A Small Chiminea Provides Warmth Without the Mess

With this small chiminea, you get all the warmth of a fire that burns wood without the mess. Simply place lightly scrunched newspaper in the sand or a log grate inside, and add kindling and logs before lighting.

This chic black steel chiminea features an oxidized finish to add a casual flair. The 360-degree grate is ideal for fire's roar, while the tall chimney channels smoke away from you.

Types

A small chiminea can be used to warm a patio or outdoor seating area. They are also an excellent alternative to a grill for cooking outdoors. These units are available in a wide variety of materials, ranging from terra cotta clay to cast iron and steel. They can be designed in either a traditional style or a more modern chiminea style.

Some models include a chimney that carries smoke away from the seating area, which could be beneficial if you reside in an area that has regulations on the amount of smoke released by outdoor fireplaces or other sources of heat. Some models also come with an ash catcher and an ash screen within the chimney. Depending on the size of your room you may want to consider an adobe chiminea which can accommodate a large fire or that can hold a large amount of wood.

The type of material your chiminea is made of is vital as it can affect its performance and the way it appears in your outdoor space. Terra cotta chimineas offer a classic look, but it is susceptible to damage by the elements. A metal chiminea is more durable, but it may require an extra layer of protection to avoid corrosion. A hybrid chiminea, which is typically made from a mix of cast iron and steel could offer the best of both worlds.

In addition to the type of material the size of your chiminea influences the amount of heat it generates. A larger chiminea tends to be heavier and more expensive, but it can also generate more heat than a smaller unit.

Chimineas typically have a beautiful surface that gives them an added appeal. Some are decorated with ornaments and carved designs while others have simple lines and a plain finish. Some have a lid that helps to protect the flames and prevent pets or children from being too close. Some models come with a door to facilitate the addition of fuel and to remove the ashes. There are also chimineas that have an integrated grill that allows you to prepare food with an open flame.

Safety

If you're considering buying a small chiminea, there are a few important precautions to keep in your mind. Chimineas are not inherently unsafe however they can get hot and pose a danger to children and pets when you're not cautious. Take a few precautions to ensure that you enjoy your chiminea for a long time to come.

One of the most important things to remember is that a chiminea's design is not the same as a fireplace or wood stove. They do not have dampers to regulate the flame, and they can easily break if they are not handled properly.

Always use a fire-proof cover for your chiminea in order to prevent rain from entering the stack and causing it to break. This will also help to reduce the smoke nuisance. It is also possible to consider purchasing a freestanding, fireproof frame that can be placed above the smoke stack and shield it from the elements.

Chimineas can create many sparks when they burn and it is recommended to avoid placing them in proximity to flammable materials such as fences, clothes lines and plants. You should also clear the area surrounding your terracotta chiminea prior to lighting it. Make sure there is at least six feet of space between it and any combustible object.

Another precaution is to avoid using gasoline, lighter fluid or any other accelerant in your chimney. These liquids can be dangerous to fire and could cause an explosion inside the chimney. Water should not be used to ignite a chiminea fire as it could cause the clay to crack and even break.

You should only use wood in your chiminea since it will produce less smoke and heat than other types of fuels. When you start your chiminea, you should begin with small pieces of kindling then add larger logs to the flames. If you're having difficulty lighting the kindling you can try putting newspaper into a ball and placing it on the grate. This will generate a strong draft that will ignite the paper and kindling.

Do not burn a Chiminea in the indoors. It can release deadly carbon monoxide fumes that can be deadly for both people and animals. It's also dangerous to fire and could cause serious damage to your home.

Maintenance

When used often, a chiminea makes an attractive addition to any outdoor space, and can provide warmth and ambience. Regular maintenance improves its appearance and reduces accidents and damage making sure it can be enjoyed for years to come. Routine care should include regular cleaning and inspections, both indoors and out and proper storage during off-season weather.

Chimineas should be put in a place that is free of overhanging structures and branches, and also away from combustible material such as pavers and concrete. Placing a chimney directly on top of a roof or any other structure is risky as sparks could fly out of the chimney and ignite anything that is above it. The area should be free of obstructions and large enough to hold the entire chiminea, including the flue, with the possibility of having a few feet of clearance on all sides to ensure safe use.

Chiminies can be cleaned by using water and a mild detergent using soft brushes to avoid damaging the surface of the clay. After washing the chiminea it should be rinsed thoroughly and then allowed to dry completely. Prior to cleaning, it is essential to remove any ash from the chimney and chiminea's bowl. While cleaning it is essential to wear gloves to avoid contact with the hot soot and ash. During the cleaning process, it's important to check the exterior and interior of the vehicle for cracks or chips which may need to be repaired.

If cracks do develop, they can be repaired by using a specially designed clay repair kit available from a variety of biggest chiminea stores. These kits contain all the necessary adhesives and sealants to fix minor fractures and cracks. If the crack is not addressed it can eventually develop into a major issue that affects the integrity of the chiminea, and makes it unsafe to use.

To keep your biggest chiminea in top shape it is recommended to use wood products that have been seasoned and dried. Burning paint or treated wood as well as trash and plastics can create toxic fumes that are released into the chiminea. Proper fuel and regular cleaning help to prevent damage and cracks caused by excessive heat. It is also important to manage the size of fires within Chimineas, and avoid large, roaring flames that can cause thermal shock and stress to the clay.

Cleaning

A modern chiminea that is properly maintained will provide many warm and social evenings. However, just like all outdoor furniture and equipment, it requires regular cleaning to ensure its optimal performance. Prioritising safety is paramount and gloves and goggles are a must-have to protect your skin from dust and debris while cleaning. It is also essential to make sure that the chiminea remains cool before starting the cleaning process. This will not only protect your skin but also prevent breathing in harmful particles that are hot after previous fires.

Before beginning the cleaning process, you must remove any large chunks of ash that have been accumulating in the chiminea, and dispose of them in a safe way. With a wire brush gently brush off any loose rust, making sure to wear your protective gear. A light sanding is beneficial, too, as this helps to eliminate any final rust particles missed by the wire brush and smooths the chiminea's surface ready to be painted with an appropriate high-heat paint that is designed for fireplaces or grills.

Many home improvement stores offer clay repair kits. The inspection should be conducted before using the chiminea, as it will help to strengthen the clay and make it ready for regular heating. It's also a great way to identify any cracks or other damage that might not be visible when the chiminea isn't being in use.

It is essential to remember that a chiminea should only be used outdoors on a non-flammable base such as a concrete slab, sand or a hearth pad. This is particularly important especially if you have children or pets around who might be enticed to play near the embers or if the chiminea is situated near flammable materials such as wooden fences, planters, garden lights and furniture. It's also a good idea to place a lid over the top of your chiminea whenever it's not being used, in order to reduce the risk of flames spreading.