The Log Rack
Chimney Sweep
|
Selecting the Right Chimney Sweep
In most states chimney sweeps are not regulated and require no license or training. The primary job of
a chimney sweep is to inspect the chimney and sweep it. Chimney sweeps are fire prevention
specialists that you trust with your family's safety. Opening a chimney sweep business requires little
investment and anyone can proclaim to be a chimney sweep. Professional training and certification for
chimney sweeps is available through the Chimney Safety Institute of America. Many states are starting
to require certification for chimney sweeps.
|
Why is it Important to Hire A Professional Chimney Sweep?
There is more to cleaning a chimney than just sweeping it. A through safety inspection of your chimney
checking for cracks in flue tiles. A professional chimney sweep will most often use a video camera to
inspect your chimney and point out any possible hazards. A trained chimney sweep should also inspect
and clean your furnaces flue and also check your dryer vents. Having your furnace and dryer vents is
just as important as cleaning you chimney. Clogged or leaky furnace vents can lead to carbon
monoxide from entering your home. Many fires are caused by blocked dryer vents.
|
What should I expect from a Chimney Sweep?
Besides just sweeping the soot from your chimney a good sweep should have working knowledge of
your fireplace. If there is excess build up of creosote in your chimney he should recommend types of
firewood to use, how to burn your fireplace properly and where to find good firewood. If you have a
wood stove or insert he should know the proper installation if the stove. When a chimney sweep cleans
a fireplace with an insert he basically has to remove the stove clean behind it and re-install it properly
and according to local and Federal codes. When cleaning a freestanding wood stove all pipes and pie
joints should be inspected.
|
How Often Should I Have My Chimney Cleaned?
At least once a year for a good cleaning. If you burn often during the cold months it is suggested to
inspect it during the burning season. Spring is the most common time of the year to have your chimney
cleaned but it should also be inspected in fall before you start burning for any blockages, birds nests,
leaves etc. Cleaning your chimney in the spring will help to reduce the smoke/creosote smell from
entering your home in the wet and humid months.
|
Can I Clean My Own Chimney?
Yes any homeowner can clean his own chimney. Like anything you do you need the proper tools.
Finding the right chimney brush is very important. You must select the right size brush fro your
chimney. Measure the interior dimensions of your flue and select the exact size. If a brush is too large it
can get stuck and cleaning will be a lot harder trying to push it though the flue. If the brush is too large
it can be trimmed with tin snips to the proper size. If the brush is under sized you won't get the surface
contact needed to clean the chimney. The chimney brush is sized properly to your dimensions. The
brush should be a little snug with the flue tiles. The best way to clean your chimney is with flexible
fiberglass rods attached to the brush. Clean your chimney from the top by pushing the brush down
about 1 ft then letting go of the rod allowing it to spring back, continue this process down the length of
the chimney. This springing action allow the brush to scrape the creosote off the flue tiles.
|
Email Us
|
