Clean firebox ash
Why it matters
Ash deeper than 1 inch insulates the fire from the grate. Trapped hot embers remain alive for 72+ hours.
Stop forgetting to do this.
Hearth generates a personalized maintenance schedule so you never miss another clean firebox ash.
How to do it
- 1
Wait at least 24 hours after your last fire to ensure all embers are cold.
- 2
Wear heat-resistant gloves and a dust mask to protect from ash particles.
- 3
Use a fireplace rake or shovel to gently scrape ash toward the center.
- 4
Rake ash into a pile and scoop it into a metal fireplace ash bucket.
- 5
Leave a thin layer (under 1 inch) of ash on the grate for insulation.
- 6
Transfer ash to a metal container and place outside on bare soil, away from wood structures.