Knowing when to hire a chimney sweep is an important factor in owning a chimney.
We suggest hiring a chimney sweep once a year, regardless of how often you use your fireplace. When you call Champion Chimneys, we will ensure your chimney has proper clearances, is structurally sound, and is free from creosote buildup. Knowing when to hire a chimney sweep is an important factor in owning a chimney. Do you recognize the signs that you need to hire a chimney sweep? Here are a few of the top indicators.
Your Fires Burn Out Quickly
The sole purpose of a fireplace is to keep a home warm. If you notice that fires won’t start or they don’t burn for long, then this could definitely be a red flag that something isn’t quite right. When there is a problem with the chimney shaft, proper airflow is prevented. Last week, we discussed how drafting issues are problematic. However, they are more than avoidable when you schedule a yearly inspection.
You Smell An Unpleasant Odor
The smell of burning shouldn’t be foul. Many people find this smell pleasant and comforting, especially if they went camping in their formative years. If you notice an unpleasant odor, it should cause some alarm. This means that the chimney’s updraft system may not be functioning as it should. Sometimes, when this happens, it could also alert you that other odorless and harmful gases are inside your house.
You See Soot or Creosote Buildup
Grease or creosote buildup is harmful. It takes months for this kind of accumulation to happen, which is why hiring a chimney sweep can eliminate the buildup. When creosote begins to burn, it can lead to a chimney fire. Also, creosote has chemicals in it that are harmful to your respiratory system. We can clean out your chimney to ensure your safety. Your safety is what genuinely matters to us.
You Hear Animals Inside of Your Chimney
If you hear any fluttering or scurrying noises, then this could mean that an animal is trying to find a home inside of your chimney. Birds often try to nest inside of a chimney and bring materials into the chimney that could cause a fire.
Hiring a chimney sweep will help your chimney, you, your family, and your home in many ways. If you want to inquire about the services we offer, give us a call.
Call the Experts at Champion Chimneys for Chimney Cleaning 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.