A crackling fire in the fireplace creates atmosphere in the apartment, especially in cold weather. It is also practical during the transition period when the heating is off and the air cools a bit in the evening.
Fireplaces, Swedish stoves or tiled stoves are still very popular. The trend is currently returning to fireplaces in living rooms. They are often installed as room dividers in large living rooms. However, there can be various problems with the stove, so you need to pay attention to a few things.
Maintenance by professionals
When it comes to stoves and fireplaces, functionality, maintenance and correct use are more important than aesthetics. The chimney sweep is responsible for the maintenance and cleaning of the combustion systems. Depending on the canton, it can be freely chosen since liberalization and is no longer determined by the commune of residence. For example, in the canton of Zurich. Inspection and cleaning by a specialist every five years is mandatory by law. If you shoot often, you should do this more often. The landlord is responsible for calling the chimney sweep and for periodic maintenance. “In the worst case, neglected maintenance can lead to a fire in an apartment or house,” says Werner Zbinden, chimney sweep from Illnau-Effretikon ZH and head of the Zurich canton main flue cleaning association.
Avoid making mistakes while cheering
In addition, it is important to cheer properly, explains the expert. “This means that fine dust and therefore environmental impact can be significantly reduced outdoors.” Proper ignition not only protects the environment, but also minimizes smoke and therefore unhealthy pollutants in the living area.
Proper kindling means that a fire burns from top to bottom like a candle. The resulting gases flow through the hot flame and burn completely. According to this principle, smoke and pollutant emissions can be greatly reduced. Instead of using paper to light the fire, Zbinden recommends using fire starters, such as those found at hardware stores.
It is forbidden to burn waste
Dried and untreated logs of deciduous or coniferous woods are ideal for fires in fireplaces and stoves. Glued or painted wood such as furniture, pallets and boxes should not be burned. They contain substances harmful to health and can only be incinerated in suitable premises. Burning household or garden waste in the fireplace or oven is also not allowed.
How much wood should be used for a fire varies by facility. The combustion chamber in the stove or fireplace should not be overcrowded for the fire to burn well. It is best to ask this to the manufacturer.
Avoid sparks and hot ash
Furniture and curtains should always be placed at a sufficient distance from the fire. Despite all the convenience, attention should always be paid to sparking.
After use, the cooled wood ashes should be removed from the stove or fireplace. To be on the safe side, the ashes are temporarily kept in a heatproof container on the balcony or terrace and only disposed of with the garbage after about 48 hours.