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A Small Chiminea Provides Warmth Without the Mess
With this small chiminea, you get all the warmth of a wood-burning fire without the mess. Place newspaper lightly scrunched into the log grate or sand grates, and then add the kindling and logs prior to lighting.
This stylish black steel chiminea comes with an oxidized look to add an informal look. The 360-degree grate maximizes your crackling flames and the tall chimney carries smoke upwards and away from you.
Types
A small chiminea is a fire pit that can add an additional element of warmth to a seating area or patio. They are also an excellent alternative to a grill to cook outdoors. They are available in a wide variety of materials, from clay made of terra cotta, to cast iron and steel. They can be made in either a traditional design or a more contemporary style.
Some of these units feature chimneys that direct smoke away from the seating area. This may be useful when you live in a region where there are regulations regarding the amount of smoke that outdoor fireplaces and other heat sources can emit. Some models have an ash screen and a spark screen within the fireplace. Based on the size of your room, you might be interested in an adobe chiminea which can accommodate a large fire or that holds a lot of wood.
The type of material your chiminea is made of is vital as it can affect its performance and how it appears in your outdoor space. Terra cotta models are classic however they are susceptible to being damaged by the elements. Metal Chimineas are stronger, but they might require a protective coat to prevent corrosion. A hybrid chiminea consists of a mixture of stainless steel and cast iron. It could have the best characteristics of both.
The size of your chiminea can affect the amount of heat that is produced. A larger chiminea is heavier and more expensive but can generate more heat.
Chimineas often have a decorative surface that gives them an added touch of charm. Some are embellished with ornaments or carved designs while others have plain lines and a plain finish. Some have a lid which helps protect the flames and keep pets or children from being too close. Certain models come with doors that make it easier to add fuel or remove the ashes. You can also find models with a built-in grill, which allows you to cook food on a flame.
Safety
If you're considering buying a small chiminea, there are some important safety measures to keep in your mind. Chimineas are not inherently unsafe, but they do get hot and can pose a risk to pets and children in the event that you're not careful. Be aware of a few safety steps to ensure that you enjoy your chiminea for many years to come.
It is important to understand that a fireplace or wood stove is not a Chiminea. They do not have dampers to regulate the burning, and are prone to break if are not handled carefully.
Use a fire-resistant lid on your chiminea. This will stop rain from entering and damaging the stack. It also helps reduce smoke nuisance. You may also want to consider purchasing a freestanding, fireproof frame that can stand above the smoke stack and protect it from the elements.
Chimineas can create a lot of sparks when they're burning and it is recommended to avoid placing them near flame-prone materials like fences, clothes lines, and plants. You should also clear the area around your chiminea before lighting it. Make sure there are at least six feet between it and any combustible object.
Another precaution is to never use gasoline, lighter fluid or any other accelerant in your chiminea. These liquids can be a fire hazard and can cause an explosion in the chimney. You should also never make use of water to set off the flames in a chiminea because it can cause the clay to crack or even break.
It is recommended to make use of wood for your chiminea as it produces less heat and smoke than other types of fuels. When Fireplaces & Stoves light your chiminea, begin with small pieces of kindling then add larger logs to the flames. If you aren't able to light the kindling quickly, try balling up some newspaper and putting it against the grate in the stack - this creates an explosive draft that will quickly light the paper as well as your kindling.
Never burn a chiminea indoors since it can release dangerous carbon monoxide gasses, which are lethal to people and animals too. It's also a fire hazard and can cause serious damage to your home.
Maintenance
A chiminea can be an attractive addition to any outdoor area and can provide warmth and atmosphere when it is used regularly. Proper maintenance will enhance its appearance, avoid injuries and dangers to safety and ensure that it will be enjoyed for a long time to be. Routine care should include regular cleaning and inspections both inside and outside and also appropriate storage in the off-season.
Chimineas should be placed in a location that is free of structures and branches that hang over, and away from combustible substances such as pavers or concrete. Placing a chiminea beneath a roof or another structure is also risky, as sparks could be released from the chimney and ignite anything above it. The area must be clean and large enough to hold the entire chiminea, including flue, and have a few feet of clearance on all sides for the safety of use.
Chiminies must be cleaned with a mild detergent and water using soft brushes and an absorbent cloth to prevent damaging the clay surface. After washing, the chiminea must be rinsed thoroughly and dried completely. Prior to cleaning, it is essential to remove any ash from the chimney and chiminea's bowl. When cleaning it is essential to wear gloves to avoid contact with the hot soot and ash. During the process, it is also important to inspect the exterior and interior for any chips or cracks that may require repair.
Most chiminea retailers sell a clay repair kit that can be used to repair cracks. These kits include all the necessary adhesives and sealants to fix minor cracks and fractures. If a fracture is left untreated and it gets worse, it can turn into an issue that threatens the safety and integrity of the Chiminea.
To keep the chiminea in good shape it must be powered with natural wood products that are seasoned and dry. Burning paint or treated wood, as well as plastics and trash can cause toxic fumes to be released into the chiminea. A well-maintained and efficient fuel can help prevent cracking or damage caused by excessive heat. It is important to control the size of the flames in the chiminea. Avoiding huge, roaring flames that can cause thermal shock to the clay.
Cleaning
A chiminea that is well maintained will provide many warm and convivial evenings. Like most outdoor furniture and equipment, a chiminea has to be cleaned frequently to ensure optimal performance. Prioritising safety is paramount and gloves and goggles are a must-have to protect your skin from dust and debris while cleaning. Before cleaning the chiminea it is essential to ensure that the chiminea is completely cooled. This will not only protect your skin, but also stop the inhalation of harmful particles that could be hot from previous fires.
Eliminate any large clumps of rust that have been accumulating in the chiminea prior to when you begin cleaning. Dispose of them in a safe manner. Wearing protective gear, use a wirebrush to gently remove loose rust. A light sanding process is beneficial because it removes any remaining rust particles the wire brush missed and smooths the surface of your chiminea.
Most home improvement stores sell clay repair kits. It's a good idea to carry out this inspection before your first time using the chiminea as it will help in strengthening the clay, and also prepare it for regular heating. It's also a good way to check for any cracks or other damages that might not be visible even when the chiminea hasn't been in use.
It is important to note that you should only make use of a chiminea outdoors on a nonflammable base, such as a concrete or sand slab or hearth pad. This is especially important especially if you have pets or children in the area who might be enticed to play near the flames or if your chiminea's located near flammable materials like wooden fences, planters, garden lights and furniture. It's also recommended to put a lid over the top of your chiminea when it's not being used, in order to limit the possibility of flames spreading.
