subject: Fireplace Grate - A Simple Accessory That Performs a Very Important Function [print this page] Fireplace Grate - A Simple Accessory That Performs a Very Important Function
A fireplace grate performs a very important function of maintaining airflow in your fireplace to ensure proper combustion. If you want to understand the importance of the fireplace grate, just remove the grate and try to light the fire with the help of logs of wood.
You will quickly notice that the top few logs burn properly but the logs at the bottom never really catch fire. Despite your best efforts, combustion remains very poor and generation of ash is very high. Further, the fireplace will generate a lot of smoke and the overall experience will be less than enjoyable.
Now, just fix the fireplace grate and try repeating this process. You will quickly discover that each and every log of wood burns properly and the ash quickly falls down to the base. This improves combustion, reduces smoke and reduces the suspension of particulate matter in the air. This is a reason why the fireplace grate is very important.
Metal fireplace grates are very common because the grate will have to withstand very high temperatures. Further, it should be strong enough to withstand the weight of logs of wood on it.
However, there are numerous options available as far as metal grates are concerned. Further, you can go in for different colored grates. Of course, the fire will convert everything into black. However, if you feel like, you can go in for matching colored grates so that the end result is not black but gray or some other dark color.
The World Wide Web is a great place to search for not only fireplace grate options but cleaning and maintenance tips. If you do not keep the fireplace grate clean, you will automatically face the problem of ash because it will simply fall on the grate and will not reach the base of the fireplace.
Further, a clogged fireplace metal grate will not enhance the circulation of air. You will have to consider all these factors and clean the metal grate on a regular basis.
It goes without saying that you should wait for the grate to cool down before you even touch it. With temperatures so high, you can easily burn your skin if you handle the grate before it is cool.
Further, you will have to use the right detergent and clean the grate properly. Use of simple water may not suffice. Make sure the grate is completely dry before you fit it back into the fireplace. If you do not do so, chances are high that the grate will retard combustion.
