Regular sweeps will protect your home from dangerous carbon monoxide and smoke. Not only will your chimney be cleaner, but they can educate you on the dangers of creosote buildup. If you consider having your chimney cleaned, it is best to contact a chimney service as soon as possible. A service will also help remove any clogs accumulated in your chimney.
Regular chimney sweeps can help reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning:
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, and it can leak into your home through fuel-burning appliances. Regular chimney sweeps and inspections can prevent the buildup of carbon monoxide, which can be fatal. Regular chimney sweeps will increase the efficiency of your fireplace and stove, but they can also make your home smell less smoky.
While gas and oil-burning appliances don’t emit toxic gases, chimney sweeping is vital to keep them functioning correctly. These chimneys can become blocked by thick creosote, preventing the free passage of carbon monoxide and other dangerous gases. Therefore, it’s important to have a professional sweep your chimney every year or at least once a decade.
They can educate you about the dangers of creosote buildup:
The dangers of creosote can be measured by examining the buildup of the substance in your chimney. As temperatures change, the solid creosote gets thicker and harder. Eventually, this layer can block your chimney’s airflow. It is hazardous to your health because it contains ash and caustic oils. As it accumulates, it can cause a burning sensation and may make your eyes sensitive to light.
While most homeowners assume that the buildup in their chimney is just extra ash or soot, it’s likely dangerous creosote. Unfortunately, even experienced homeowners may not know what creosote is or what it can do to your chimney. Fortunately, an experienced chimney service can educate you on the dangers of creosote buildup and give you the information you need to avoid it.
They can remove clogged chimneys:
A clogged chimney can be dangerous and difficult to clean. It begins with a loud snap, progresses to a rumbling sound, and a cloud of black, oily creosote rains down the firebox. A chimney fire starts like an explosion, and the thermal expansion of the building’s walls can cause the flue to crack and shoot flames into the house. Firefighters must shoot water down the chimney to put out the fire, but the house itself is flooded.
Clogged chimneys can also cause a foul smell. Smoke can escape through the chimney, but the chimney may be blocked entirely. Smoke can also accumulate inside a clogged chimney, and a clogged chimney can lead to bigger problems such as back puffing your fireplace. A professional chimney service can inspect the chimney to ensure that it is in good working order. Call a chimney service to remove the blockage if the odor is excessive.