Now Is The Perfect Time To Get Your Chimney Swept
With the hot months of summer currently in full swing, using a fireplace is often the furthest thing from most homeowner’s minds. However, even though you aren’t using it, summer is the perfect time of year to get your chimney swept!
Because many people put off chimney maintenance until the temperatures drop, fall is our busiest time of year. Beat the rush this year by having your chimney swept this summer! Not only will this help you get your chimney swept faster, but it also gets your chimney maintenance out of the way for when you’re ready to use your fireplace again.
Why does my chimney need to be swept?
There are a number of reasons that your chimney needs to be swept. First, clean chimneys are safer to use. In unswept chimneys, flammable creosote can buildup and lead to chimney fires. Next, swept chimneys burn more efficiently as air and smoke are able to freely and easily pass through the chimney system. Lastly, a clean chimney can impact your homes air quality. The presence of creosote, soot, ash, or other debris in the chimney can cause odors that can negatively impact air quality in your home, especially for those with breathing issues such as asthma.
Whether you use your fireplace a few times per year or as a primary heat source, regular chimney maintenance is an important part of keeping your fireplace running safely and efficiently. Because of this, it is important to have your chimney swept each year.
Myths about having your chimney swept
Homeowners often have a number of misconceptions about chimney sweepings. Below are some of the most common myths about having your chimney swept.
- Myth #1: If I don’t regularly use my chimney, I don’t need to have it swept every year. Many homeowners believe that only those who use their fireplaces as a primary heat source need to have their chimney swept every year. However, annual chimney sweepings and inspections are recommended for all fireplace owners by the Chimney Safety Institute of America. In addition to keeping your chimney clean, a yearly chimney sweeping can help identify any change in condition to your fireplace or chimney such as signs of damage or decay.
- Myth #2: I will be able to tell when my chimney needs to be swept. Oftentimes, by the time your chimney starts showing signs that it needs to be cleaned major damage has already occurred. Creosote buildup, for example, can occur for years before chimney performance is affected; with excess creosote, however, you are at greater risk of chimney fire.
- Myth #3: Chimney cleaning logs do the same thing as a chimney sweep. Chimney cleaning logs are marketed as an alternative to chimney sweepings. While they may loosen soot buildup, these products are no replacement for a professional chimney sweep. A certified chimney sweep is a highly trained professional who can not only thoroughly clean your chimney, but can also ensure that there is no damage or deterioration.
Now is the perfect time of year to get your chimney swept! This year, but the fall rush by having your chimney swept now. Contact Olde Towne Chimney Sweeps today to schedule your chimney sweep appointment!