If you live in Lebanon or anywhere else in our service area you might wonder how often you should scheduling a chimney sweeping or cleaning. It’s a question that many homeowners have, but the answer may vary depending on several factors. A good rule of thumb, though?
Per the guidelines of the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a chimney should be inspected and swept once a year, before the homeowner kicks off their burning season.
Why Is Chimney Sweeping Important?
When you burn wood in your fireplace, wood stove, or furnace, it produces soot or creosote, a combustible and sticky substance that can build up in your chimney. Over time, this creosote can ignite and cause a dangerous chimney fire. Chimney sweeping removes this soot or creosote buildup and prevents blockages or fires from starting.
In addition, no matter what type of fuel you burn, certain byproducts will buildup in your flue, all of which can cause damage or create blockages. Even if you don’t use your fireplace often (or at all) buildup can occur in the form of outside debris, animal nests, or animals themselves – all of which can cause damage and hurt the value of your home.
Factors That Affect How Often You Should Have Your Chimney Swept
When it comes to figuring out when or how often to scheduling your chimney sweeping (also called chimney cleaning), there are several factors that impact how often you should have this done. Yes, once a year is always the standard, but you may need to invest in additional sweepings based on the following:
- How Often You Use Your System: The more you use your fireplace, wood stove, or furnace the more byproducts can build up. Depending on how often you use it, you may need to have cleanings done more often.
- The Type of Fuel You Burn: Softer woods, like pine, produce more creosote than hardwoods, such as oak. In addition, unseasoned wood will produce more creosote than wood that is properly dried out.
- The Age of Your Chimney: The older your chimney is, the more likely it is to have structural problems that can lead to more creosote build up.
How to Choose the Right Chimney Service Company
Ok, so now you know you need to have your chimney cleaned. …but who do you call to do it? …and how do you choose the right company?
Bottom line is that you want a reputable company that has the experience, knowledge, and expertise to get the job done right, the first time. Fortunately for you, Highpoint Chimney Services meets all of these requirements. When you choose Highpoint, you can rest assured we check the following boxes:
- Certifications: We have over 20 years of industry experience, and our techs are certified with the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), an industry leader when it comes to education. We’re also members of both the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) and the Community Association Institution (CAI).
- Insurance: You definitely want to choose a company that is fully insured, like we are. This protects you in case of accidents or damage to your property while any work is being done.
- Positive Reviews: Our reviews speak for themselves. Our customers speak volumes about the quality of our work, as well as our professionalism and superior customer service.
Chimney Sweep FAQs
Is chimney sweeping messy?
Chimney sweeping can be messy, but our professional staff will make sure they leave your home mess-free by using tarps, high-powered vacuums, and all of the appropriate tools.
Can I sweep my own chimney?
We highly recommend you don’t attempt this. Some things are better left to professionals and chimney cleaning is one of those. Sweeping your own flue risks health issues, a messy home, and chimney damage. Not to mention, it’s all too easy to miss areas when you aren’t properly trained, which would make all that hard work null and void.
How long does chimney sweeping take?
The time it takes to clean your chimney depends on several factors, like the appliance being serviced and the size and condition of the chimney. On average, your looking at about one-and-a-half to two hours.
What should I do to prepare for chimney sweeping?
Before your chimney technician arrives, clear the area around your fireplace and remove any ash or debris. This will make it easier for the chimney tech to access your chimney system.
In addition, stop using your appliance at least 24 hours before the appointment. This protects our techs from potential burns and injuries.
Can chimney sweeping help improve the efficiency of my heating system?
Yes, chimney sweeping is a great way to improve the efficiency of your fireplace, wood stove, or furnace. Cleaning or sweeping is the best way to remove creosote or soot buildup that can restrict airflow.
Schedule With Us Today
So, have we convinced you yet about how important it is to get your chimney cleaned? We sure hope so. But, if not, give our awesome staff at Highpoint Chimney Services a call at 908-864-4114, or schedule an appointment online. Our expert crew is happy to answer any questions you still have and get you on our schedule so we can take care of your chimney needs!
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