Even if you only use your fireplace or wood burning stove periodically, the chimney should still be kept clean. As cleaning the chimney rids it of soot and creosote it not only improves performance when you do use it, it rids your home of unpleasant odors. An experienced chimney sweep in Chicago can provide you with information and feedback on the function and performance of your fireplace or stove. Regardless of how often you use your wood burning fireplace or cast iron stove it is always a good idea to schedule a chimney sweep in the fall.
What to expect:
Chimney sweeps use an array of specialized equipment to clean the inside of the chimney and flue. Over time the chimney will load with debris, perhaps from nesting birds or squirrels as well as creosote, ash and soot.
The tools that are employed are stiff wire brushes fitted to long handles. The process can start at the top and work down or start in the flue and work up. Either way, the chimney sweep will lay down protective cloth and use high powered vacuum cleaners to control the dirt, dust and debris that will fall from the lining. The goal of the chimney sweep is to scrape the built up material from the interior of the chimney and remove it.
The importance of a clean chimney:
A chimney can be dangerous if not working properly. Burning wood gives of carbon monoxide, if the chimney is not drawing properly there is the possibility of noxious gases escaping into the room. Creosote, a sticky material that comes from burning wood, adheres to the inside of the chimney and flue; creosote is flammable and if allowed to build up can burst into flame with no warning.
When you hire a chimney sweep in Chicago all you really have to do in preparation for his visit is ensure the fireplace is accessible and your furniture is protected and moved out of the way.
It is extremely important to keep the chimney in your home clean and free of debris.
