Your chimenea is a patio fireplace and should be placed in a safe area outside. It is sealed on the outside so that moisture won't penetrate the terracotta clay. This should be done every few years dependent upon exposure. "Future" brand acrylic floor finish is suggested, but any water sealer will do. After numerous burnings, soot, and resin buildup will seal the inside as well. It is suggested to bring indoors during freezing temperatures. If your chimenea is in an uncovered area it is suggested to put a lid or cover over the flu to keep rainwater from building up in the bowl. Any wood can be burned in a chimenea. DO NOT use charcoal or an abundance of wood pellets, as they may burn hotter than normal wood and could cause damage. (Some woods may crackle and spark, if this occurs it is suggested to secure screen mesh over openings.)

The chimenea should be burned with at least 10 small fires to begin the sealing process, and thereafter it is suggested that only small to medium fires be burned. It is also important that the fires be kept in the middle of the bowl. Your chimenea is not intended as a primary heat source. This product is designed to create atmosphere and some warmth. It is not intended for roaring fires, cooking, or extreme heat! Failure to follow these instructions may cause damage to your chimenea.

• It is important to remember that this is an outdoor fireplace and should not be used indoors. You should observe the same precautions you would use with any fire.
• To cure the clay chimenea properly, it is recommended that the first 8-10 fires be held to a low temperature. This will temper the walls and help preserve the looks and life of your new purchase.

Starting Procedure

Set-up: Place chimenea on stand and pour any sand into the chimenea to within 2-3 inches from bottom lip of the mouth. Place 2-3 chunks of wood in center of bowl allowing for airflow in between pieces. Put a little kindling (twigs etc.) centered between wood chunks. Various starting methods may be used, such as electric briquette starters, paraffin logs, etc. (Do not use gasoline, kerosene, starter fluids, or any other substance which might create rapid fire or immediate high temperatures.) Heat should be slowly increased to allow clay to expand without causing damage. Allow the wood to catch well. If you wish some heat, add wood as needed. If, on the other hand you wish to enjoy the aroma of pinion or other aromatic woods - with no heat - simply allow the wood to catch well, then use a stick or poker to tumble the wood chunks in the sand to smother the flame. Then scoot the wood back towards the center of the bowl. Add slowly as needed. Sand and ash mix will have to be changed periodically based on use.

When lifting or moving your chimenea, place one hand under the upper lip of the mouth and the other hand supporting the neck. When repositioning chimenea, remove sand and ash from the unit first.

If used on a wooden deck, proctet the deck with non-combustible material such as a "UL Listed stove mat" or "hearth board" to catch sparks or popping coals. Do not use within four feet of any combustible materials; or in high winds.