3 Fireplace Mistakes to Avoid This Winter

When the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a glowing fire. But if you want to enjoy the full benefits of your wood burner or open fireplace, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes that can reduce heat output, damage your chimney, or even put your safety at risk.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the top 3 fireplace mistakes to avoid this winter, along with practical tips to keep your fire burning efficiently and safely.

Mistake 1: Using Firewood That Isn’t Kiln-Dried

One of the biggest errors homeowners make is burning logs that aren’t properly dried. Wet or green wood produces:

• Excess smoke and poor heat output.
• Creosote build-up in your chimney, increasing fire risk.
• More ash and soot, making cleaning a hassle.

For best results, always choose kiln-dried logs with a moisture content under 20%. At Peak Logs, all of our firewood is Woodsure Ready to Burn certified, giving you maximum efficiency with every bag.

Mistake 2: Blocking Airflow in Your Fireplace

Airflow is crucial for a clean, steady burn. Common issues include:

• Piling too many logs onto the fire at once.
• Closing vents too early, which smothers the flames.
• Failing to use kindling to get the fire started properly.

To fix this, use smaller splits of wood to start, keep your air vents open until the logs are burning strongly, and avoid overcrowding your fireplace. Proper airflow ensures your logs burn hotter, cleaner, and with less smoke.

Mistake 3: Neglecting Regular Chimney Maintenance

Even when burning kiln-dried logs, soot and residue can accumulate over time. Many homeowners forget to book a chimney sweep before winter, which can lead to:

• Reduced efficiency and poor heat output.
• Unpleasant odours in your home.
• Increased risk of chimney fires.

We recommend having your chimney swept at least once a year, ideally before the start of the heating season. Pair this with responsible log storage — see our guide on how to store logs correctly — to get the best performance from your firewood.

Summary: Stay Warm and Burn Smarter

By avoiding these three common mistakes — burning damp logs, blocking airflow, and neglecting chimney care — you can enjoy a safer, hotter, and more efficient fire all winter long.

Looking for quality fuel? Explore our full range of kiln-dried firewood today with free local delivery on orders over £65.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use kiln-dried logs instead of seasoned logs?

Kiln-dried logs have a lower moisture content (under 20%), meaning they ignite faster, burn hotter, and produce less smoke than seasoned logs.

How often should I sweep my chimney?

For households using their fireplace regularly in winter, we recommend at least one sweep per year — ideally before the heating season begins.

Can I mix softwood and hardwood logs?

Yes. Many homeowners use softwood logs to get the fire started quickly, then switch to hardwood logs for a longer, steadier burn.