How Do I Use a Fireplace?

Introduction: Why Learning to Use a Fireplace Matters

There’s something undeniably relaxing about sitting by the fireplace on a cool evening. Whether it’s inside your home or outside on the patio, a crackling fire adds ambiance, warmth, and charm to any space. But if you’re new to using a fireplace—especially an outdoor wood burning fireplace—it’s important to learn the basics of safety, setup, and upkeep.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to safely use your fireplace, including must-have tools like a fireplace grate, tips for building your own DIY outdoor fireplace, and how to organize wood with a fireplace log holder. By the end, you'll be ready to light your first fire with confidence and style.

Choose the Right Fireplace for Your Space

Before anything else, you’ll need to decide which type of fireplace suits your outdoor (or indoor) setup. For a rustic and classic backyard experience, many homeowners love the feel of an outdoor wood burning fireplace. These are typically built from stone, brick, or metal and require proper ventilation and clearance from flammable materials.

Why Choose an Outdoor Wood Burning Fireplace?

Provides natural heat and ambiance

Works even when power is out

Ideal for cooking s’mores or casual grilling

If you're hands-on with home projects, you can also explore a DIY outdoor fireplace build for a custom look that fits your backyard’s style.

Get the Right Tools and Accessories

Using a fireplace safely and efficiently means having the proper tools on hand. Whether you're using a store-bought model or working on a DIY outdoor fireplace, here are a few essentials:

Must-Have Fireplace Accessories:

Fireplace grate: Holds wood above the base for better airflow and cleaner burns

Fireplace log holder: Keeps your firewood dry, tidy, and within reach

Fire poker and tongs: For safely adjusting logs

Ash bucket: For clean and safe ash disposal

Investing in a quality fireplace grate not only improves combustion but also extends the life of your fireplace by preventing excessive ash buildup on the base.

How to Safely Start a Fire

Lighting your fire is more than just tossing in a match. Follow these steps to get a safe and efficient burn:

Fire-Building Steps:

Open any dampers or vents for airflow if indoors.

Place the fireplace grate inside and stack smaller kindling underneath larger logs.

Use fire starters like dry twigs, newspaper, or firelighters—never gasoline or lighter fluid.

Light the kindling and let it burn for a few minutes before adding more wood.

Monitor your fire at all times and never leave it unattended.

Once it’s burning steadily, place extra logs neatly on your fireplace log holder so they’re ready when needed.

Enjoying Time by the Fireplace

Now that your fire is lit and your space is warm, it’s time to enjoy the best part: relaxing by the fireplace. Whether you're hosting friends or sipping cocoa solo, a fireplace adds charm and coziness to any moment.

To elevate your outdoor experience:

Add seating with weather-resistant cushions

Drape cozy throws for chilly nights

Use string lights or lanterns for ambiance

Many Sunjoy customers use their outdoor wood burning fireplace as the centerpiece for family gatherings, romantic evenings, or even quiet moments of reflection under the stars.

Maintaining Your Fireplace for Safety and Longevity

Just like any feature in your home or garden, a fireplace needs upkeep to stay safe and functional.

Fireplace Maintenance Tips:

Clean out ash after every few uses

Inspect your fireplace grate for wear or rust

Store firewood properly with a covered fireplace log holder

Schedule annual chimney or flue inspections for permanent fireplaces

Even if you have a DIY outdoor fireplace, taking the time to maintain it will ensure it lasts for many cozy seasons to come.

Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Fireplace Experience

Whether you’re warming up by a fireplace indoors or enjoying a crackling flame under the stars, using your fireplace properly is the key to comfort, safety, and long-term enjoyment. From choosing a quality outdoor wood burning fireplace to organizing your firewood with a fireplace log holder, the right setup makes all the difference.

If you’re ready to enhance your backyard with the warmth and charm of fire, explore Sunjoy’s stylish and durable fireplace solutions today.

Shop Sunjoy Fireplaces & Accessories

Find the perfect outdoor wood burning fireplace, fireplace grate, or stylish fireplace log holder at sunjoyshop.com and start enjoying your evenings by the fireplace in style.