How often should my chimney be cleaned?
A chimney should be cleaned and inspected once a year in order to remove potential fire hazards including build up and obstructions and to insure that your chimney is safe to use.
When is the best time of year to have my chimney cleaned?
It is best to have your chimney cleaned once you have finished using it for the winter season, usually during the months of March, April, or May. If you believe chimney swifts use your chimney for nesting, it is best to have your chimney cleaned in early March, before they begin their migration.
Why should I have my chimney cleaned?
Between 1999 and 2002 the National Fire Protection Association reported an annual average of nearly 54,000 residential fires in the United States. These fires resulted in 320 deaths, nearly 1,300 injuries, and over $637 million in property damage. Chimney fires can be a direct result of failing to perform routine maintenance, such as chimney cleanings and inspections. Cleaning your chimney is one way to reduce the likelihood of a chimney fire and it can also help prevent the odors frequently emitted by a dirty chimney.
How often should I have my chimney cleaned?
The
National Fire Protection Association
recommends yearly inspections and cleanings as needed. If you are burning wood, it is best to have your chimney cleaned once for every cord of wood burned (Cord = 4'x4'x8').
Exactly what does a chimney sweep do? A sweep will
clean your chimney
and can also provide three levels of inspection:
Level 1: If you have not made any changes to your appliances, this will most likely be the inspection performed. The inspector will examine the readily accessible parts of the chimney exterior and interior, as well as parts of the appliance and chimney connection. During the inspection, the inspector will be checking the condition of the chimney structure and flue and verifying that the chimney is free of obstruction and combustible deposits.
Level 2: When changes are made to the system, this inspection is required. Examples of changes include a new fuel source, altered flues (ex. Relining), or the replacement or addition of an appliance of a dissimilar type, input rating or efficiency. This inspection is also required if a property is transferred or sold or if an external event or operation malfunction has occurred which has most likely caused damage to the chimney. A level 2 inspection includes everything done during a Level 1 inspection with the addition of accessible portions of the chimney exterior and interior including attics, crawl spaces, and basements. Level 2 inspections require no removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building and no special tools are required to open doors, panels or coverings. The inspection will include a visual inspection performed using video scanning to observe the internal conditions of the chimney.
Level 3: When, after completing a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection, there is indication of a possible hidden hazard requiring special tools to provide access to concealed areas; it is recommended that a Level 3 inspection is performed. A level 3 inspection may require removal or destruction of permanently attached portions of the chimney or building structure. A Level 3 inspection includes all steps performed during a Level 1 and Level 2 inspection as well as the removal of certain components (caps, crowns, interior chimney wall, etc) if necessary to gain access to areas for inspection.
What is creosote?
Creosote is a dark brown or black flammable tar which builds up in a chimney as a result of burning a variety of fuels. Because of its flammable nature, creosote can be dangerous if left untreated. It is important to have your chimney cleaned in order to remove the build-up and protect your home from chimney fires.
How long will a chimney cleaning take?
A chimney cleaning usually requires approximately an hour to complete; however, this will vary depending on the condition of the chimney.
Will there be a mess left behind after I have my chimney cleaned?
Eurotech Chimney follows several procedures to ensure your home is left clean following a chimney cleaning.
- Clean drop cloths will be placed on the floor to insure against tracking.
- To make sure no soot, dust, or dirt enters your home, a cover will be erected to seal the front of your fireplace before sweeping.
- Your flue, smoke chamber, smoke shelf, and the firebox will be brushed completely before vacuuming.
- After sweeping, the workplace will be thoroughly cleaned by our staff and all materials removed from your premises.
- You shall receive a written report detailing the completion of the process and any further maintenance recommended.
Do you need to come inside my home in order to clean my chimney?
To provide a thorough cleaning, our workers will need to get inside your home. Depending on your chimney, the crew may also need to get on the roof.
Does it really matter which chimney company I decide to use?
Yes! Because the chimney service trade is not regulated and most states do not require chimney sweeps to be licensed, virtually anyone can enter the chimney service field. Here at Eurotech Chimney, we take pride in the training and skills provided to our employees. Our company has
F.I.R.E Certified Inspectors
,
NCI Carbon Monoxide Certified Inspectors
,
CSIA certified sweeps
, and
NFI Certified Gas specialists
, meaning we are members of all national certification programs for the chimney service industry. At Eurotech Chimney, we have a commitment to educating all of our staff to the highest industry standards. We provide a 3 year apprenticeship to all of our service techs to ensure they are able to perform chimney work to the high level of standards required by Eurotech Chimney.