08 2024
Winter is coming, and our wood-burning appliances need to function efficiently and safely, as they will be in use constantly until the cold gradually subsides. These appliances put homeowners at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning and accidental fires inside the house. So, gathering a reliable home inspection checklist for wood-burning appliances is crucial before existing defects and colds show up. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t know what should go on this checklist. So, to help you understand what this checklist should include and answer any questions you may have, we have prepared this guide for you. If you want to learn more, call Atlanta Property Inspections today.
A general inspection is the first thing a homeowner should include in their checklist. Locate your wood-burning appliances and check for clear and visible damages. Ask yourself these key questions: Are there any cracks in the body of the appliance? Is there any broken glass on the doors?
Lastly, check to ensure the appliances are certified and installed properly.
Old fireplaces were composed of bricks and grout. However, modern fireplaces have a metal flue liner, which increases the appliance's efficiency and provides a safer environment. The flue liner has a smooth texture inside, which makes it easier to clean and collect creosote. If you have a modern fireplace, check for excessive creosote buildup and other damaged firebricks. Ensure the system is working properly and isn’t damaged. Lastly, ensure the chimney cap is properly installed to prevent animals from entering.
The ventilation system is one of the most important parts of a wood-burning appliance. To burn wood, constant fresh air is a requirement. This supports the combustion process and verifies there is no sealed space. Without proper ventilation, the fire will not burn well and release constant and excessive smoke, like carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is toxic to our bodies. If you want to learn whether the ventilation in your wood-burning appliances works efficiently, call Atlanta Property Inspections today.
It is a must for a homeowner to have a fire extinguisher in their house. If you have wood-burning appliances, place the extinguisher near it somewhere. In addition, check to see if there are carbon monoxide detectors around these appliances to ensure no harmful gasses will affect you. If you don’t have these items, make sure to install these equipment in your home, as they can be life-saving one day.
A proper inspection is crucial to provide a safe environment to your home's residents and learn the appliance's condition. Working with a professional service helps ensure you identify any potential hazards, address the issues, and increase the effectiveness of your wood-burning appliances. At Atlanta Property Inspections, we are experienced, certified, and professional home inspectors. For the past 25+ years in this industry, our duty has been to provide quality services to our customers. Call us today to learn more about us and our services, or get a free quote for our home inspection service right away.