Before the first fireplace use of the season.

For a wood-burning fireplace

Confirm the damper is fully open before lighting a fire. Use only dry, seasoned wood and suitable fire-starting materials. Keep flammable items away from the opening and follow the fireplace manufacturer’s instructions where they apply.

EPA guidance identifies wood at 20% moisture or less as the preferred target. Split and stack wood off the ground, protect the top from snow or rain, keep the sides open for air movement, and use a moisture meter on a freshly split face.

If smoke enters the room, stop using the fireplace and have the system assessed. Do not try to solve a persistent draft or smoke problem by changing the fuel, forcing the damper, or improvising a repair.

For a gas fireplace

Have the make and model available. If the appliance has changed in ignition behavior, flame appearance, odor, sound, or operation, do not treat this page as a repair manual. Consult the manufacturer information and arrange the appropriate service conversation.

Gas systems and their venting still deserve regular attention. A clear description of the appliance and what changed is the fastest way to begin responsibly.

Simple questions to have ready

What kind of system do you have? When was it last used or serviced? What changed? Did the issue appear with weather, use, or a specific event? Those basic answers make every next step more precise.