There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a crackling fire on a cold winter’s night. But while your fireplace or wood burner can be the heart of your home, small mistakes can reduce efficiency, increase smoke, or even pose safety risks.
Whether you’re using kiln-dried logs or smokeless fuel, here are three common fireplace mistakes to avoid this winter — and how to make sure your fire burns safely and efficiently all season long.
1. Using Damp or Unseasoned Logs
One of the biggest fireplace mistakes homeowners make is burning damp or unseasoned wood. Logs with a high moisture content produce more smoke, less heat, and can cause a dangerous build-up of soot and creosote inside your chimney.
Why It Matters:
- Damp logs burn inefficiently, wasting energy and fuel.
- They increase condensation inside your flue, leading to blockages.
- You’ll end up using more wood to achieve the same heat output.
To avoid this, always use Ready to Burn-certified logs with a moisture content under 20%. Our softwood logs and hardwood logs are kiln-dried to perfection — producing a clean, high-heat burn with minimal smoke.
Pro Tip:
Keep your logs dry by following our Top Tips to Store Logs in Wet Weather. Proper storage is key to maintaining quality and performance.
2. Neglecting Chimney and Flue Maintenance
Out of sight, out of mind? Not when it comes to your chimney. Failing to have your chimney swept or inspected regularly is a mistake that can quickly turn hazardous.
What Can Go Wrong:
- Soot and creosote build-up can cause chimney fires.
- Poor airflow reduces combustion efficiency, leading to smoky fires.
- Blocked chimneys can leak carbon monoxide into your home.
We recommend booking a professional chimney sweep at least once a year — ideally before winter begins. It’s a small step that makes a big difference to both performance and safety.
Did You Know?
Even if you burn only kiln-dried logs, soot can still accumulate over time. Regular maintenance keeps your fireplace running efficiently and ensures proper ventilation for a clean, consistent flame.
3. Closing the Air Vents Too Early
It might be tempting to close the air vents on your stove or fireplace as soon as your fire starts burning — but doing so too soon is another common mistake. Airflow is essential for complete combustion and consistent heat output.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Reduced airflow leads to incomplete burning, wasting fuel.
- You’ll produce more smoke and tar residue inside your stove or flue.
- It can even cause your fire to go out prematurely.
Allow your fire to establish for at least 15–20 minutes with vents open before adjusting them. This ensures a hotter, cleaner burn and reduces emissions. Once your logs are glowing steadily, you can then fine-tune the air control to maintain an even flame.
🔥 Keep Your Fireplace Safe and Efficient
Burn cleaner, hotter, and longer this winter with Peak Logs’ Woodsure Ready to Burn firewood. From softwood logs that ignite quickly to hardwood logs that last longer, we’ve got everything you need to fuel your winter warmth — with free local delivery within 18 miles of Buxton.
FAQs: Fireplace Safety and Efficiency
What type of wood burns best in a fireplace?
Kiln-dried hardwood logs are ideal because they produce a longer-lasting, high-heat burn. Softwood logs are great for kindling or quick, hot fires.
How often should I clean my chimney?
At least once a year — preferably before the winter season. Regular sweeping removes soot and debris that can restrict airflow or cause fires.
Why does my fireplace smoke when I light it?
Excess smoke often indicates poor ventilation or damp wood. Make sure your logs are completely dry and your chimney is clear of obstructions.
Is it safe to leave a fire burning overnight?
No. Always let your fire die down naturally and ensure embers are extinguished before going to bed. Never leave a fire unattended.
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained fireplace brings comfort, warmth, and charm to any home — but it’s only as good as the care you give it. By avoiding these three common fireplace mistakes, you’ll enjoy safer, more efficient fires all winter long.
For premium-quality, responsibly sourced firewood delivered straight to your door, trust Peak Logs — your local firewood supplier for Buxton, Derbyshire, and beyond.