Cleaning a wood burning fireplace is an important task that should not be overlooked. While it is possible to do it yourself, it is not recommended due to the complexity of the job and the potential safety risks. Most chimney cleaning kits consist of rods with trimmed brushes at one end and a drill at the other to turn the rod. It is recommended to clean the chimney at least once a year or twice if you use it frequently, as this will help maximize efficiency and detect potential problems.
Chimney cleaning logs are never a substitute for professional cleaning and tend to cause fires rather than prevent them. The price for cleaning a chimney is usually lower for furnace chimneys due to the lack of creosote. Hiring a professional chimney cleaner is the best option for a complete chimney sweep. Spring, summer, and early fall are the best times of year for cleaning a chimney, as the weather is more favorable for this task.
