"Arch" wrote in message
...
I need to start burning wood in a long unused (except the occasional gas
log for 'charm') fireplace, Probably will need a heater/blower, but
maybe open. What should be done for fire safety before firing up?

I'm confused about chimney linings, or inline creosote removers etc. and
I don't see anyone around here wearing a top hat and carrying a broom.


Clearing and sweeping the chimney is the first thing. If it's been unused
for a while, you might have it blocked off by swallows' nests. Do the
mirror inspection with the sun high in the sky to assess any problems. If
you see other than clean flue, get the sweeps.

Since I burn wood as primary, the wife and I sweep late fall and late
spring. It does involve me at the top and her below, but by securing ropes
top and bottom on the brush, she can grab and stomp the rope, pulling down
in spurts, and I draw back up. Few times up and back is normally enough.

Chemical creosote removers are bit of a mystery to me. I throw some in
once in a while, but I have no idea if they do any good.

If you don't have a blower in the box liner, your options are fairly
limited. The hollow andirons with the blower seem to work. Get a good
screen.