New Fireplace Installation You Can Count On in South Lebanon: North Forge Home Heating Inc.

Fireplace Accessories Near Me: What Products Do I Need for Safe Ash Removal?

If you burn wood in your stove or fireplace, regular ash removal needs to be a part of your maintenance routine. When ash builds up, it can invite moisture, take up valuable space in the firebox, and trigger deterioration. That said, because hidden embers can stay live for days, using the right tools and accessories is necessary for making the job easier – and, more importantly, safer.

Here are the key products to own for fireplace ash removal:

• Ash Shovel: An ash shovel allows you to scoop out ashes safely without the risk of burning yourself or spreading a fire. Choose a sturdy shovel made from heat-resistant metal with a handle long enough to maintain a safe distance from the firebox.
• Ash Bucket or Container: An ash bucket should be made of heavy-duty metal and come with a lid to contain dust and potentially live embers. Tightly seal the lid when you’re done, and always use a metal container – never plastic or cardboard.
• Fireplace Brush or Broom: While leaving behind a thin layer of ash during the burn season isn’t a problem, having a stiff-bristled fireplace brush and dustpan is handy for end-of-season ash removal. These brushes withstand the abrasive nature of ash and allow for thorough cleaning.
• Heat-resistant Gloves: Heat-resistant gloves protect your hands while handling hot ashes or tools, reducing the risk of burns or injuries. Look for gloves made from thick leather or special heat-resistant materials.
• Ash Vacuum: While not a must, an ash vacuum can be handy to have for fine ash and dust that can become airborne. These are built to handle very fine particles and are heat-resistant.
• Fireplace Tongs or Pokers: Though mainly for tending the fire, tongs and pokers help maneuver logs and coals, making ash removal easier and safer. You can move all that stuff where you need it, without the risk of getting burned or hurt.

Other tips to keep in mind as you scoop your fireplace ash…

• Wait at least 24 – 48 hours after the fire has gone out before removing ashes to ensure they are fully cooled.
• Always store ashes in a metal container with a tight lid.
• Keep the ash container stored outdoors, storing it there for a few days before officially throwing the ash out.
• Avoid stirring ash during removal, as this can release harmful dust and particulate matter into the air.

How Do Firebacks Work?

A fireback is a heavy, usually cast-iron or steel, plate installed at the back wall of a fireplace. Firebacks are promoted for aiding in both the efficiency and longevity of your fireplace…but how do they work exactly?

• Firebacks protect the fireplace structure. The primary function of a fireback is to protect the masonry at the rear of the fireplace. The intense heat and direct flames from your fires can wear things down over time, but firebacks absorb and withstand this heat, preventing damage and prolonging the life of your fireplace.
• Firebacks radiate heat into the room. Cast iron and steel are excellent conductors of heat. When a fire burns, the fireback absorbs heat from the flames, then radiates it back into the room…even after the fire has died down.
• Firebacks can keep you safer. By protecting the back wall from heat damage, firebacks reduce the risk of structural fire hazards. The fireback’s solid, heat-resistant surface provides a safer environment inside the fireplace.
• Firebacks can be decorative. Firebacks come in a wide variety of designs, from plain and functional to highly decorative with intricate patterns. They can enhance the visual appeal of your fireplace, serving as both a practical addition and a design statement.

Interested in investing in a new fireback? Reach out! They’re relatively simple to install and don’t require special maintenance beyond occasional cleaning to remove soot and ash buildup.

South Lebanon Fireplace, Stoves & Inserts: Let Us Serve You

South Lebanon isn’t sprawling or flashy – it’s a classic small-town community with streets where you know the people passing by and trails where nods and smiles are routine. And since bigger cities like Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Reading are all an easy drive away, residents can enjoy a peaceful, close-knit atmosphere without giving up quick access to modern amenities and entertainment.

What can you do if you want to keep your day somewhat local?

• Go shopping at Lebanon Valley Mall. South Lebanon residents have quick access to several shopping centers and local businesses, including Lebanon Valley Mall, which offers retail stores, dining, and entertainment options.
• Visit South Hills Park. This park is a favorite for many with playgrounds for younger kids to enjoy, along with sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas.
• Make the jaunt over to Swatara Creek. Located nearby, Swatara Creek has opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and nature walks – a great place to spend your time.
• Check out a local event. In town and in the towns surrounding, it’s easy to find a local event, farmers market, or show to check out.

Eager to spend the day at home? We get it – and we’re here to make sure those in the area, as well as surrounding neighborhoods like Cornwall, Mount Gretna, Quentin, and more, get the most from their living spaces with quality fireplaces, stoves, and inserts near you. Reach out soon – we’d love to speak with you.

We’re Here To Offer the Best Fireplaces, Stoves & Hearth Accessories

From cozy fireplaces to efficient stoves and all the accessories you need for them, we’re dedicated to bringing you top-quality products that serve you well for years to come. Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through every step, helping you choose the perfect options tailored to your needs.

Contact us today and discover how easy it can be to upgrade your living space with the best fireplaces, stoves, and accessories available.