Important Reasons to Clean the Chimney
Both flues and chimneys have got to be kept clean. Otherwise, things like rubble, an excess of creosote, animal nests, and even animals themselves could block them. That will keep the flue from being able to draw, which will cause the entire room to fill up with smoke. Worse, there are definite safety hazards involved when creosote is allowed to build up. Fire hazards can result. All it takes is one spark to prompt a fire.
You need to clean your flue and your chimney fairly regularly. It should be done at least once a year. Well, specifically, each year you should have the flue itself cleaned. Then, every year, every two years, or every three years, you should have your chimney swept. A visual inspection is a vital part of maintaining your chimney as well. The structure and its integrity, its size, its clearance, its overall condition, and the way it complies with local standards should all be checked.
Services Provided by Chimney Sweepers
The following is a list of the services offered by most chimney sweepers:
* cleaning the flue and the chimney;
* maintaining and repairing;
* cleaning for combustion heaters as well as open fireplaces;
* checking for safety;
* top caps and flue extensions;
* providing the fire bricks used with slow combustion heaters;
* pre gas cleaning for fireplaces;
* replacing both the glass and the door seals;
* installing dampers for the chimney and mesh to protect from the infestation of possums, birds, and other animals;
* servicing heaters;
* removing combustion heaters;
* and performing a complete visual inspection. |
