How often do I need my chimney swept?
All working systems should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year
no matter what they are venting. Systems venting wood burning
appliances or stoves need to be cleaned more frequently as they create a
greater creosote build-up.
How do I know if I need to have my system cleaned?
Look for these signs
What is involved in a cleaning?
The first thing a sweep will do is check the appliance or stove and
prepare for the cleaning by putting down drop clothes or protective
covers. This will keep your home clean during the cleaning process.
He should then inspect the condition of the exterior and interior of the system.
If no repairs are needed he will sweep the system clean of creosote build-up. He should then clean the appliance or stove from any creosote that may have fallen down the chimney during the cleaning process.
Water leaks into my chimney, what can I do?
If the water is coming in from the top of the system, you can reseal the crown with Crown Sealer
Many times installing a flue cap will solve a water
problem. If you do not have a flue cap, you may have an opening in the
chimney that is 12" x 12" that is wide open to water entering the
chimney.
Smoke keeps filling the room, what is causing this?
There can be many factors that can contribute to this problem, ranging
from air pressure to cold flue temperatures. An experienced professional
can identify the problem and recommend a solution. Read More
What about chimney fires
By definition these fires are the burning of soot and creosote that has
accumulated in a connector pipe or chimney. These fires can be the
result of improper maintenance and operations of a heating system.
These fires are extremely dangerous even though they vary in intensity and duration. The temperatures in the flue during a chimney fire can often exceed 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. You can watch the top of the venting system for flames that can leap out or even through the cracks in the system walls. Flames could ignite roofs and any other parts of the house.
These fires can damage liners, crack venting system walls and damage factory built metal venting systems. Chimney fires can burn explosively. Homeowners report hearing a loud rumble or roar that sounds like an airplane, glowing or red-hot connectors, vibrating connectors and/or stove.
Smoke and odors noticeable in adjoining rooms or in the attic are signs of a fire inside your venting system.
Many homeowners ask sweeps what should be done if they experience a fire in the venting system.
Chimney fires don't have to happen
Go to top of Chimney
Go to Chimney Liner Central.com Home: The DIY Chimney Liner Resource