How Often Should You Clean Your Chimney?

To ensure that all of their systems are working properly and functioning as they should, it is recommended that homeowners undergo an annual chimney inspection. Most people choose to do a chimney clean every year, especially if they use their chimney regularly. Other ventilation systems connected to ovens and stoves should also be cleaned regularly to maintain safer operation. Fireplace, stove, oven and heating systems are important for the safety of your home and family, and not an area to neglect or reduce expenses.

Don't risk the possibility that an undiscovered defect will turn into a costly repair or, worse, a chimney fire. It is essential to have an annual chimney inspection by a reputable chimney sweep organization, such as Petro. Depending on how often you use the fireplace to burn firewood, creosote residue will build up in the chimney. There are many factors that influence the amount of creosote attached to the walls of the chimney, such as the volume of air flow entering the chimney and the burning of improperly cured wood, that encourage such buildup.

Creosote will also accumulate in the chimney if there is unburned wood in the combustion chamber. Of all the tasks you strive to keep up with in your home (cleaning brass, cleaning grout, cleaning mold, cleaning regularly), chances are that cleaning the chimney isn't at the top of your list. While you're comfortable in front of the fireplace watching the crackling flames, soot buildup and flammable waste aren't exactly romantic things to think about (out of sight, out of mind, right?). But it's important to remember that regular maintenance is essential for safety and efficiency.

As with a wood burning installation, gas fireplace chimneys should be inspected and cleaned once a year. It's not so much creosote to worry about, as a bird's nest may need to be removed. You should inspect and clean the chimney at least once a year, and provided that you have creosote glaze. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends that all chimneys be cleaned and inspected annually because if the system is compromised, a fire hazard is created.

Annual chimney cleanings ensure there are no fire hazards, such as dirt, debris, soot buildup, or creosote frosting. In addition to cleaning the chimney every year, it is important to perform a professional check to ensure that the system is not in poor condition. Have the tools needed for this DIY chimney cleaning project ready before you start; it will save you time and frustration. Homeowners are urged to inspect their chimneys for creosote buildup and clean if necessary in the spring of each year.

An examination by an experienced chimney sweep is the only way to know if your chimney, whether masonry or metal, needs cleaning. Then he took a wire brush and simply rubbed any buildup from the main opening to the chimney, without even going up the chimney to clean anything. We have a team of qualified and dedicated technicians who can assist you with chimney inspection and cleaning. If you don't want to be put in this devastating situation, then the easiest way for you is to keep cleaning your chimneys regularly.

If you don't feel comfortable climbing to your roof, use this alternative method to clean the chimney. Once you've packed your bags and climbed the ladder, clean any spots you haven't seen at the bottom of the chimney with the small brush. You can safely assume that your chimney and, by extension, your home will not last long if your cleaning process is neglected.