Do you love having a fireplace but neglect to schedule your chimney cleaning?
You’re not alone. Fireplaces make a great addition to any living space due to their soothing nature. However, to preserve their life and prevent fires, they need to be maintained.
If you’re on the fence, we’ll share what a chimney cleaning involves and why a professional chimney cleaning is likely your best option.
What is a chimney cleaning and inspection?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) suggests that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents be inspected once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances.
At AES Hearth & Patio, we require an inspection for new customers to determine the condition of your chimney and reveal any safety hazards. Our Certified Chimney Professionals use a video scanner to examine any internal joints for voids or cracks. We will bring your chimney or current unit installation up to code before we continue with any other service.
Prior to a chimney cleaning, your sweep will prep the area, and then use a long rod with bristles to remove the build-up that’s accumulated on the chimney liner.
Why is it important to maintain your chimney?
1. Removing Pests and Debris
If you have an obstruction such as pests or debris in your chimney, then your home is at risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Homeowners may try to create a large fire to attempt to burn up the obstructions but “fighting fire with fire” is not the answer. This creates a volatile situation and could cause a major house fire. A trained chimney sweep is equipped to clear everything out in the safest manner possible.
2. Removing Build-up to Prevent Fires
Creosote, the tar that builds up when you burn wood in your fireplace, must be monitored in order to avoid house fires. The leading cause of chimney fires, creosote, is extremely flammable. This means something as little as a stray spark or high temperature could cause it to ignite.
Cleaning creosote on your own is possible with store-bought cleaners. However, it can be difficult to see and be thorough. A professional chimney cleaner has the knowledge and the cleaning equipment to complete the job.
3. Discovering Hidden Chimney Problems
There are more components to the average chimney than most people realize, so detecting issues with any of them can be difficult. When cleaning your own chimney, you may miss problems with the brick, flue liner, or damper system.
Professional chimney cleaners are well-versed in all types of chimneys and how they function.
4. Preserving Your Flue Liners
Flue liners are one of those important aspects of your chimney that you may not pay attention to. However, they’re integral in protecting you from fire and carbon monoxide poisoning and insulating the chimney from high temperatures and smoke, which can slowly deteriorate your flue liner.
An annual professional chimney cleaning can help preserve and boost the lifespan of your flue liner.
AES Hearth & Patio: Your Chimney Experts
Professional chimney cleaning can preserve the life of your chimney and protect your home and family.
AES Hearth & Patio is a full-service fireplace and hearth retailer and we understand the intricacies and requirements of each unit. We have years of expertise in installing and servicing our customers’ hearths and taking care of your home as if it were our own.
To request an estimate for your chimney inspection or cleaning, contact us today. Spring and summer are great times to schedule your chimney cleaning since winter months tend to be busier for our service team.
