Why Chimney Fires Happen in Canyon Lake Homes and How to Prevent Them
When Canyon Lake Fire Department reported two chimney fires in the first two weeks of January, plus more throughout the year, it caught my attention (canyonlakeinsider.com). As someone who sees inside hundreds of fireplaces every year, I can tell you: this is a bigger problem than most people realize.
This isn’t just about brush fires or wildfires. This is about protecting your fireplace and your home from damage. It’s about stopping a small fireplace fire from turning into a disaster.
Why Chimney Fires Happen in Canyon Lake
Most fireplace fires start because of creosote buildup. That’s the black, sticky residue left behind when wood doesn’t burn hot enough or when the flue isn’t drafting properly. Creosote is basically fuel for a fire you don’t want. It burns inside your fireplace and chimney system, often without you even knowing it.
Once creosote ignites, it burns at temperatures over 2,000 degrees. That kind of heat damages your fireplace, cracks flue tiles, warps metal, and can send flames or embers into your attic. I’ve personally seen Canyon Lake fireplaces where the back wall is scorched, the chase cover is melted, and the surrounding wood framing is one spark away from disaster.
Canyon Lake Homes Have Custom Fireplaces and Custom Problems
Most homes in Canyon Lake were built between the late 1970s and the early 1990s. A lot of these homes have factory-built fireplaces or masonry units that were installed during a time when building inspections were, frankly, a joke. I’ve been told by some long time residents that even in the 90s, building inspections were often times done from the curb if it was too hot to get out of the truck that day or on owner-builder permits where the inspector knew the owner and it was a wink-and-handshake deal. I’ve seen fireplaces with missing liners, cracked refractory panels, rusted out fireboxes, and improperly installed fireplaces in Canyon Lake that have been in daily use for years. Daily use does not equate to safe use. Good luck and fortune has certainly been at play.
These are custom homes. With custom work comes unique problems. Especially when the fireplace was never installed properly or maintained over time.
Local Fire Data from Canyon Lake Fire Department
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Two reported fireplace fires in January started off 2025 and several more in 2024.
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Canyon Lake Fire responded to 1,112 total incidents last year, with 43 of them classified as fires (canyonlakeinsider.com).
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Fireplace-related fires continue to be a major cause of home damage in Canyon Lake and the surrounding areas.
How to Protect Your Fireplace and Your Home
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Get your fireplace inspected and cleaned every year. It’s the National Standard and also recommended by your local fire department.
Older Canyon Lake homes often need more than just a basic sweep. I recommend a Level 2 inspection if your fireplace has never had one. -
Burn the right kind of wood.
Only use seasoned hardwood in your fireplace. Avoid eucalyptus and pine like your life depends on it as it often leaves behind more creosote than woods such as citrus, avocado, or other nut or fruit tree woods. -
Keep an eye on your firebox and damper.
Look for signs of wear, cracks, or damage inside the fireplace before each burn season. -
Watch for warning signs.
If your fireplace smells odd when it’s not in use, if you hear loud whooshing sounds when burning, or if smoke backs up into the room, it’s time to call a pro.
How We Can Help
At Advanced Chimney Cleaning Inc., we specialize in fireplace inspections, cleanings, and repairs across Canyon Lake. We’ve seen the worst-case scenarios when a fireplace is neglected, but we’ve also helped prevent fires and keep homes safe.
If you’re not sure whether your fireplace is safe to use, or if you’ve never had it professionally inspected, give us a call. We’re happy to take a look.
Call us at 951-698-8676 or visit www.AdvancedChimneyCleaning.com to set up a fireplace inspection today.