Do You Need to Remove Ashes Behind Firebrick?

Performance

• When excess ash gathers in a fireplace or stove, including behind firebricks, it can block passageways, such as chimneys and flues, which allow smoke to escape. As a result, ash buildup can lead to poor performances in stoves or fireplaces, such as dirty or sooty burns. These conditions will fill rooms with smoky air and stenches.

Frequency and Levels

• During periods of frequent use, check the ash levels behind the firebricks on a weekly basis. If the ash pile measures more than 2 inches, clean out the area immediately, but do not remove all of the ashes. Leave an inch or two of ash to serve as insulation for the hot coals or wood placed on top of the firebricks.

Removable Ash Traps

• Some wood-burning stoves feature removable ash traps located behind firmly embedded firebricks. While most firebricks are movable, some sit clasped inside retention plates, which in turn are screwed into the ground. After you unclasp the firebricks, you can gain easy access to the removable traps that collect the stove’s ash. Once the ash cools off completely, dump the contents into the trash. You can also use cool wood ash, filled with nutrients, to fertilize your garden.

Cleaning Devices

• Remove ash from a fireplace using a customized vacuum cleaner. Many of these devices suggest users avoid placing the vacuum cleaner directly on ash piles because large pieces of debris, like charcoal, may clog the machine. Instead, place the vacuum at a slight angle against the firebricks, creating a narrow suction passage for just the ash. You can also sweep up the ash manually using a small hand-held broom and dust pan.