4 Signs You Need A Chimney Cleaning At Your Home
If your home has a wood-burning fireplace, then you should schedule a professional chimney cleaning at least once a year. If it's been a while since your last professional chimney cleaning, or if you're not sure when your last chimney cleaning was, then it may be time to schedule one with a reputable chimney sweep in your area. Not sure whether you're due for a chimney cleaning? There are a few red flags to watch out for.
You Struggle With Maintaining a Fire
If you've noticed that you suddenly have a hard time getting a fire to light or getting it to stay lit, then this could actually be caused by poor airflow due to a blocked chimney flue or other issues with buildup. The best course of action here is to contact a chimney professional for an inspection, but it is likely that your chimney will need cleaning.
You've Noticed Excess Smoke
You should never notice any smoke lingering inside your home when you have a fire going. When the chimney shaft is properly cleaned, there should be plenty of airflow to carry smoke from the fire out of your home. If you notice any buildup of smoke while you're having a fire, it's time to put the fire out immediately and call a chimney sweep.
Your Chimney Has Noticeable Buildup
When you peer into your chimney shaft, can you notice a buildup of black, sooty material along the inside walls? If so, then you're probably looking at creosote, which builds up along the surfaces of a chimney anytime you have a fire. Unfortunately, creosote buildup is dangerous and very flammable, which is why it's so important to schedule regular chimney cleanings.
There's an Unpleasant Odor
If you smell anything other than the scent of burning wood while you're having a fire, then this could also indicate an issue with airflow caused by a chimney in need of cleaning. This can also be dangerous, as you could have harmful gases entering your home. Stop use of your fireplace immediately if you notice any strange smells and contact a chimney professional right away.
With a clean chimney, you can more safely enjoy use of your home's fireplace. If you've notice any of these red flags in your own home, however, then it's probably time to call a chimney sweep. He or she will be able to evaluate your chimney and conduct a cleaning if needed.
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