Having technicians come out and perform a thorough cleaning of the inside of your chimney probably isn’t high on your list of favorite things to do around the house. At least not until you realize all the very positive benefits that come from this service. National Chimney Cleaners of Fairfield County, CT, and Morris County, NJ, would like to share 5 of the distinct benefits you’ll enjoy when you schedule annual chimney sweep and inspection services.
1. Dramatically reduce the chance of fireMost chimney fires each year are started by creosote, which is a smoke byproduct that accumulates in your chimney flue every time you use your fireplace. Creosote is highly flammable, and it can be difficult to remove without the right tools. Professional chimney sweeps use industry-grade scrubbers, rods, rotating brushes, cleaning solvents and vacuums to do this job correctly.
Regular chimney cleaning reduces the level of drafting obstructions in your chimney. These obstructions can include soot and creosote as well as outside debris such as leaves, twigs and the nesting material of small animals. A flue narrowed by debris will cause smoke and carbon monoxide to back up into your home. You can’t smell or see carbon monoxide, but it’s known to be dangerous and potentially deadly to humans and animals.
Along with causing chimney fires, creosote also causes interior chimney damage. This substance can be flaky, puffy, sticky or solid, and it’s highly acidic in all forms. If allowed to remain in your chimney, creosote can begin to eat away at your chimney liner. When the liner is compromised, heat and flames can damage your chimney’s interior masonry or parts of your home. A lot of house fires start this way.
Professional chimney sweeps like to perform general safety inspections while on chimney cleaning projects. A chimney inspection is the best way for you to be alerted to early signs of structural damage, component damage and malfunction within your chimney system. Most chimney sweeps can make needed repairs to your chimney, often at the time of the cleaning and inspection. If extensive repairs are needed, you can schedule a time for them.
5. Peace of mindPerhaps the biggest benefit of having your chimney cleaned and inspected is the peace of mind it brings. We’ve all heard the “horror stories” of chimney fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and major chimney disasters that can occur when a chimney is neglected.
Professional chimney service will bring peace of mind to you and everyone in your home. When your chimney is properly cleaned and serviced, you’ll know that you’ve done all the right things to keep it safe, efficient and fully operational.
If it’s been more than a year since your chimney was last cleaned, National Chimney Cleaners is standing by to help. Give us a call at 800-631-6177 or reach out through our handy contact form.
