Schedule Your Fall Chimney Sweeping and Inspection

Fall is the busiest time of year for chimney sweeps; with so many homeowners preparing to use their fireplaces at once, it can be difficult to get appointments at convenient times and waits can stretch from days to weeks. This year, don’t wait to schedule your fall fireplace maintenance; schedule your appointment now and beat the rush!

The importance of annual chimney sweepings

Like the other major appliances in your home, fireplaces need regular care, upkeep, and maintenance in order to burn safely and efficiently. Annual chimney maintenance such as sweepings and inspections are the best way to ensure your entire chimney system remains in good condition season after season.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America, or CSIA, recommends all homeowners have their chimneys swept at least once per year. Whether you use your fireplace every day during the fall and winter or only a few times each year, an annual sweeping removes ash, soot, debris, and highly flammable creosote.

If you use your fireplace as a primary heat source, it may need to be swept more than once per season. Chimneys should be swept any time there is at least 1/8th of an inch of buildup; this amount of sooty buildup typically occurs after one full cord of wood is burned. If you burn more than one cord of wood each burning season, a second mid-winter sweeping can keep your fireplace burning safely and efficiently.

Chimney inspections identify potential issues

In addition to regular sweepings, chimney inspections are a way to protect your fireplace system by preventing long term damage.

“A chimney inspection is like an annual dental check-up,” says Ashley Eldridge, Director of Education for the CSIA. “It’s preventative maintenance that helps minimize potential hazards.”

Chimney sweeps use inspections as a way to identify areas of deterioration when it is still minor. Doing this allows repairs to be made before major damage or performance problems arise. In addition, chimney inspections are an important diagnostic tool when identifying the cause of long term chimney issues such as leaks or improper drafting.
Schedule your chimney sweeping and inspection today!

Before using your fireplace for the first time this fall, be sure to schedule a chimney sweeping and inspection. By scheduling this regular maintenance early you can help avoid delays as well as get an appointment that is more convenient to your schedule.

Likewise, having the chimney swept and inspected before using the fireplace for the first time ensures there is no buildup or damage that could affect fall chimney performance. Debris, leaks, or animal entry may have gone unnoticed during the summer while the fireplace is not in use; having it swept and inspected can help guarantee there are no blockages or other problems in the chimney.

Don’t delay on scheduling your fall chimney maintenance; have your fireplace inspected and swept early to avoid the rush and ensure it is safe and ready to use when the first cold snap arrives. To schedule your fall maintenance, contact the certified professionals at ChimneyTEK today!