How often should I get my chimney cleaned?
Chimney Sweeps of America, Denver Colorado
When you think of having your chimney cleaned, does Mary Poppins come to mind? The professional chimney sweep has been in existence for hundreds of years and provides a valuable service for the safety and preservation of your fireplace and chimney.
How often should I get my chimney cleaned is a question frequently asked by homeowners. The best time to clean your fireplace is the spring, summer or early fall. In Colorado burning a nightly fire is a favorite winter activity.
Unfortunately, the average homeowner isn’t properly informed about the importance of chimney maintenance and cleaning. How often you should have your chimney cleaned depends on the how frequently it is used. If you regularly use your fireplace, a yearly cleaning and inspection are recommended to make sure all your systems are in working order. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA ) says, “Fireplaces, Chimneys, Flues and Venting Systems need to be inspected at least once a year for freedom from deposits, soundness, and correct clearances. Maintenance, Repairs and Cleaning shall be done if necessary.”
Creosote is the sooty build up inside your chimney created by the burning wood. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that fireplaces be cleaned when 1/8” of soot buildup is visible inside the chimney or flue. Homeowners may not be able to detect soot build up. Chimney Sweeps of America’s technicians are certified by the CSIA to provide an expert opinion on your fireplace safety and whether or not it needs cleaning.
A trained chimney sweep will remove blockages and built-up creosote as well as soot from your fireplace, chimney liner, damper and smoke chamber.
A cleaning will help create a safer operation of your system during the heating system. Creosote is a highly flammable substance that builds up inside your chimney or liner as a result of burning wood. Only a small amount of creosote is needed to create the potential for a chimney fire. Most people don’t realize that different types of wood create different amounts of creosote when burned. Pine logs cause a rapid build-up of creosote and should be avoided. The build up of creosote can also reduce the draw of your fireplace and reduce efficiency.
A chimney inspection is also necessary to ensure the safety of your fireplace. It will determine if your chimney was affected by the freeze and thaw cycles resulting in cracks in the masonry and liner that allow deadly gasses into your home. Fixing any defects promptly is the best way to avoid costly repairs and the safest most cost-effective way to go.
Let Chimney Sweeps of America, serving the Denver Colorado market ensure your safety with a chimney cleaning and inspection. Don’t risk an undiscovered defect that could turn into an expensive repair or worse yet – a chimney fire.