Chimenea, Chiminea or Chimnea

The correct English spelling is chimenea and is pronounced chim-ih-nee-ah. The correct definition is a free standing front loading fireplace or oven with a bulbous body and usually a vertical smoke vent or chimney.

Common misspellings are chiminea and chimnea. You may find these spellings on this page to aid customers searching using the incorrect spelling.

Mexican Origin

Chimenea originated from Mexico many hundreds of years ago and were traditionally made from clay. They were used as both a source of heat and also a means to cook or bake. Although clay is still popular there are now cast iron and steel alternatives available now.

Clay, Cast Iron or Steel Chimnea

Cast iron chiminea and steel chiminea are much more durable than the clay versions. Special care must be taken with the clay models during the first use and then during periods of frost. Clay models can also crack and crumble if subjected to rapid change of temperature. This can occur when starting a fire on a cold day or a cold down poor of rain on a glowing fire.

Cast iron and steel chimnea will rust very quickly. Even after the first rain fall. This is usual and in many cases it is a desirable effect. Although they are painted with heat resistant paint it often can’t cope with the heat generated and will burn off quickly.

Curing a Clay Chiminea

If you are intent on the clay version then you need to know how to cure it before using it fully. The first fire must be started on a bed of sand using small balls of paper until the chimenea is warm. Then put it out and let it cool.

On the second use its best to keep the bed of sand but build a small fire with wood. Again let it go out and cool down. Over the next three uses its best to build up the fire gradually. Then after that you are ready to go.

During the winter it is advisable to protect the chimenea from frost. The best way to do this is to bring it indoors during winter or if this is not possible then try and cover the chiminea over. It is the damp that will cause the chimenea to crack so ensure that water does not pool inside the belly.

There are many styles and sizes available nowadays. Most cast iron versions have an option for a swing out grill that can be used to cook on. Although this is possible its best to get a barbeque for true outdoor grilling.