A practical fall checklist so the first fire of the season is safe, clean-burning and smoke-free.
Cincinnati heating season effectively starts on the first cold weekend in October, and that is also when every chimney company in the tri-state is booked out. Work through this in August or September instead.
The checklist
- 1Book the annual sweep and inspection before the rush
- 2Check the damper opens fully and seals when closed
- 3Look at the cap from the ground — rust, tilt or a missing cap means water is getting in
- 4Scan the stack for spalled brick, open joints and crown cracks
- 5Clear branches and leaves near the chimney top
- 6Stock seasoned hardwood, split and stored at least six months, off the ground and covered
- 7Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level
- 8Confirm the hearth extension and clearances are clear of rugs and furniture
- 9Have the fire extinguisher accessible and in date
Lighting the first fire
Open the damper fully and let the flue warm before loading wood — a rolled newspaper held up the throat for a minute reverses a cold-air downdraft. Start small, build hot and bright, and never damp a fire down to smolder overnight. Smoldering fires are how glazed creosote forms.
If smoke comes into the room
- Confirm the damper is fully open
- Crack a window in tight, newer homes — the house may be depressurized by exhaust fans
- A blocked flue, undersized cap or short chimney can all cause rollback and should be evaluated
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book a chimney sweep in Cincinnati?
August through September. Appointments in October and November are typically weeks out, and dry weather means any repairs found can be completed before winter.
How do I know if firewood is seasoned?
It is lighter than green wood, has cracks radiating from the end grain, and two pieces knocked together sound hollow rather than dull. A moisture meter should read under 20%.
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