaces, removing ash regularly is important. However, maintaining a thin layer (about 2-3 cm) actually helps fires burn more efficiently by insulating the firebox and reflecting heat back into the fire.
Inspecting the chimney exterior from ground level is reasonable for most people. Look for plant growth, visible damage, or deteriorating masonry, which may indicate problems requiring professional attention.
Chimney sweeping requires professional equipment and expertise. Professional sweeps have the tools and experience to thoroughly clean the flue and chimney safely and effectively. Australian standards recommend professional cleaning at least once a year for regularly used fireplaces.
| Task | Frequency | DIY or Professional |
| Ash removal | After each use (leaving a thin layer) | DIY |
| Glass/screen cleaning | As needed, at least monthly during heavy use | DIY |
| Firebox inspection | Monthly during use, thorough inspection annually | DIY monthly, Professional annually |
| Chimney sweeping | Annually before heating season | Professional |
| Structural repairs | As needed | Professional |
| Damper maintenance | Annually | Professional |
Chimney fires account for numerous house fires in Australia each winter. Many of these could be prevented with regular professional maintenance. The cost of annual inspection and cleaning is minimal compared to potential fire damage or the more serious consequences of injury or loss of life.
Are you looking for fireplaces in Mornington Peninsula or Hampton? Offering products like open wood fireplaces, gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces, slow combustion wood fireplaces, outdoor fireplaces and an array of fireplace accessories, we provide a range of choices to suit all tastes and budgets.
Even with regular maintenance, fireplace issues can develop. Here are some common problems and practical solutions to address them.
A few problems are more frustrating than smoke entering your living space and not venting properly. This issue can be caused by:
For immediate relief, open a window slightly near the fireplace. This provides additional air for combustion and helps establish a proper draft. To prevent this issue in the future, warm the flue before lighting your fire by holding a lit rolled newspaper in the flue opening for a minute.
For persistent problems, consider installing a chimney cap designed to prevent downdrafts or consult with a professional about optimal chimney height.
If you notice a thick, tar-like substance in your chimney or detect an unusual smell when burning, you’re likely experiencing creosote build-up. This situation requires attention, as creosote is highly flammable.
Using properly seasoned hardwoods rather than softer woods helps reduce creosote formation. Maintaining appropriate burning temperatures also helps; smouldering fires produce more creosote than hotter, more efficient fires.
For existing build-up, professional cleaning is essential. Between professional services, commercial creosote reducers can be used according to manufacturer instructions, though these supplements don’t replace proper sweeping.
The firebrick lining your firebox endures extreme temperatures and eventually may crack or deteriorate. Minor cracks (less than 3mm) can often be repaired with refractory cement, available at most hardware stores.
More significant damage typically requires replacement. This is generally best handled by professionals, as proper installation is crucial for safety. Damaged mortar between bricks, known as “tuckpointing,” also requires professional repair to maintain structural integrity.
When it comes to comprehensive fireplace care, expert assistance makes a significant difference. The team at Jetmaster Vic offers the expertise Australian homeowners need, with decades of experience providing professional inspections, maintenance services, upgrades, and replacements.
Our certified technicians understand the unique challenges of Australian conditions and provide tailored advice for your specific fireplace system. Whether you’re dealing with an existing issue or simply want to confirm your fireplace operates at peak efficiency and safety, their team is available to help.
Before winter arrives, consider scheduling a professional inspection. Jetmaster Vic’s comprehensive service confirms your fireplace is clean, safe, and ready to perform when you need it most. Their experts can also advise on potential upgrades that might improve efficiency, reduce emissions, or enhance the appearance of your existing setup.
Visit our website or contact our team to book your service or discuss how they can help you get the most from your fireplace this winter season.
Sales:1300 219 875
Services:1300 195 482
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