When (and How Often) Should You Have Your Chimney Swept?

You might think that fall is the best time for chimney cleaning, but there are some key factors you have to consider as to when (and how often) it should be done. Nevertheless, this important home maintenance task is necessary to prevent it from becoming a hazard when the time comes you have to use your fireplace for warmth. 

How Often Should You Sweep Your Chimney?

If your fireplace uses wood or coal, then cleaning your chimney should be done every quarter. These materials create soot, which can easily build up inside the flue and fireplace. However, if you use smokeless fuel, chimney cleaning can be done at least once a year. The same can be said for gas- and oil-powered fireplaces.

Signs That You Need to Clean Your Chimney

With the heating season already upon us, one of your home maintenance tasks this fall is to have your chimney cleaned. Aside from the general guidelines outlined above, the following are signs telling you to do so promptly:

• Fireplace surrounds are turning black. Blackened or cloudy fireplace surrounds are a result of soot and other particles building up from within. It is often caused by fuel in the fireplace not burning properly or a lack of ventilation.
• Strong smell coming from the fireplace. In addition to soot or creosote buildup, a strong odor emanating from the fireplace can also be due to animal obstructions or moisture entering the chimney flue. Apart from a chimney sweep, you may also have to repair a few damaged components of your chimney and fireplace.
• Animals nesting in your chimney. Droppings or carcasses of small animals indicate the need to have your chimney cleaned thoroughly. This way, you won’t have to worry about airflow issues.

Keep your family safe and warm this fall and winter with the help of Chimney Doctors. We provide a good chimney sweep as well as a comprehensive maintenance of your fireplace and flue. Call us now at (518) 882-5009, or fill out our contact form to request an appointment. We serve homeowners in and around Saratoga Springs, NY.