Each and every year thousands of fires occur in homes with chimneys. These accidents happen because of improper chimney cleaning and maintenance. As a homeowner who uses their chimney, no matter how little or how often, it is a must to be as knowledgeable as possible regarding the maintenance of chimneys. All chimneys should be inspected annually and have cleanings done twice a year. Here are five tips for maintaining your chimney:
- Use the Correct Wood - Only well-seasoned wood should be used in your fireplace during the winter months. Once the wood is cut, it should be used between 6-12 months. The wood you use for your fireplace should always be stored in a raised location until it is ready to be used. Treated woods and flammable fluids can cause severe chimney problems.
- Clean the Hearth - The top of your chimney must be cleaned often-much more often than the normal annual cleaning your chimney should receive. The hearth of the chimney holds materials that can cause fires which can spread throughout your house. Safely remove any branches or debris from all areas 15 feet from the chimney. The best way to prevent this accumulation is installing a chimney cap, which our chimney specialists can do.
- Remove the Ashes - Once the fire burns out, safely remove the ashes from the fireplace after each time the fireplace is used. The debris should then be tossed in a metal bucket so that the embers can completely burn out.
- Better Equipment - If you have a fireplace/chimney system that was built before 1992, it needs an upgrade immediately. Upgraded units are in fact pricey, but they help homeowners save a ton of money every year due to their increased efficiency. Newer units are also easier to clean which is an added benefit.
- Extra Tips - Don't start a fire before you clean the chimney. Hire a professional chimney sweeper annually. If your chimney is old either have it repaired and upgraded or hire a sweeper more frequently.