What are some chimney cleaning tips? Annual chimney cleaning and inspection is recommended for optimum fireplace performance. A good chimney brush is an inexpensive and invaluable tool for keeping your chimney clean.
Nothing says romance quite like cuddling up in front of a roaring fire. Champagne being sipped by firelight, while holding the one you love is probably one of the most romantic images of all time. Funny how that image never makes mention of the extensive maintenance and upkeep that goes with owning a fireplace. While offering plenty of benefits, fireplaces also require extensive attention to ensure complete enjoyment by the homeowner.
One area that many consumers routinely overlook before purchasing a home with a fireplace or adding one to an existing home is the maintenance required. It's mandatory that fireplaces be cleaned and well maintained in order to reduce the likelihood of a fire in or around the house.
However, cleaning the fireplace itself will not completely solve the problem. Instead, fireplace owners with chimneys are advised to clean the stacks or chimney at least once a year.
"We recommend that you have it inspected and cleaned annually," says Dennis Capo of Malm Fireplaces. "A lot of times your inspection will show that it does not need to be cleaned, but that is your best bet. And if you are burning wood in it for more than three quarters of the year, you should do it at the end of every third quarter."
Along the same lines as cleaning the gutters on your roof, cleaning the chimney is a project that can be done by any homeowner. Capo also says that most fireplace shops can assist you in getting started and point you in the right direction for the tools you will need.
"The average homeowner can do the cleaning themselves," Capo says. "They sell chimney brushes in most fireplace shops for about $39."
As Capo stated, most fireplace shops will have the necessary items needed to clean a chimney. The basic items you will need are brushes and chimney rods. Be sure that before you get started on the chimney cleaning process that you change into appropriate clothing. Don't wear anything new and attempt to find clothing that is easy to move and climb around in.
Since you will have to go onto the roof to clean the chimney, be sure to check the status of your ladder and surroundings. Be aware of the ground that you are climbing on and be careful not to rush. If at all possible, try to enlist the help of a friend or someone who might be able to troubleshoot small details from the ground.
Once on the roof, be sure to remove the chimney cap and check it for weather damage. The chimney cap's purpose is to keep sparks from leaving the chimney, as well as keeping debris, animals, and rain out. If the chimney cap has suffered damage, experts suggest that you replace it with a new one immediately.
When you've finished the process of cleaning your chimney, be sure to clean the area around the chimney. Make sure that you remove all debris that you may have left behind and be sure that there are no brushes or rods still hanging down inside.
