How often should a wood stove chimney be cleaned?

At least once a year with regular use, more with heavy burning. Creosote buildup from wood smoke causes chimney fires, so regular inspection and sweeping are essential.

Wood Stove & Fireplace Safety

Q: What wood should I burn in a wood stove?

Only dry, seasoned hardwood. Wet or green wood smoulders and produces far more creosote. Never burn garbage, treated, or painted wood.

A wood stove or fireplace is cozy and a backup heat source during outages, but wood burning carries real fire and carbon monoxide risks. Safe installation and maintenance make all the difference.

Clearances and installation

Stoves and pipes must keep the required clearance from combustible walls, floors, and furniture, on an approved hearth pad. A wood-burning appliance should be installed to code and ideally WETT-inspected. Insurance often requires a WETT certificate for wood heat.

Clean the chimney

Burning wood deposits creosote — a flammable residue — in the chimney, and creosote buildup causes chimney fires. Have the chimney inspected and swept regularly, at least annually with frequent use. A chimney cap keeps out rain and animals.

Burn smart

Burn only dry, seasoned wood — wet wood smoulders and produces far more creosote. Never burn garbage or treated wood. Keep a working CO alarm and smoke alarm nearby, use a screen against sparks, and let ashes cool fully in a metal container before disposal.

Wood Stove & Fireplace Safety

Clearances and installation

Clean the chimney

Burn smart

Frequently asked questions