Your chimney and fireplace require regular cleaning and maintenance to work correctly.
Being a homeowner comes with a lot of maintenance projects. From home improvements to daily upkeep, there’s likely a lot on your mind when it comes to your home. However, the last thing you may think of is one of the most important: your chimney. Your chimney and fireplace require regular cleaning and maintenance to work correctly. Keeping your chimney clean is the best way to prevent chimney fires. Here are a few signs that it’s time to call a chimney sweep to clean your chimney.
Stange Odors
If you notice a strong odor coming from your chimney, it’s a clear sign it’s time to schedule a chimney sweep. Strong smells can be caused by creosote, a sticky tar-like substance that is extremely dangerous when left unattended. If the scent is acidic or bitter, creosote buildup may be to blame. Another cause of that smell is trapped debris or the presence of animals or pests. Animals can find their way into your chimney when you don’t have a chimney cap. They then make their nest or block the exit of smoke and gases. These factors all lead to unpleasant odors. A chimney sweep is the best way to remove the source of the smell.
Changing Seasons
If you have not used your fireplace in a while, leaves, debris, or animals may have gotten stuck in your chimney while you weren’t using it. Mildew buildup, dry leaves, and dead animals can reduce the quality of your fires and pose a hazard if they block the natural flow of air through your fireplace and chimney. A change in the season increases the risk because animals often search for shelters, and the weather brings more debris and leaves. If you hear any sounds from inside or near your fireplace, you should hire a chimney professional to inspect your fireplace to rule out the presence of animal nests.
Weak Fires
If you were struggling to start a fire in your fireplace the last time it was cold, it might be because your chimney is clogged or there is a problem with the fireplace damper. Both these issues can prevent a fire from receiving a sufficient oxygen supply to burn correctly. Chimney dampers should be open when the fireplace is lit and closed otherwise. If your damper doesn’t fully open or close, it can significantly decrease fire quality. A chimney sweep will be able to identify the source of this issue.
Call the Experts at Champion Chimneys for a Chimney Inspection Today!
Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has served customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). Courteous service is our trademark, and our crews arrive on time in uniform, driving fully equipped trucks. We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.