FAQs for Chimney Cleaning and Repair

15 Jun FAQs for Chimney Cleaning and Repair

If you are a new homeowner you probably have questions and concerns about so many things. For many people, it is their first time dealing with a fireplace or a chimney – especially if they lived in an apartment prior to owning a house! To help to explain a few things to new homeowners, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers that you may find helpful.
Why do I need my chimney cleaned?
A chimney helps to keep the air in your home, clean and breathable. To keep your chimney running safely and effectively – it needs special care. If you do not keep your chimney clean and well maintained, it can be very dangerous.
How often do I need to have my chimney cleaned?
The National Fire Protection Association recommends that you clean your chimney at least once a year or even more frequently if you have a fireplace or wood burning appliance that you use frequently. They also recommend that all chimneys, fireplaces and vents be inspected at least once a year. It is a fact that a chimney that is properly maintained and cleaned regularly – will work safely, effectively and efficiently.
What is chimney inspection?
A chimney inspection ensures that all parts of your fireplace and/or chimney are running safely and effectively. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (http://www.csia.org/) explains that there are several levels of chimney inspections. A Level 1 inspection is recommended for a chimney if your appliance or your venting system has not changed and you plan for the same continued use of the appliance. A Level 2 inspection is required when any changes are made to the system and it is more in-depth than a level 1 inspection. A Level 3 inspection includes all the areas and items checked in a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspection, as well as the removal of certain components of the building or chimney where necessary.
Can a dirty chimney really cause a fire?
Yes. If you have a fireplace or a wood burning stove, your chimney is designed to expel the by-products of combustion – the substances produced when wood burns. These include smoke, water vapor, gases, unburned wood particles, hydrocarbon, tar fog and assorted minerals. As these substances exit the fireplace or wood stove and flow up into the chimney, a residue known as creosote sticks to the inner walls of the chimney. Creosote is highly combustible. If it builds up in sufficient quantities and the internal flue temperature is high enough, the unfortunate result could be a chimney fire.
Should I be concerned about carbon monoxide poisoning?
Carbon monoxide is produced whenever gas, oil, kerosene, wood or charcoal is burned and levels can increase if your chimney is not functioning properly. This odorless gas can accumulate to dangerous levels when a blocked chimney or flue prevents the gases from properly venting out and away from the home. Many people die every year because of undetected problems with fuel burning appliances, stoves or fireplaces. While carbon monoxide detectors are effective in alarming homeowners to unsafe levels of this odorless, colorless gas – make sure that your venting systems are inspected and working safely and efficiently at all times.
Where can I find a reputable company to inspect and clean my chimney?
A chimney that is properly maintained and cleaned regularly – will work safely, effectively and efficiently. Pro-Tech Chimney Sweeps offer complete chimney cleaning services that include high powered vacuuming of your entire system, removing hazardous or combustible creosote, eliminating any accumulation of soot from coal and oil systems and thorough fire prevention inspections and maintenance services. Contact Protech Chimney Sweeps today at 631-806-8550 or 516-284-1295 to schedule a chimney cleaning service and ensure the safety of your home.